Ford Pro, the commercial vehicle business unit of Ford, is making a compelling case for commercial vehicle fleets to consider going electric. Wanda Young, Global CMO/CX at Ford Pro, recently shared insights from Ford’s business and government customers who are leading large-scale electrification efforts.
According to Young, the commercial sector is poised to lead the electric vehicle revolution, much like businesses spearheaded the early adoption of computers. She emphasized that commercial customers assess vehicle acquisition through a different lens than personal buyers. While personal buyers may prioritize brand connection and aesthetics, businesses focus on operational needs, total cost of ownership (TCO), and vehicle performance.
Despite the benefits of electric vehicles, Ford found that only 6% of fleet decision-makers have adapted their TCO calculations to include electric vehicles. This oversight, according to Ford, means that businesses are missing out on a compelling business case for going electric.
Ford highlights that electric vehicles often have a lower overall TCO due to reduced fuel costs and scheduled maintenance expenses. For example, the scheduled maintenance costs for Ford’s E-Transit van are estimated to be 48% less than those of a gasoline-powered Transit van over a 5-year/75,000-mile period.
Additionally, incentives and tax breaks in the US can help lower upfront costs for businesses transitioning to electric vehicles. Ford Pro electric vehicles may qualify for up to a $7,500 commercial tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act. Customers can also receive a 30% tax credit (up to $100,000) for charging and alternative fuel equipment and installation costs.
In conclusion, Ford Pro is making a strong case for commercial vehicle fleets to go electric by emphasizing the financial benefits, lower TCO, and available incentives. By leveraging these advantages, businesses can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance their operational efficiency and competitiveness in the market.
