In this issue
Do you remember the backlash of EV hate following the fire in Luton airport’s multi- storey car park in 2023? The internet and social media were awash with stories of how EVs were unsafe and could set themselves on fire for weeks – only to find out later that the fire was in fact started by an ICE-powered Range Rover! This is a perfect example of EV misinformation spreading like wildfire and is the subject of our lead feature by Jack Carfrae, which starts on P22. This, and negativity around EVs running out of charge, or there not being enough chargers, are ongoing. We look at why these tall stories remain so prolific and find out how to deal with them. Elsewhere, we’re looking again at driver training. Always important in our opinion, but it now seems even more so, with UK business looking for overseas talent to fill their skill shortage. According to Jack, whose feature is an eye-opener, demand for these ‘UK familiarisation’ courses is increasing, and are a new revenue stream for the training companies offering them! Find out more on P28. I can’t believe how fast we’re rattling through 2025! The weather suggests summer, and it will soon be time for Business Car Awards judging, and then the Awards themselves will come around quickly after that! Have you entered? If not, why not? If it’s because you need more help with the entry process, we’ve compiled a ‘helping hand’ piece on P12. We look forward to receiving your entries!
I hope you enjoy the issue.
Martyn Collins Business Car editor
Looking ahead, the Europcar commitment to sustainability remains steadfast. Plans include an increased focus on electric vans, continued growth of the EV fleet, further investment in charging infrastructure and collaboration with the insurance sector to facilitate like-for-like EV replacements. To help businesses and drivers gain a better understanding of EV life, Europcar regularly updates its free digital EV Guide and Knowledge Hub. The comprehensive beginner’s guide to EVs explains how switching to an EV will help save money and reduce emissions and what EV incentives are available.
To find out more about Europcar sustainable mobility solutions visit:
www.europcar.co.uk/en-gb/p/business/ fleet-services/electric
DRIVING TOWARDS A GREENER FUTURE The road to a sustainable future is paved with progress, and the latest data from Europcar UK’s EV Barometer signals a significant shift in the right direction. Businesses are increasingly recognising the viability of zero-emission fleets, with fewer barriers hindering their transition. Notably, concerns surrounding charging infrastructure, model choice, lack of knowledge, and employee resistance have all decreased between Q4 2024 and Q1 2025. However, cost remains a primary concern for 38.4% of businesses.
Europcar’s 2025 Sustainability Report, “Sustainable Evolution,” provides a comprehensive overview of the UK’s EV landscape and highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to reducing its overall environmental impact. Vehicle rental is a powerful tool to enable both businesses and individuals to experience the tangible benefits of electric mobility firsthand. With an holistic approach, sustainability is deeply ingrained in every aspect of Europcar’s operations. Going beyond adding low and zero emissions vehicles to the rental fleet, Europcar is actively reshaping the future of mobility. Key achievements in the past year include:
Growing green fleet: 14% of the rental fleet now comprises Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), with BEV utilisation more than doubling.
A million more green rentals: Low and zero emissions rentals increased from 228,000 rental days in 2023 to more than 1,241,000 in 2024.
Reducing operational emissions: Over 80,000 kg of CO2 saved by utilising EVs and electric bikes for vehicle delivery and collection.
Optimising EV rentals: An industry-leading policy ensures BEVs are rented from Europcar with at least 80% charge and only require a 20% charge upon return, enhancing convenience for customers.
Driving affordability: In April 2025 Europcar introduced price parity on electric car and van rental rates for business account customers, making sustainable choices more accessible.
Expanding charging infrastructure: Europcar has significantly expanded its charging network, with 65% of branches now equipped with onsite charging facilities, far exceeding the national average amongst rental companies.
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