2. Detailed Findings
2.1 Fleet Purchase Intentions and Drivers
2.1.1 Plans to Purchase or Lease a New or Previously Owned Vehicle
Half of medium and heavy vehicle fleet operators (51%) intend to purchase or lease a new vehicle when it comes to adding or replacing a vehicle on their fleet. A third (31%) plan to acquire a previously owned vehicle. A small group of businesses (14%) acknowledge that their next vehicle could be either new or previously owned, and 4% are not sure.
- It is clear that largest fleets are more likely than the smaller ones to acquire a new vehicle. Small fleets lean toward previously owned vehicles.
- Ontario and Atlantic-based fleets are more likely to be purchasing or leasing a new vehicle.
Table 2.1.1.a Replacing or adding a new vehicle: lease a new or previously owned one
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| New |
51% |
39% |
49% |
60% |
71% |
51% |
55% |
42% |
| Previously owned |
31% |
42% |
37% |
19% |
5% |
27% |
31% |
36% |
| Could be new or previously owned |
14% |
12% |
12% |
18% |
17% |
19% |
8% |
17% |
| Don't know/ not sure |
4% |
7% |
2% |
3% |
7% |
2% |
5% |
5% |
| Q. When replacing or adding the next vehicle to your fleet, do you plan to purchase or lease a new or a previously owned vehicle? |
Table 2.1.1.b Replacing or adding a new vehicle: lease a new or previously owned one
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| New |
51% |
50% |
41% |
35% |
65% |
48% |
74% |
52% |
52% |
| Previously owned |
31% |
35% |
43% |
40% |
22% |
27% |
20% |
29% |
30% |
| Could be new or previously owned |
14% |
12% |
13% |
17% |
11% |
20% |
7% |
16% |
12% |
| Don't know/ not sure |
4% |
4% |
4% |
9% |
3% |
5% |
- |
3% |
6% |
| Q. When replacing or adding the next vehicle to your fleet, do you plan to purchase or lease a new or a previously owned vehicle? |
2.1.2 Reasons for Adding a Vehicle to Fleet
The main reasons for adding a new vehicle are replacing vehicles that are at the end of their useful life (84%) and company growth (81%). Environmental considerations are secondary but it is notable that 67% report that proactive replacement (early retirement) of current vehicle with a more fuel efficient vehicle is a reason for them. Almost half see purchasing a vehicle as part of their company’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by choosing a lower-emitting vehicle option.
- Company growth is a more important reason for larger fleets.
- Efforts to reduce greenhouse gases is more likely to be a reason for Quebec and B.C. based companies.
Table 2.1.2.a. Reasons for adding a new vehicle
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
Yes |
No |
Don’t know |
| Replacement of a current vehicle that reaches end of useful life |
84% |
15% |
1% |
| Company growth |
81% |
18% |
1% |
| Proactive replacement (early retirement) of current vehicle with one that will be more fuel efficient |
67% |
32% |
1% |
| Efforts to decrease our company's greenhouse gas emissions by choosing a lower-emitting vehicle option |
48% |
49% |
3% |
| Q. Which of the following are reasons that your company would consider adding a new vehicle to your fleet? Please answer yes or no for each one. |
Table 2.1.2.b. Reasons for adding a new vehicle (% Yes) by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| Replacement of a current vehicle that reaches end of useful life |
84% |
77% |
84% |
90% |
86% |
87% |
86% |
76% |
| Company growth |
81% |
77% |
77% |
86% |
95% |
85% |
77% |
81% |
| Proactive replacement (early retirement) of current vehicle with one that will be more fuel efficient |
67% |
64% |
68% |
70% |
66% |
67% |
66% |
67% |
| Efforts to decrease our company's greenhouse gas emissions by choosing a lower-emitting vehicle option |
48% |
47% |
49% |
46% |
62% |
52% |
39% |
53% |
| Q. Which of the following are reasons that your company would consider adding a new vehicle to your fleet? Please answer yes or no for each one. |
2.1.3 Drivers of Vehicle Choice for Fleet
When it comes to deciding on what vehicle the company will purchase for its fleet, the most important factors are maintenance requirements (96% very/somewhat important), fuel efficiency (94%), and purchase or financing cost (92%). Being the right fit for their duty cycles (88%) is also of high importance.
Of somewhat lower importance for their decision is the environmental impact (72%). More than one in ten (12%) say that the environmental impact is not important at all.
