EV Fleet Charging

Project Overview

Client: Amey Highways, in partnership with Staffordshire County Council
Sector: Highways Maintenance and Infrastructure
Installation: 2 x 22kW Ratio EV io7 single-socket pedestal chargers
Location: Staffordshire
Charge Point Management System: EVC Connect
Completion Time: 3–4 weeks from contract approval
Technology: Fully load-balanced system for optimal power use

Amey Highways, a global leader in infrastructure services, manages everything from bridge design to road maintenance across the UK and beyond. Working with Staffordshire County Council, the team has been at the forefront of the UK’s push toward zero-emission transport, actively exceeding government ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mandates.

However, the road to electrification wasn’t straightforward. Like many fleet operators, Amey initially relied on slow three-pin charging, which limited operational flexibility and created range anxiety among drivers. With a growing electric fleet and the need for more reliable, data-driven charging infrastructure, Amey partnered with EVC Solutions to deliver a smarter, future-proof EV charging solution.

The Challenge

Amey faced three key challenges:

  1. Limited charging capacity – Existing infrastructure offered only slow charging via domestic-grade sockets. Vehicles often required overnight charging and caused operational delays.
  2. Range and downtime issues – Supervisors and technicians often travel across large areas of Staffordshire. With a 120-mile range on some fleet vehicles, time spent waiting to charge on public networks became a major productivity loss.
  3. Lack of visibility and control – Without a proper back-office system, Amey had no insight into who was charging, how long vehicles were plugged in, or how efficiently chargers were being used.

Amey and Staffordshire County Council needed a partner who could not only install chargers but also manage the end-to-end process, from initial survey and design through to installation, management, and ongoing support.

The EVC Solution

EVC Solutions conducted a full site survey and identified that the original plan for 7kW chargers would severely limit operational efficiency. Using advanced load balancing (EVC Load Management), the EVC team re-engineered the design to safely deliver two 22kW Ratio EV io7 pedestal chargers, without overloading the site’s electrical capacity.

The result: faster, smarter charging that met both current fleet requirements and future scalability goals.

The installation was completed within three to four weeks of contract approval, with minimal disruption to site operations. EVC Connect, EVC’s intelligent charge point management platform, was deployed to provide real-time visibility, remote monitoring, and data reporting across the charging network.

EVC Solutions 22kW Ratio EV io7 pedestal chargers installed for Amey Highways in Staffordshire, supporting fleet electrification.
EVC Solutions delivered a load-balanced 22kW EV charging installation for Amey Highways, improving fleet performance and visibility.
EVC Solutions 22kW Ratio EV io7 pedestal chargers installed for Amey Highways in Staffordshire, supporting fleet electrification.
EVC Solutions delivered a load-balanced 22kW EV charging installation for Amey Highways, improving fleet performance and visibility.

The Results

1. Operational Efficiency

Charging times have been reduced dramatically. Vehicles can now be recharged quickly during normal work hours, often while staff complete admin tasks, cutting downtime and improving fleet utilisation.

“Everything is so much better, so much quicker. It’s changed the operational way we work dramatically.”
Neil Thorneycroft, Transport Manager, Amey Highways

2. Full Visibility and Control

With EVC Connect, Amey now has complete oversight of its EV charging infrastructure. The system tracks utilisation, energy usage, and charging behaviour in real time, allowing the team to optimise operations and plan for future expansion.

“We can see exactly who’s charging, when, and for how long. We’ve never had that level of visibility before.”
Neil Thorneycroft

3. Seamless User Experience

Each driver now has an RFID card linked to their vehicle. The process is simple: tap, plug, go. The system integrates smoothly with Amey’s operational processes, providing both convenience for drivers and robust data for management.

4. Smarter Energy Management

By introducing load balancing, EVC Solutions enabled Amey to upgrade to higher-capacity chargers without costly infrastructure reinforcement. This ensures faster charging and better energy efficiency, future-proofing the depot for continued EV growth.

