The development of electric vehicles has reached an important tipping point, which could see fleet providers embracing the technology, according to Alphabet. The leasing company claim that strong influence from major brands like BMW, Ford, Nissan and VW is helping to support credibility and interest in the sector. Continued investment from the Government, including spending on research, grants and infrastructure, is finally beginning to pay off too. Paul Hollick, chief commercial officer at Alphabet, said: "From our perspective, the tide is certainly turning in favour of electric vehicles. The recent Autumn Statement launched a further £5m investment for public sector fleets to embrace EV technology, while driverless cars are also moving firmly up the agenda. "In Norway, the top-selling cars in September and October were electric _ the Tesla Model S and Nissan Leaf respectively; all of which suggests that we are reaching a crucial tipping point in terms of EV acceptance. "One of the key drivers for change has been the introduction of practical and desirable EV models from respected and trusted mainstream automotive brands. "There is still a way to go in terms of charging infrastructure in the UK; however, many of the traditional barriers to EV ownership are now falling, as costs come down and manufacturers invest in battery life and range. We're confident that, with support from the corporate and public sectors, the adoption of EVs will more than double, from 4,200 to 10,000, over the next three years." Alphabet have recently set up their own fleet consultancy service, AlphaElectric, which aims to help fleet managers make better decisions about their use of ultra-low carbon technology. The service will provide advice on the vehicle selection and charging infrastructure: Hollick added: "Following the AlphaElectric launch event at the Saatchi Gallery, 100% of those surveyed said that they would consider adopting EVs as part of their fleet, with many of those planning to do so within the next two years. 'With the expanding range of plug-in vehicles on the market, a growth in the number of public charging points and further government investment, we're confident that the UK corporate and public sectors will see strong growth in the adoption of EVs.î In November, Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said that Britain could become the global centre of electric cars, following £500m being put aside for the industry from 2015-2020.
