In today’s rapidly electrifying world, businesses with commercial vehicle fleets are facing a critical transformation. As sustainability becomes a business imperative rather than a choice, EV fleets emerge as both a challenge and an exciting opportunity.

However, before this can happen, a robust EV charging infrastructure tailored to fleet needs must be successfully implemented.

The Case for Fleet EV Charging

Electric vans and HGVs are gradually becoming a must-have for modern fleets. New fleet battery EV (BEV) registrations have surged by 11.5% in 2025, proof of growing momentum; however, unlike electric vans, which have been on the market since 2011, electric HGVs are still emerging, with generally limited model availability and higher price tags.

For fleet operators, carefully planned, high-capacity depot charging and a scalable infrastructure should be considered essential. It is here that infrastructure experts, such as RAW Charging, can play a crucial role.

Why Fleets Need EV Charging Solutions That Work

• 1. Tailored infrastructure for operational efficiency
  Depot charging must meet fleet requirements, e.g. extensive charging bay space and increased power demand. Electric vans do not require much space; however, HGVs require significantly more space and a much higher electrical capacity. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work regarding fleet charging, which is why RAW tailors each installation to your unique needs.

• 2. Smarter investment through Host Ownership
  Opting for schemes such as RAW’s Host Ownership allows business owners to avoid hefty upfront capital outlay thanks to zero-cost hardware and software, installation, and ongoing maintenance. These flexible, scalable solutions make electrifying fleet operations more feasible.

• 3. Government backing through the Depot Charging Scheme.
  To combat the perceived infrastructure barrier, the UK government rolled out the Depot Charging Scheme, offering to cover up to 75% of installation costs, with the grant capped at £1 million per organisation. This initiative targets depots, supporting the transition to EV HGVs, vans, and coaches, and significantly lowering the financial obstacles for fleet operators.

What Fleet Managers Need to Know

Being aware of the potential hurdles involved when transitioning to an EV fleet will make the process much smoother and more manageable. You may find that there are:

• Limited HGV models - Given the increased power requirements and longer ranges typically covered by HGVs, the adoption of HGV EV fleets has been lower when compared to EV vans. Although there are fewer model options at present, the presence of more available eHGVs is already increasing.

• Higher costs and power consumption - Higher upfront investment regarding vehicle cost can deter some organisations. However, with government schemes and infrastructure options such as RAW’s Host Ownership, implementing EV charging facilities and meeting grid requirements is much easier.

• Grid limitations - Costly grid connections or delays can also prove problematic for fleet owners. Thankfully, operators such as RAW Charging take care of all planning and infrastructure processes, including engaging with DNO/IDNO (Distribution Network Operators/Independent Distribution Network Operators) early to ensure you are adequately powered and connected.

• Problems caused by poor planning - Inadequate and inexperienced planning can result in increased downtime, regulatory issues, and an insufficient number of chargers. With operators like RAW, you will benefit from proper forecasting, compliance, safety, customer service, and power quality standards — all with minimal disruption to your operations.

The Next Steps

To access the best fit for your needs and ensure your premises are suited and prepared, you should:

• Assess the readiness of your fleet and depot - Determine the number of vehicles and vehicle types, the required power capacity, and any space constraints.

• Explore funding opportunities - Look into the likes of the Depot Charging Scheme to subsidise any infrastructure costs..

• Work with EV experts - Specialist partners, such as RAW Charging, can help tackle planning, installation, maintenance, and long-term growth.

• Begin planning now - Planning, infrastructure deployment, and installation take time. The more you wait, the greater the chance of missed opportunities.

With these points in mind, the next logical step is to contact RAW Charging for a free, no-obligation assessment of your depot. With RAW’s help, you can invest in intelligent, compliant, and scalable turnkey charging solutions now, reducing emissions, unlocking operational efficiencies, and future-proofing your logistics for years to come.

Fleet electrification is not just about swapping diesel for electric; it can reinvent the way logistics work. A depot-based charging infrastructure is the backbone that makes this possible.