“The original survey said we could only have 7kW chargers. EVC came in, did their own survey, and showed us how to safely upgrade to 22kW. That’s made a huge difference.”
Neil Thorneycroft

5. Cost and Carbon Savings

Amey’s business case now demonstrates clear financial and environmental returns. The company can track cost savings per mile versus diesel vehicles and has clear evidence of progress toward its sustainability goals.

“After a certain mileage, you’re literally saving money compared to diesel. The numbers speak for themselves.”
Neil Thorneycroft

The Outcome

Since installation, Amey’s depot has been operating efficiently, with positive feedback from staff and measurable improvements in uptime, cost control, and sustainability reporting. The system’s scalability and robust management features have positioned Amey and Staffordshire County Council to confidently expand their electric fleet in the months ahead.

“The team are over the moon. It’s been so smooth from start to finish, and now we’re ready to order more EVs.”
Neil Thorneycroft

EVC Solutions: Your Partner in Fleet Electrification

EVC Solutions delivers end-to-end EV infrastructure for businesses and local authorities, from consultation and survey through to design, installation, management, and ongoing support. Our expertise ensures your EV investment is seamless, reliable, and future-proof.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

Why the UK’s New EV Pay-Per-Mile Tax Risks Slowing the Fleet Transition

A New Tax, and New Uncertainty: The UK Government has confirmed plans to introduce a new 'VED+' pay-per-mile tax for electric vehicles from April 2028, charging drivers around 3 pence per mile.

Framed as a 'fairness' measure, it’s already attracting widespread criticism from across the fleet, leasing, and automotive sectors.

Industry bodies such as the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) argue that this move comes “at entirely the wrong time”, just as the UK is working to accelerate zero-emission adoption.

The Industry Reaction

Leaders from Europcar, Novuna, Autotrader, and Close Brothers Motor Finance have all warned that this new charge could deter businesses and drivers from making the switch to electric, at a time when upfront costs and charging access already remain barriers.

Jon Lawes of Novuna Vehicle Solutions said it plainly:

“The EV transition remains fragile and needs support, not new burdens.”

For a fleet covering 20,000 miles annually, the new levy could add £600 to yearly running costs, a cost that many operators cannot easily absorb.

Why This Matters for Businesses

While fiscal policy evolves, the real risk is hesitation. Many fleet operators are already delaying procurement decisions due to uncertainty over future costs.

But inaction carries its own risks: missing ZEV compliance targets, higher long-term fuel costs, and falling behind competitors that have already gone electric.

Our View at EVC Solutions

At EVC Solutions, we understand that funding models and taxes will change. What doesn’t change is the long-term case for electrification: lower total cost of ownership, stronger sustainability credentials, and compliance with emerging corporate ESG standards.

Our message to fleet and facilities managers is simple:

Don’t let policy uncertainty pause your progress.

Future-ready infrastructure, installed and supported by experts, ensures your investment continues to deliver, no matter how regulations evolve.

The EVC Process

We make the transition clear and controlled:

  1. Consultation – Understanding your fleet and business needs.
  2. Survey – Assessing grid capacity and site requirements.
  3. Design – Creating a tailored infrastructure plan.
  4. Installation – Delivered with precision and minimal disruption.
  5. Management & Support – Ongoing optimisation and reliability.

Stay Ahead of Policy. Future-Proof Your Fleet.

The pay-per-mile proposal may slow some, but the most forward-thinking businesses will keep moving.
With EVC Solutions as your partner, the road to zero emissions remains clear, strategic, and achievable.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

UK Lithium Milestone Strengthens EV Supply Chain and Energy Security

The UK has taken a major step toward securing its place in the global electric vehicle supply chain, as Cornish Lithium becomes the first company to mine and refine lithium hydroxide on British soil.

From its Trelavour Demonstration Plant near St Austell, Cornish Lithium has successfully produced lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM), the refined form of lithium essential for EV batteries, energy storage systems, and modern electronics.

