Smart commercial fleets can lead the charge to Net Zero
Christopher Thorneycroft-Smith, co-founder of Aegis Energy, argues that while fleet operators have faced challenges to going electric, acting now could give them a long-term advantage
Just over two months into 2025, Britian’s low-carbon automotive sector is already making significant progress. Whether it’s Amazon and M&S integrating lower-emission vehicles into their logistics fleets or the government extending the Plug-in Van Grant to April 2026 – momentum is building, and the transition to cleaner transport is well underway.
While these developments are promising, commercial fleets must be at the heart of this shift. New data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reveals that despite strong consumer demand for sustainable logistics and the impending diesel vehicle ban, growth in zero-emission trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) has stalled in recent months. To keep progress on track, we must address the challenges fleet operators face and make the transition feasible and beneficial for businesses.
One historic barrier to adoption was the high upfront cost of transitioning to low-carbon fuels. However, the case for investment is strengthening. The government has just announced an extension to the Plug-in Van Grant, and advancements in battery technology and increasing model availability are bringing the total cost of ownership (TCO) closer to parity with diesel vehicles. Businesses that transition early will be in the best position to capitalise on these benefits.
Charging infrastructure has long been a concern, but significant progress is being made. While there are currently fewer than five dedicated HGV charge points across UK roads, government and private sector initiatives are accelerating expansion. In January, Aegis Energy announced plans to build the UK’s first-ever network of clean, multi-energy hubs for commercial vehicles, marking a major step for fleet electrification.
At the same time, fleets need infrastructure that’s fit for purpose. Many electric van drivers struggle with public charging networks, as their vehicles are too large for standard bays, and the lack of booking systems creates uncertainty. The Logistics UK Van Report 2023 highlights this challenge, with a third of respondents citing power infrastructure as one of the biggest obstacles to decarbonisation. Ensuring that charging solutions align with real-world fleet needs will be critical to overcoming adoption hesitancy. Installing depot charging comes with high upfront costs and complex planning applications, whereas purpose-built public access multi-energy hubs, paired with innovative financing models and smarter planning are making the transition more accessible. Those who transition early will not only future-proof operations but also unlock long-term savings and build a competitive advantage as demand for sustainable transport grows.
Range anxiety has been a concern, especially for logistics companies with long-distance operations. However, battery range advancements and the expansion of high-power charging infrastructure are closing this gap. Delivery vehicles, tradespeople, and freight operators need reliable charging networks; something that is becoming a reality.
At Aegis Energy, by building infrastructure that meets the needs of large clean fuel fleets, we’re not only making the journey to sustainability accessible but also setting a new standard for driver welfare. Our initial five-station network in Sheffield, Immingham, Warrington, Corby, and Towcester will be completed by the end of 2027, with each hub expected to reduce carbon equivalent emissions by 14,300 tonnes per annum. With industry collaboration, investor support, and government backing, this impact can scale exponentially.
The transition to clean commercial transport is no longer a distant goal – it’s happening now. Businesses that embrace electrification today will gain long-term cost savings, operational resilience, and a competitive edge in an evolving logistics landscape. With diesel ban deadlines approaching and charging infrastructure expanding, the opportunity to lead the industry shift has never been greater. Fleet operators who act now will be at the forefront of a cleaner, more efficient, and future-proofed transport sector.
