The Human Side of the EV Transition

The Human Side of the EV Transition

The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is inevitable for fleets over the next five years, yet 40% of drivers remain uncertain about the change, up from 27% last year. While the focus is often on costs, compliance, and safety, the emotional impact on drivers is equally critical.

Beyond Logistics: Drivers Are Feeling the Pressure

Most conversations around EVs revolve around range, charging, and technology. But 73% of drivers have already changed their driving habits to adapt to EVs, proving the transition goes deeper than finding a charging point. Many drivers face “tech anxiety” as they adapt to digital dashboards, apps, and telematics, leaving them feeling out of their depth or even fearing replacement by more tech-savvy peers.

Loss of Control and Identity

For many, vehicles are a point of pride and professional identity. EVs can feel like a detachment from that, with less mechanical familiarity and reduced independence. New driving habits, reliance on external infrastructure, and telematics can feel intrusive and frustrating.

Change Fatigue Is Real

With nearly a third of fleets having only 25% or fewer EVs, many drivers will face this transition mid-career, often with little or no EV experience. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Tailored strategies and transparent communication are key to managing resistance, closing trust gaps, and easing fears about job security, performance expectations, and increased oversight.

Engagement Through Inclusion

Drivers must feel part of the journey—not passive recipients of change. Gradual rollouts, open dialogue, and opportunities for feedback help reduce change fatigue and re-engage staff. When drivers feel heard and understand how they contribute to shared ESG goals, their engagement and pride increase.

A Shared Mission for a Sustainable Future

The EV transition is more than an operational shift; it’s a chance to reconnect with drivers. By inviting them into the process, addressing concerns, and building confidence, fleets can create a culture of inclusion, mutual respect, and shared purpose. This empowers drivers to adapt with confidence and take pride in shaping a more sustainable future.

Shocking Truth: Are Electric Cars More Prone to Accidents?

With electric vehicles (EVs) rapidly gaining popularity on our roads – making up over 8.8% of new car registrations in the first half of this year – it's natural for concerns about their safety to emerge. A recent study by insurer Axa sheds light on a surprising trend: electric cars are involved in 50% more traffic accidents than their petrol and diesel counterparts.

It's Not the Cars – It's the Drivers

But before you jump to conclusions about faulty technology or exploding batteries, here's the crucial twist: the higher accident rate has nothing to do with the EVs themselves, but everything to do with driver behaviour.

Axa's extensive research, including a survey of over 1,200 EV owners, debunks the myth of higher fire risks from batteries. In fact, electric cars are no more likely to catch fire than traditional combustion engine vehicles.

The Real Culprit: Instant Acceleration

So, what's causing the fender benders? According to Michael Pfäffli, head of accidents and prevention at Axa, it boils down to one key factor: the incredibly fast and sharp acceleration of electric motors.

"We have seen in our statistics that drivers of electric vehicles cause 50 per cent more collisions than cars with internal combustion engines," explains Pfäffli. "Drivers of powerful electric cars in particular cause twice as many accidents as with standard cars."

Crash tests clearly demonstrate how quickly EVs can "shoot out of the starting blocks." Many drivers, especially those new to electric cars, simply aren't accustomed to this instant torque. They misjudge the acceleration, leading to unexpected surges and, ultimately, collisions. Axa's data shows that most accidents occur during acceleration, not braking.

How to Stay Safe in an EV

The takeaway? It's all about adjusting your driving style. If you're making the switch to an EV, remember that it's a different beast. Be mindful of the agile acceleration, handle the pedal with care, and always maintain a safe distance.

Interestingly, while EVs might be more accident-prone due to driving behaviour, they often fare better in collisions. Their heavier build, thanks to those batteries, means the lighter car in a crash typically sustains more damage.

Drive Smart, Embrace the Power

So, as the electric revolution continues, let's all drive smart and embrace the power responsibly!

References:

1. Driver Attitudes Towards EV Transition – Fleet News, 2024.

2. EV Adoption and Behavioural Change Study – Energy Saving Trust, 2024.

3. Fleet EV Adoption Statistics – Department for Transport, UK Government, 2024.