NZTA switches to electric with fleetPartners’ help

This story first appeared in the november issue of evtalk – CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

While the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has already moved almost half its pool fleet to electric vehicles, further studies are under way to determine how it can progress further towards fully electric.

Its vehicle fleet comprises 162 vehicles leased from FleetPartners, of which 36 are Hyundai Ioniqs, and two BMW i3s that the agency owns.

In 2018, the NZTA transitioned all its compact hatchback internal combustion engine vehicles to fully electric. A lack of electric utes and electric four-wheel drive SUVs is among reasons it cannot yet make the full transition for all vehicles.

An ongoing feasibility study using data from the current EVs will help determine how the vehicles are used and assist with the switch to further EVs as suitable electric options become available.

The pool EVs are used for travelling between offices like those in Wellington and Palmerston North, and Hamilton and Auckland.

The decision to move to fully electric pool vehicles is in line with the government direction towards a low emissions all-of-government vehicle fleet where practicable.

The transition was made after the fleet team studied the vehicle telematics, such as distances travelled, where vehicles travelled to, and why drivers were using the vehicles, to identify which vehicles could be transitioned to electric.

The two BMW i3s were purchased in 2016 as a trial towards moving to EV technology.

The switch to EVs in multiple sites around New Zealand required a good understanding of the infrastructure requirements and an engaged Property team – the installation of AC chargers at offices around the country was a logistical challenge and required liaison with different landlords.

A critical part of moving to EVs was providing opportunities for staff to be familiar and comfortable with driving and charging an EV.

The NZTA ran roadshows around the country so staff could learn more and ask questions. Many were keen on learning more about EVs as a personal vehicle option.

All drivers are provided with a vehicle induction which for electric vehicles includes how to charge, what to do in an emergency (or a flat tyre, run out of battery, etc).

A survey done six months after the EVs were introduced into the fleet gave responses such as:

• “They’re fun! Great initiative by the agency switching to EVs.”
• “It was great, no issue.”
• “The EV’s are great. Love them.”
• “Preferred over the previous vehicles. Once you get the hang of the slight differences compared to our previous fleet vehicles, it’s a breeze to use.”
• “Pros: Drives nicely, pretty good and straight forward for short trips. Cons: Longer trips may require some journey planning.”
• “I was pleasantly surprised at how ‘normal’ the car was to use.”

However, some staff are still cautious when it comes choosing to drive an EV, citing reasons such as the range, uncertainty about where to stop and charge, or unfamiliarity with the vehicle.

Another series of roadshows is under way to provide staff with a further opportunity to learn more about the EVs and charging, with a chance for staff to take one for a quick test drive to build confidence.