A similarly much lower consideration for companies is the desire to continue to purchase the same make of vehicle that already makes up their fleet (64%). It is important for some companies but not as important as the other considerations.
The rank ordering of importance is similar across different fleet sizes and vehicle types but there are some differences:
- Companies with 50 or more vehicles place more importance on the fit for their duty cycles. For hire companies also place a higher importance on the right fit.
- Mid-size fleets (10 to 49) place a higher importance on purchasing the same make as their existing fleet.
- Vehicle purchase cost is more important for smaller fleets than for larger ones (50+).
Table 2.1.3.a. Importance in deciding on a vehicle
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
Very important |
Somewhat important |
Not very important |
Not important at all |
Don’t know |
| Maintenance requirements |
81% |
15% |
4% |
- |
- |
| Right fit for our duty cycles |
72% |
16% |
5% |
3% |
4% |
| Fuel efficiency - cost of fuel to operate |
71% |
23% |
4% |
3% |
- |
| Purchase/financing cost |
68% |
25% |
5% |
3% |
- |
| Environmental impact - pollution from operation |
35% |
37% |
15% |
12% |
1% |
| Purchasing same make of vehicle(s) as is currently in your fleet |
32% |
32% |
24% |
12% |
1% |
| Q. How important are each of the following for you when deciding what vehicle your company will purchase for its fleet? |
Table 2.1.3.b. Importance in deciding on a vehicle (%Very important) by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| Maintenance requirements |
81% |
74% |
83% |
84% |
93% |
76% |
86% |
85% |
| Right fit for our duty cycles |
72% |
68% |
73% |
73% |
86% |
63% |
83% |
70% |
| Fuel efficiency - cost of fuel to operate |
71% |
65% |
77% |
74% |
57% |
66% |
72% |
76% |
| Purchase/financing cost |
68% |
70% |
66% |
71% |
46% |
65% |
64% |
76% |
| Environmental impact - pollution from operation |
35% |
32% |
39% |
34% |
37% |
36% |
23% |
49% |
| Purchasing same make of vehicle(s) as is currently in your fleet |
32% |
29% |
23% |
43% |
21% |
36% |
29% |
31% |
| Q. How important are each of the following for you when deciding what vehicle your company will purchase for its fleet? |
2.2. Impressions of Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEVs)
2.2.1. Overall Impressions of ZEVs
Impressions of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs)[2] from an open-end question are mixed with many focusing on the perceived downsides of ZEVs. For example, 34% feel that they are inefficient, especially regarding their performance in extreme weather conditions and the continuing need for charging on long-haul routes. Many (14%) believe ZEVs are too expensive and 15% believe that they are not important or are not interested.
A more optimistic view can be found among those who focus on the fact that ZEVs are important (14%) and those who think that it is something they will think about in the future (6%).
Table 2.2.1.a. Thoughts on Zero-Emission Vehicles (coded verbatim)
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Inefficient/weather, charging issues |
34% |
| Not important/not interested |
15% |
| Too expensive |
14% |
| Positive view/important |
13% |
| Not widely available yet |
10% |
| Something to think in the future |
6% |
| Not sure |
4% |
| Other |
4% |
| Q. What are your thoughts on zero-emission vehicles when it comes to the types of vehicles you operate in your business? |
2.2.2. Familiarity with ZEVs
When it comes to zero-emission vehicles in the vehicle classes that their company uses, awareness is highest when it comes to how the “fueling up” process works when electricity powers a vehicle instead of gas or diesel (59% very or somewhat familiar) vehicle. Only 25% are very familiar.
A majority are also familiar with the operational performance of zero-emission vehicles (56%) and the availability of ZEV models in the vehicles classes their company uses (56%). There is lower familiarity when it comes to the price (49%), the differences in technology and operations (48%) and the operating costs (48%).
Table 2.2.2.a. Familiarity with Aspects of Zero-Emission Vehicles
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
Very familiar |
Somewhat familiar |
Not very familiar |
Not familiar at all |
| How the "fueling up" process works when electricity powers a vehicle instead of gas or diesel |
25% |
34% |
20% |
21% |
| Operational performance of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery range, payload capacity, etc. |
23% |
33% |
21% |
23% |
| Availability of makes and models of zero emission vehicles in the vehicle classes your company uses |
23% |
33% |
18% |
26% |
| The purchase price of zero-emission vehicles |
21% |
28% |
21% |
30% |
| Differences in technology and operation between the different types of zero emission vehicles |
16% |
33% |
28% |
24% |
| The operating costs, such as fuel and maintenance, for zero emission vehicles, compared with conventional gas and diesel vehicles |
19% |
29% |
23% |
29% |
| Q. Are you very familiar, somewhat familiar, not very familiar or not familiar at all with each of the following aspects of zero emission vehicles in the types of vehicle classes that your company or organization operates?