This achievement represents the first end-to-end lithium refining process in the UK, transforming a former china clay quarry into a state-of-the-art industrial site. With Cornwall holding Europe’s largest lithium deposits, it’s estimated the region could supply over 50% of all lithium required for UK EV production by 2030.

Cornish Lithium’s work, backed by Innovate UK’s Automotive Transformation Fund, showcases the UK’s capability to create a resilient and responsible critical minerals supply chain, vital for energy security and national economic growth.

EVC Solutions Director Nigel Ryan commented on the announcement:

“This is very exciting news and adds further to the technological value created for ‘UK plc’; energy and materials security and many other important elements supporting the transition from ICE to BEV. Well done to the folks in Cornwall, working hard to make this critical investment in the UK Lithium future, just super news.”

At EVC Solutions, we see this as a turning point for the UK’s EV transition. Secure access to key materials like lithium will help stabilise battery costs, accelerate infrastructure rollout, and ensure businesses can invest in EV fleets and charging infrastructure with confidence.

It’s another reminder that the UK’s electric future isn’t just possible - it’s already being built.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

Beyond the Trend: Why EV Adoption Is Simply Better Business

For years, conversations around electric vehicles have sounded futuristic, even idealistic.
But that narrative is outdated.

Across the UK, a quiet shift has taken hold in boardrooms, fleet depots, and hotel car parks. Businesses are no longer asking if they should go electric, but how fast they can make it happen.

Because EV adoption isn’t a trend anymore. It’s an upgrade.

The Business Case Has Flipped

Fleet managers, hospitality operators, and property developers aren’t moving to EVs to “go green” or chase headlines. They’re doing it because it’s the only model that scales sustainably, financially, operationally, and reputationally.

Businesses that have already made the switch know: once you’ve lived in the world of clean mobility, it’s hard to imagine ever going back to fumes and friction.

From Compliance to Competitive Advantage

What started as a sustainability target has become a competitive differentiator.

Fleet operators are using EV transition to reduce downtime and improve reliability. Hotels and leisure operators are attracting higher-value guests by offering EV charging as a premium service. Developers are embedding charging infrastructure early to future-proof assets and meet planning requirements with ease.

And as regulation tightens, from the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate to expanding Clean Air Zones, those ahead of the curve will find themselves with both compliance and commercial advantage.

Simply put: the companies that act now will own the space later.

Why EVC Solutions Exists

At EVC Solutions, we make the transition to EVs simple, strategic, and sustainable.

We guide every client through a clear, five-step journey:

  1. Consultation – understanding your goals and operations
  2. Survey – assessing your site, grid capacity, and opportunities
  3. Design – creating a bespoke infrastructure plan that scales
  4. Installation – delivering safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption
  5. Management & Support – monitoring, optimising, and maintaining long-term reliability

It’s not just about installing charge points. It’s about giving you the confidence that your investment is future-proof, technically, financially, and reputationally.

A Smarter Standard

Transitioning to EVs isn’t about chasing innovation for its own sake.
It’s about making business simpler, cleaner, and smarter.

The companies moving first aren’t experimental. They’re pragmatic.
They’ve seen the data, tested the technology, and understood that sustainability and profitability are no longer opposites, they’re the same path.

At EVC Solutions, we help you walk it with confidence.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

EV Transition Reaches a Tipping Point: Falling Costs, Stronger Incentives, and Fleet Innovation Driving Change

For years, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) has been framed as something 'just around the corner.' But recent developments suggest the corner has finally been turned. From falling vehicle prices and growing government incentives, to record-high adoption rates and innovative fleet strategies, the UK is entering a new phase where electrification makes both economic and operational sense.

Prices Are Normalising

Once considered a premium choice, EVs are now closing the cost gap with petrol and diesel models. Industry data shows the upfront price difference between new EVs and their internal combustion engine (ICE) equivalents has fallen to under 20% (the lowest on record). Several models are now available below £20,000, with a wide range of mainstream fleet choices priced in the £28,000–£35,000 bracket.

