The Latest Updates on Electric Vehicles for Small Businesses

As the world continues its attempt to move towards more sustainable practices, electric vehicles are finally becoming easier to get. And as a result, they're more popular. They emit less pollution than gas-powered vehicles when operating and are predicted to be more efficient and cost-effective.

For small businesses, switching to electric vehicles can offer several advantages. They're often much cheaper to operate than gas-powered vans and trucks. In addition, they require less maintenance and have a minor environmental impact.  

Finally, as more and more consumers become concerned about sustainability, investing in electric vehicles can help small businesses stay ahead of the curve and appeal to environmentally conscious customers. In short, electric cars offer many benefits for small businesses and are likely to become increasingly popular in the years to come. 

If you've been holding off jumping into an EV for your business, here are some of the latest updates on vehicles and incentives.

The Inflation Reduction Act

Whether you're a family-run sole proprietorship or an LLC, you've most likely struggled with the entry cost of EVs. However, benefits from the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act, which includes a Clean Vehicle Credit, could be what you've been waiting for, especially when purchasing EVs, Plug-in Hybrids, and charging equipment for your crew.

With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, new tax credits are available for businesses to purchase vehicles and charging equipment. And depending on what you buy, you could save thousands on your business taxes and state incentives. With the Inflation Reduction Act, you'll receive up to $7,500 in federal tax credits for each qualifying EV or PHEV you buy for your business.

Latest Update on the Availability of EVs for Small Businesses

Although there is much hyperbole concerning EV development in general, as of this writing, only a few commercial EV models are actually available for sale to business owners. However, Ford, Rivian, and BrightDrop are producing more. Here's a short list of available commercial vehicles:

Ford E-Transit

One of the most viable commercial EV vans available with various size options and backing by Ford. Ford says they're a great choice because:

• 126 miles range
• 40% fewer scheduled maintenance costs
• Zero tailpipe emissions vehicle
• 300 Qualified upfitters around the country
• Supported by Ford Pro™ Network
• Fleet Telematics Software

BrightDrop Zevo 600

GM's commercial van is a step up from the Ford E-Transit in size, power, and EV distance. GM says it should be considered because:

• 250 miles range
• 300 HP/390 lb-ft torque
• AWD
• 600 cubic feet of upfit space
• Upfitting support
• Fleet Telematics Software

Rivian RCV and R1T 03 Utility

Rivian has produced more than a few EV R1T pickups and now has the 03 Utility for commercial applications. They also have a commercial van called the Rivian RCV that includes their FleetOS software.

• Configurable models ranging from 500 to 700 cubic feet of cargo capacity, with options for integrated factory upfitting
• ADAS technologies that help increase driver safety and operating efficiency
• Flexibility of CCS1 charging
• Fleet Telematics Software

Although Ford, Tesla, BrightDrop, Rivian, and other EV manufacturers are producing more vehicles, one of the main challenges with electric vehicles is the availability of charging stations. While most cities now have a good selection of charging stations, many are often unavailable because of damage or the need for repair, according to this recent study from the University of California, Berkeley.

Fortunately, there is some excellent software that can help with this. PlugShare, for example, is a free app that shows the locations of charging stations in the United States and Canada. The app also allows users to rate and review stations to see what others think before stopping. Another option is ChargePoint, which has over 70,000 charging stations in its network. In addition, the app lets you pay for charging directly from your phone, so you or your drivers don't need cash or a credit card. With these apps, finding a charge should be relatively easy.

Telematics Software is Becoming More Important

Although independent apps provide valuable platforms, OEMs like Ford and Rivian offer complete telematic ecosystems for small business owners. For example, Ford's CEO Jim Farley told Fox Business, "Now we want to move into the services business, and those customers, most of them are small businesses. They own five or six vehicles or are a plumber, electrician. They are underserved customers with data and telematics."

So, Ford has Ford Pro™ that comes with Ford Pro™ E-Telematics, which can maximize battery efficiency, analyze current range, and help drivers locate and manage charging while on routes. Lastly, their E-Telematics software makes it easy for employees to charge at home and be reimbursed for any costs while charging.

Start Your Search Here

Like any other asset, owning and operating an EV is best when you start small and grow from there. Working with a manufacturer and utility company to help you plan will save you money and time.  

With prices coming down and more incentives expected, the benefits of commercial EVs are beginning to outweigh the costs. And it may not be long before you have a fleet of EVs. However, if you’re looking for a  Ford E-Transit to begin your EV journey, we have hundreds of them on Comvoy.com. And, if you’re not ready for EVs but need a replacement commercial truck,  you can start here.

With over 42 upfit and body types, Comvoy has the largest selection of ready-to-roll commercial vehicles on the internet. Comvoy shows full specifications and details for most body types and manufacturers. Want to learn more? See more about body types in our learning center.

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