New deal to install charging points for Hitachi’s EV customers
Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions and British Gas have struck a deal that will allow British businesses to lease electric vehicles as well as the charging points required to fuel them.
British Gas will meet its end of the bargain by installing EV charging points at the homes of Hitachi Capital fleet customers who will also receive free call-outs on all home electrical repairs including parts and labour for three years, as part of British Gas’ Home Electrical Care.
Chris Shore, Pricing Manager for Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, said that placing convenient charging facilities at drivers’ homes was key in overcoming one of EVs’ biggest obstacles.
“Many drivers concerns around electric vehicles lie in ‘range anxiety’ – worries about how far they can travel on one battery charge,” he explained.
“The ability to provide a safe and convenient charging point in a driver’s own home or place of business is therefore crucial to alleviating concerns and making them feel more comfortable about choosing an electric vehicle.”
The relationship arrives following the recent addition of the Nissan LEAF and Citroen C-Zero to Hitachi Capital’s fleet list which now features every EV on the market.
The deal also furthers the link between British Gas and Nissan and Renault as the preferred supplier of charge points in Britain. Many believes that the involvement of such a prolific and well established company signifies the bright future ahead for the EV market. It has been predicted that 10% of all vehicles on the road in 2020 will be fully electric.
Best range
British Gas was brought in on the basis of its strong service network and the quality and competitiveness of its charging solution offering, revealed Hitachi Capital CEO Simon Oliphant.
“Our customers are increasingly asking us about using electric vehicles for their business, and we always want to provide the best range of vehicles, combined with the latest technology,” he added.
“The electric vehicles included in our fleet offering allow us to help customers to keep overheads low, while having the opportunity to trial the latest technology.
“Partnering with British Gas, Britain’s largest supplier of electricity to homes, means we can provide our customers with the best quality charging technology and solutions, with peace of mind that they’re experiencing a prompt and professional service.”
Research suggests that British Gas will power 70% of EVs by the end of next year.
Fiona McDonagh, Innovation Manager at British Gas, said: “The market for electric vehicles in Britain is growing fast, and the fact that Hitachi Capital has decided to add EVs to its fleet offering really confirms this.
“We can help electric car owners power their car for less money and from renewable sources.”
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