Meanwhile, used EV values have stabilised, creating a predictable second-hand market and a solid base of buyers. For fleet operators, this marks a turning point: whole-life costs are now competitive without having to rely solely on environmental or tax benefits to justify the business case.

Incentives Are Catalysing Change

Government grants and funding schemes are proving crucial in accelerating adoption. The Electric Car Grant has prompted manufacturers to cut prices and introduce new models under £37,000, driving demand and ensuring greater affordability.

For fleets, the urgency is even greater. The Depot Charging Scheme (DCS) covers up to 75% of depot chargepoint installation costs (up to £1m per organisation), but applications close in November. Those who delay risk missing out on significant funding support. Further deadlines for workplace charging schemes are approaching in early 2026, meaning operators must act now to avoid higher costs later.

Charging and Infrastructure Are Key

While prices are falling, charging availability remains the single biggest adoption trigger. Drivers without driveways or off-street parking still face a 'charging divide,' highlighting the need for expanded kerbside, workplace, and depot infrastructure. Businesses that invest in reliable, future-proof charging will gain a commercial advantage while also helping to close this accessibility gap.

Fleets Leading the Way in Sustainability

Major businesses are already proving what’s possible. AkzoNobel, for example, is rolling out electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) alongside a nationwide fleet powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). In partnership with XPO Logistics, the initiative will cut annual fleet emissions by more than 50%, saving 3,000 tonnes of CO2, which is the equivalent of removing over 650 passenger cars from UK roads.

This dual approach demonstrates how fleets can balance urban electrification with nationwide decarbonisation, achieving immediate, measurable emissions reductions while preparing for a zero-emission future.

The Message Is Clear

The UK EV market is no longer waiting for its tipping point. It's happening now. Falling prices, stabilising residuals, strong government support, and innovative fleet leadership are aligning to make electrification the logical choice.

For businesses, the opportunity is twofold: lower operating costs and stronger sustainability credentials. But timing is critical. Those who act decisively today by securing funding, upgrading infrastructure, and modernising fleets, will not only stay compliant but also gain a competitive edge in tomorrow’s low-carbon economy.

The transition to electric isn’t a future challenge anymore. It’s today’s business opportunity.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

Busting EV Myths: Why Accurate Information and Reliable Charging Infrastructure Are Key to Adoption

A new nationwide study by char.gy has highlighted something we at EVC Solutions see every day: misinformation remains one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption.

The report, What Everyone Should Know About EVs, shows that simple fact-based statements such as “EV batteries last 10–15 years”, significantly increase drivers’ willingness to consider going electric. Yet, despite advances in technology and infrastructure, outdated myths around range, cost, and charging availability still dominate public perception.

Key Findings from the Report

Why This Matters for Businesses and Fleets

The findings are clear: charging availability and reliability are now the decisive factors for EV adoption. For businesses and fleets, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

At EVC Solutions, we make sure your business doesn’t get left behind in this transition. By providing end-to-end charging infrastructure, from consultation and survey through to design, installation, and ongoing management, we remove uncertainty and future-proof your investment.

Our Promise

We simplify the journey into five clear steps:

  1. Consultation – understanding your needs and goals.
  2. Survey – assessing your site and opportunities.
  3. Design – creating a bespoke charging solution.
  4. Installation – delivered with precision and reliability.
  5. Management & Support – ensuring your system runs smoothly long term.

With misinformation rife, the businesses that act decisively on charging infrastructure will be the ones who not only support their drivers but also strengthen their sustainability credentials and stay ahead of regulation.

At EVC Solutions, we believe no one should lose their job for choosing the wrong EV charging partner. We deliver certainty in an uncertain market.

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

Fleet Electrification in 2025: Why Charging Infrastructure is the Missing Piece

The conversation around electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK has moved from if to how fast. With government mandates, falling vehicle costs, and stronger infrastructure in place, fleets now sit at the centre of the transition.

But the reality is more complex: hesitancy remains, costs still weigh heavily, and many managers are unsure how to balance compliance, cost, and practicality.