|
Table 2.2.2.b. Familiarity with ZEVs (% Very/Somewhat familiar) by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| How the "fueling up" process works when electricity powers a vehicle instead of gas or diesel |
59% |
50% |
66% |
63% |
60% |
52% |
64% |
64% |
| Operational performance of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery range, payload capacity, etc. |
56% |
52% |
62% |
56% |
60% |
53% |
54% |
63% |
| Availability of makes and models of zero emission vehicles in the vehicle classes your company uses |
56% |
49% |
62% |
56% |
64% |
52% |
59% |
56% |
| The purchase price of zero-emission vehicles |
49% |
49% |
49% |
52% |
42% |
50% |
49% |
50% |
| Differences in technology and operation between the different types of zero emission vehicles |
48% |
41% |
49% |
55% |
41% |
45% |
49% |
53% |
| The operating costs, such as fuel and maintenance, for zero emission vehicles, compared with conventional gas and diesel vehicles |
48% |
50% |
51% |
43% |
48% |
51% |
42% |
52% |
| Q. Are you very familiar, somewhat familiar, not very familiar or not familiar at all with each of the following aspects of zero emission vehicles in the types of vehicle classes that your company or organization operates? |
There are some modest regional differences in familiarity.
- Those in Saskatchewan and Manitoba have a higher level of familiarity with the fueling up process but are less aware of the operating costs.
- Alberta and Ontario fleets are more familiar with the availability of makes and models of ZEVs that their company uses.
Table 2.2.2.c. Familiarity with ZEVs (% Very/Somewhat familiar) by Region and Sector
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| How the "fueling up" process works when electricity powers a vehicle instead of gas or diesel |
59% |
66% |
67% |
71% |
61% |
45% |
51% |
62% |
51% |
| Operational performance of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery range, payload capacity, etc. |
56% |
66% |
62% |
60% |
61% |
41% |
55% |
61% |
45% |
| Availability of makes and models of zero emission vehicles in the vehicle classes your company uses |
56% |
59% |
71% |
50% |
62% |
41% |
39% |
57% |
54% |
| The purchase price of zero-emission vehicles |
49% |
59% |
50% |
45% |
51% |
45% |
55% |
50% |
44% |
| Differences in technology and operation between the different types of zero emission vehicles |
48% |
57% |
50% |
50% |
56% |
36% |
36% |
50% |
41% |
| The operating costs, such as fuel and maintenance, for zero emission vehicles, compared with conventional gas and diesel vehicles |
48% |
60% |
58% |
29% |
52% |
41% |
36% |
50% |
41% |
| Q. Are you very familiar, somewhat familiar, not very familiar or not familiar at all with each of the following aspects of zero emission vehicles in the types of vehicle classes that your company or organization operates? |
2.2.3. Existing ZEVs in Fleets
Only 5% of fleet operators currently have ZEVs in their fleet. Ontario-based fleets (1%) are the least likely to report having a zero-emission vehicle in their fleet.
Table 2.2.3.a. Zero-Emission Vehicles in Fleet
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| Yes |
5% |
6% |
5% |
4% |
5% |
7% |
3% |
5% |
| No |
95% |
94% |
95% |
86% |
95% |
93% |
97% |
95% |
| Q. Do you currently have any zero emission vehicles in your fleet? |
Table 2.2.3.b. Zero-Emission Vehicles in Fleet by Region and Sector
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| Yes |
5% |
4% |
8% |
5% |
1% |
8% |
- |
6% |
5% |
| No |
95% |
96% |
92% |
95% |
99% |
92% |
100% |
94% |
95% |
| Q. Do you currently have any zero emission vehicles in your fleet? |
2.2.4. Types of ZEVs in Fleets
Battery-electric vehicles (41%) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (29%) are the most prevalent types of zero-emission vehicles in fleets at this time. No one reported having a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Interestingly, 30% of those with ZEVs in their fleet didn’t know what type they had, perhaps pointing to further need for awareness and education even for those organizations that have adopted ZEVs.