At EVC Solutions, we specialise in helping fleet and depot operators cut through that complexity, designing and delivering reliable charging infrastructure that makes EV adoption seamless and future-proof.

Fleets Face Pressure and Opportunity

Four recent reports highlight both the urgency and the barriers:

Why Infrastructure is the Key

Many businesses delay electrification because of uncertainty:

The answer lies in smart, well-planned infrastructure. With the right system in place, fleets gain:

How EVC Solutions Helps

We provide an end-to-end service tailored to fleets and depot operators:

  1. Consultation – understanding your fleet, routes, and operational pressures.
  2. Survey – assessing depot power capacity and site-specific opportunities.
  3. Design – building a bespoke, scalable charging plan.
  4. Installation – precise, reliable delivery with minimal disruption.
  5. Management & Support – monitoring, optimisation, and driver support.

We also guide clients through funding schemes like the Workplace Charging Scheme and fleet infrastructure grants, ensuring you maximise available support.

The Bottom Line

The EV transition isn’t a future challenge, it’s today’s reality. Fleet managers who act now will benefit from:

Book an appointment today and see what’s possible.

Fleet Electrification Without the Wait: Overcoming Grid Connection Bottlenecks

For fleet managers across the UK, the pressure to transition from diesel to electric vehicles is mounting. Sustainability commitments, emissions regulations, and rising fuel costs are all driving the shift. But one major obstacle is slowing progress: grid connection delays.

According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, some businesses face waits of up to 15 years to secure a grid connection for EV charging infrastructure. For logistics, delivery, and bus operators, that kind of delay isn’t just frustrating, it’s commercially unworkable.

So, how can businesses keep their decarbonisation plans on track without waiting over a decade?

Alternative Power Solutions for Fleets

Recent industry developments have highlighted the role of biogas-powered fuel cells and battery storage as a 'bridge' to electrification. These systems generate reliable, off-grid electricity, helping fleets start their EV journey without waiting for grid upgrades.

It’s clear that alternative energy solutions can play a role in unlocking stalled EV adoption. But they’re only part of the picture. The real challenge is knowing which strategy is right for your fleet and how to implement it seamlessly.

Why a Strategic Approach Matters

The transition to zero-emission fleets isn’t just about plugging in chargers. It requires a careful, structured approach that balances energy supply, operational needs, and future growth. At EVC Solutions, we’ve seen too many businesses hesitate because the path forward feels uncertain. That’s why we provide a proven five-step journey:

  1. Consultation: Understand your fleet’s needs and decarbonisation goals.
  2. Survey: Assess your site’s infrastructure, energy demands, and opportunities.
  3. Design: Create a bespoke EV charging plan that’s scalable and future-proof.
  4. Installation: Deliver high-quality, reliable infrastructure with minimal disruption.
  5. Management & Support: Monitor, optimise, and maintain your system for peace of mind.

This framework means your investment isn’t just about solving today’s challenges, it’s about building a solution that works for the long term.

The ROI of Acting Now

Delaying electrification comes with hidden costs: rising fuel expenses, lost opportunities for sustainability leadership, and the risk of falling behind competitors. By contrast, businesses that act now can:

Even where grid connections are delayed, EVC Solutions helps clients explore phased strategies, interim power solutions, and funding opportunities to keep progress moving.

Future-Proof Your Fleet with EVC Solutions

Fleet electrification is a complex journey, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At EVC Solutions, we simplify the process, providing clear advice, bespoke designs, and end-to-end delivery so you can electrify with confidence.

Whether you’re considering interim solutions like fuel-cell power or planning for a large-scale depot upgrade, we’ll make sure your charging infrastructure is reliable, compliant, and future-ready.

Don’t wait 15 years for the grid. Book an appointment with EVC Solutions today and see what’s possible.

Is Now the Right Time to Go Electric? The New Grant Scheme Says Yes

For businesses and fleets weighing up the switch to electric, timing is everything. And right now, the UK market has been given a powerful nudge forward: a new £650 million government grant scheme that reduces the upfront cost of electric vehicles (EVs) by as much as £3,750.