Table 2.2.4.a. Type of Zero-Emission Vehicles in fleet
| Base n=actual (n=18) |
% |
n |
| Battery-electric vehicles |
41% |
10 |
| Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles |
29% |
4 |
| Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles |
- |
0 |
| Don't know |
30% |
4 |
| Q. Which types of zero-emission vehicles do you have in your fleet? |
|
2.2.5. Experience (time) with ZEVs and Reason to Purchase/Lease ZEVs
Most fleets that have ZEVs added them in the past 2 years. Only one third have had one for more than 2 years.
Table 2.5.a. Years of Experience with ZEVs
| Base n=actual (n=11) |
% |
# |
| Less than 1 year |
18% |
2 |
| 1 to 2 years |
49% |
5 |
| More than 2 years |
33% |
4 |
| Q. How long has your fleet had ZEVs... [coded open] |
|
While the environment is a key driver of purchases of ZEVs, the number one reason was that it was economical.
Table 2.5.b. Reason to Purchase a ZEVs
| Base n=actual (n=11) |
% |
# |
| It was economical |
56% |
6 |
| Thinking about the environment |
40% |
4 |
| Stay up to date |
4% |
1 |
| Q. What were the primary reasons you decided to purchase or lease ZEVs for your company’s fleet? [Coded open] |
|
2.2.6. Experiencing Driving ZEVs Among Non-Users
Among those who do not have a zero-emission vehicle in their fleet, only 16% say that their staff have experience driving ZEVs before.
Table 2.2.6 Staff/Driver Experience Driving ZEVs in Similar Class
| Base n=actual (319) |
% |
| Yes |
16% |
| No |
83% |
| Don't know |
1% |
| Q. [IF NO/NOT SURE FOR ZEV IN FLEET] Have you or, to your knowledge, any of your staff or drivers ever driven or ridden in a ZEV that’s in a similar class of vehicle to those in your fleet? |
[2] Definition of zero-emission vehicles read to respondents before capturing their overall impressions:
“A zero-emission vehicle, or ZEV for short, is a vehicle that can be driven some or all of the time without producing tailpipe emissions. Some types of ZEVs can still have a conventional internal combustion engine but must also be able to operate without using it over some distance when the battery is charged. The Government of Canada defines ZEVs as:
- battery-electric vehicle. That is, there is no tailpipe at all
- plug-in hybrid electric vehicle
- hydrogen fuel cell vehicle from which the only tailpipe emission is water”
2.3. ZEV Purchase Intent and Considerations
2.3.1. Overall Approach to Adding ZEVs
When it comes to adding zero-emission vehicles to their fleets, some companies embrace the technology (3% already have ZEVs and fully intend to purchase more and 4% intend to purchase ZEVs) while others clearly are reluctant or unwilling to consider purchasing ZEVs. Notably, 53% are not interested in and have not considered purchasing a ZEV. A middle group who are interested in and considering ZEVs (35% of companies) are the most likely to be future adopters if they can overcome any barriers.
- Large fleets are the least likely to be unwilling and the most likely to already have intentions (9%) or be interested in purchasing a ZEV (44%).
Table 2.3.1.a. Situation with Zero-Emission Vehicles in Fleet by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| We're not interested and have not considered purchasing a zero-emission vehicle for our fleet. |
53% |
61% |
50% |
51% |
31% |
53% |
60% |
43% |
| We are interested and are considering purchasing a zero-emission vehicle |
35% |
26% |
42% |
39% |
43% |
34% |
32% |
43% |
| We fully intend to purchase or lease additional zero-emission vehicles |
4% |
1% |
3% |
6% |
13% |
4% |
2% |
8% |
| We already have one or more zero emission vehicles in our fleet, and we intend to add more |
3% |
5% |
1% |
3% |
2% |
3% |
2% |
3% |
| Don't know |
5% |
7% |
4% |
2% |
11% |
6% |
5% |
3% |
| Q. Which of the following best describes your company's current situation with respect to adding zero-emission vehicles to your fleet? (choose one) |
Table 2.3.1.b. Situation with Zero-Emission Vehicles in Fleet by Region and Sector
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| We're not interested and have not considered purchasing a zero-emission vehicle for our fleet |
53% |
33% |
62% |
54% |
55% |
53% |
55% |
50% |
62% |
| We are interested and are considering purchasing a zero-emission vehicle |
35% |
52% |
24% |
38% |
39% |
31% |
38% |
36% |
29% |
| We fully intend to purchase or lease additional zero-emission vehicles |
4% |
5% |
5% |
5% |
3% |
3% |
3% |
5% |
2% |
| We already have one or more zero emission vehicles in our fleet, and we intend to add more |
3% |
1% |
5% |
- |
1% |
6% |
- |
3% |
4% |
| Don't know |
5% |
10% |
5% |
4% |
2% |
6% |
3% |
6% |
3% |
| Q. Which of the following best describes your company's current situation with respect to adding zero-emission vehicles to your fleet? (choose one) |
2.3.2. Reason Non-users Have Not Added A ZEV
There are clearly barriers for many companies in making the move to zero-emission vehicles for their fleets. Among companies that do not have a zero-emission vehicle, the principal reasons for not yet to adding a zero-emission vehicle to their fleet is charging infrastructure. Insufficient public hydrogen fuelling infrastructure (80%) and insufficient electric charging infrastructure (79%) are identified most often.
A lack of opportunities to see and test drive an appropriate ZEV for their company's work is also a key barrier (74%). This is consistent with the low level of experience with ZEVs at the companies in question.
The lack of availability either of the type(s) of vehicle(s) that their company needs (73%) or in terms of the lengthy build and delivery times for ZEVs (57%) also are key barriers for many fleets. The cost of installing charging equipment is of similar significance to availability. The cost of installing hydrogen fuelling equipment (66%) is more of a challenge than for installing electric charging equipment (57%).
- Fleets of different sizes and types generally perceive the barriers to be the same. Mid-sized feels (10-49) are more likely to mention the length of build and delivery times for ZEVs. Large fleets are less likely to be mention the cost of installing electric charging and hydrogen fuelling equipment at their facilities.
- Among those who are interested in ZEVs, the barriers are similar except in two cases. Those interested are more likely to mention a lack of opportunities to test drive and the fact that build and delivery times are too long.
Table 2.3.2.a. Reasons Non-Users Have Not Added a Zero-Emission Vehicle
| Base n=actual (n=326) |
Yes |
No |
Don’t know |
| Public hydrogen fuelling infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
80% |
12% |
8% |
| Public electric charging infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
79% |
16% |
5% |
| There have been no opportunities to see and test drive an appropriate ZEV for our company's work |
74% |
24% |
3% |
| ZEVs are not available in the type(s) of vehicle(s) that our company needs |
73% |
22% |
6% |
| Hydrogen fuelling equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
66% |
20% |
15% |
| Build and delivery times for ZEV are too long |
57% |
30% |
12% |
| Electric charging equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
57% |
33% |
10% |
| Q. [IF NOT A USER] Which of the following considerations are the reasons why your company has not yet decided to add a zero-emission vehicle to your fleet? Please answer yes or no for each one |
Table 2.3.2.b. Reasons Non-Users Have Not Added a Zero-Emission Vehicle (% Yes) by Fleet Size and Type
| Base n=actual (n=326) |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(326) |
< 5
(87) |
5 - 9
(78) |
10 - 49
(129) |
50+
(29) |
Private
(116) |
For Hire
(115) |
Both
(90) |
| Public hydrogen fuelling infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
80% |
76% |
84% |
83% |
65% |
73% |
83% |
85% |
| Public electric charging infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
79% |
77% |
78% |
84% |
68% |
73% |
85% |
81% |
| There have been no opportunities to see and test drive an appropriate ZEV for our company's work |
74% |
66% |
81% |
73% |
80% |
59% |
83% |
80% |
| ZEVs are not available in the type(s) of vehicle(s) that our company needs |
73% |
76% |
69% |
74% |
65% |
72% |
72% |
76% |
| Hydrogen fuelling equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
66% |
75% |
61% |
64% |
41% |
60% |
69% |
69% |
| Build and delivery times for ZEV are too long |
57% |
54% |
51% |
69% |
36% |
56% |
51% |
69% |
| Electric charging equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
57% |
61% |
51% |
63% |
24% |
45% |
62% |
67% |
| Q. [IF NOT A USER] Which of the following considerations are the reasons why your company has not yet decided to add a zero-emission vehicle to your fleet? Please answer yes or no for each one |
Table 2.3.2.c. Reasons Non-Users Have Not Added a Zero-Emission Vehicle By Interest in ZEVs
| |
All non-users |
Non-users interested in ZEVs |
| Base n=actual (n=326) |
(326) |
(127) |
| Public hydrogen fuelling infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
80% |
82% |
| Public electric charging infrastructure is either insufficient or inaccessible |
79% |
74% |
| There have been no opportunities to see and test drive an appropriate ZEV for our company's work |
74% |
80% |
| ZEVs are not available in the type(s) of vehicle(s) that our company needs |
73% |
71% |
| Hydrogen fuelling equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
66% |
62% |
| Build and delivery times for ZEV are too long |
57% |
69% |
| Electric charging equipment is too expensive to install at our facilities |
57% |
53% |
2.3.3. Attitudes about ZEVs
Overall attitudes about ZEVs among companies and organizations with fleets highlight some of the existing challenges with convincing fleets to adopt zero-emission vehicles. Most notably, three quarters strongly agree and 14% somewhat agree that battery-electric vehicles cannot travel far enough on a full charge (90%). A lack of availability of the make and vocation of preferred vehicles (75%) is also a secondary barrier. A majority of companies also struggle to find credible sources of information about ZEVs.