The aim is simple; to bring EVs within reach of more drivers by closing the price gap with petrol and diesel vehicles. For organisations managing fleets, this isn’t just about saving money on day one. The government estimates EVs can deliver up to £1,500 a year in fuel and running cost savings compared to petrol cars.

How the Scheme Works

The Electric Car Grant (ECG) applies to new EVs priced below £37,000.

Importantly, businesses don’t need to do anything to claim the grant. Manufacturers apply on your behalf, and the discount is automatically reflected in the list price.

Eligibility depends not only on price but also on how sustainably the car is manufactured, including battery production and assembly. This focus on lifecycle emissions means many European-built EVs are favoured, while some premium and Chinese-built models may not qualify.

Which Vehicles Are Included?

The full list of approved cars is still being rolled out, but the first models already announced include Citroën, Renault, Nissan, and Vauxhall with 19 vehicles approved so far, such as the Renault Megane, Citroën ë-C3, and Vauxhall Grandland Electric.

More brands are expected to join, but the sub-£37,000 threshold already excludes popular upmarket models like Tesla, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. That said, the scheme has triggered a wave of manufacturer-led price cuts to bring vehicles under the cap, ensuring more choice for buyers.

What Does This Mean for Businesses?

For fleet operators, the timing is critical. The ECG runs until 2027/28 or until funds are exhausted. Early signs show strong demand, and history tells us these schemes can accelerate uptake quickly.

With the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel sales edging closer, the message is clear: acting early locks in financial benefits, access advantages, and sustainability leadership.

EVC’s Perspective

While grants are welcome, many businesses still face a bigger question: how to design and implement the right charging infrastructure to make EV adoption practical, cost-effective, and future-proof.

That’s where EVC Solutions comes in. We guide you through the journey:

  1. Consultation – understanding your fleet’s needs.
  2. Survey – assessing your sites and opportunities.
  3. Design – building a tailored charging strategy.
  4. Installation – delivered with precision and reliability.
  5. Management & Support – ongoing optimisation and peace of mind.

The new grants may reduce the upfront cost of vehicles but without the right infrastructure in place, businesses risk missing out on the full benefits.

The Bottom Line

The landscape is shifting fast. Prices are coming down, grants are live, and more vehicle models are becoming available every month. For businesses, that means the case for electrification has never been stronger.

At EVC Solutions, our promise is simple: we make the transition seamless, reliable, and future-proof.

💡 Book an Appointment and See What’s Possible.

Powering Your Depot: What You Need to Know About the New £1m Government EV Charging Grant

With the Government’s new Depot Charging Scheme now live, there's never been a better time to electrify your fleet. But for many businesses, the challenge isn't just applying for the grant – it’s knowing where to start, who to trust, and how to get everything installed in time.

At EVC Solutions, we help businesses like yours design, install and maintain depot EV charging systems that work, and qualify for the grant.

What’s the Grant Worth?

If your organisation runs vans, HGVs or coaches and owns or leases a depot site, you could get:

But applications close 28 November 2025, and all installation must be finished by 31 March 2026. That doesn’t leave much time.

Who Can Apply?

This is for public or private fleets, local authorities, and non-profits. You’ll need:

How EVC Helps You See What’s Possible

You don’t need to do this alone.

We support your journey at every stage, from initial assessment to funding support, from installation to ongoing maintenance.

Here’s what you get:

We’re not just another installer. We’re your EV infrastructure partner.

Don’t Leave It Too Late

This is a rare opportunity to fund up to £1 million of depot infrastructure but the deadline is tight and competition will be strong. EVC Solutions helps you apply with confidence, design with certainty, and install without disruption.

There are T+C’S and qualifying conditions that will limit who can apply for the grant.

Applicants must be a FORS registered operator for trucks and either a BVRLA member or registered as LUK Van Excellence accredited for vans.

Start your application here: https://find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/grants/depot-charging-scheme-1#summary

Call EVC Solutions today
Let’s talk about your depot, your vehicles, and your roadmap to electrification.