Interestingly, 43% think that having ZEVs in their fleets would save the company money. An equal number reject this idea and 13% are not sure.
- Alberta fleets are more likely than others to think than ZEVs can't travel far enough on a full charge.
Table 2.3.3.a. Statements about Zero-Emission Vehicles
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
Strongly agree |
Somewhat agree |
Somewhat disagree |
Strongly disagree |
Don’t know |
| Battery-electric vehicles can't travel far enough on a full charge to serve our company's operational needs |
75% |
14% |
5% |
3% |
2% |
| The make and vocation of vehicle we prefer isn't available as a ZEV |
50% |
25% |
7% |
9% |
8% |
| It is difficult to find credible sources of information about ZEVs |
29% |
36% |
19% |
11% |
5% |
| Having ZEVs in our fleet would save our company money |
28% |
15% |
14% |
29% |
13% |
| Q. Please indicate whether you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree, or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about zero emission vehicles |
Table 2.3.3.b. Statements about Zero-Emission Vehicles (% Strongly/Somewhat agree) by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| Battery-electric vehicles can't travel far enough on a full charge to serve our company's operational needs |
90% |
87% |
87% |
94% |
90% |
88% |
94% |
87% |
| The make and vocation of vehicle we prefer isn't available as a ZEV |
75% |
73% |
76% |
77% |
75% |
75% |
75% |
79% |
| It is difficult to find credible sources of information about ZEVs |
65% |
63% |
62% |
69% |
73% |
60% |
68% |
71% |
| Having ZEVs in our fleet would save our company money |
43% |
40% |
47% |
42% |
35% |
45% |
33% |
51% |
| Q. Please indicate whether you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about zero emission vehicles |
Table 2.3.3.c. Statements about Zero-Emission Vehicles (% Strongly/Somewhat agree) by Region and Sector
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| Battery-electric vehicles can't travel far enough on a full charge to serve our company's operational needs |
90% |
78% |
99% |
96% |
88% |
90% |
87% |
89% |
91% |
| The make and vocation of vehicle we prefer isn't available as a ZEV |
75% |
75% |
84% |
88% |
71% |
66% |
84% |
78% |
71% |
| It is difficult to find credible sources of information about ZEVs |
65% |
69% |
66% |
73% |
71% |
52% |
74% |
66% |
68% |
| Having ZEVs in our fleet would save our company money |
43% |
50% |
35% |
42% |
40% |
49% |
32% |
45% |
38% |
| Q. Please indicate whether you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about zero emission vehicles |
2.3.4. Cost of Buying New Vehicles for Fleets
16% would be willing to pay more for a ZEV than an equivalent gas or diesel vehicle. If the price was about the same as an equivalent conventional vehicle almost half (49%) would purchase the ZEV. A quarter (27%) would purchase a ZEV is the price was lower than an equivalent conventional vehicle.
- Willingness to pay more is generally consistent across organizational differences. Companies with fleets of less than 5 or between 10 and 49 trucks are more likely to buy if the price is lower.
- Regionally, a willingness to pay more was highest in BC (19%), QC (20%) and ATL (19%).
- Those who have a positive outlook toward ZEVs are much more willing to pay a premium (25% among those who intent to purchase) and are less likely to need the price to be lower.
Table 2.3.4.a. Views on the cost of buying Zero-Emission Vehicles by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
< 5
(91) |
5 - 9
(80) |
10 - 49
(133) |
50+
(30) |
Private
(120) |
For Hire
(118) |
Both
(94) |
| We would be willing to pay more for a zero-emission vehicle than an equivalent gas or diesel vehicle |
16% |
13% |
19% |
16% |
27% |
22% |
15% |
8% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were about the same as an equivalent conventional vehicle |
49% |
47% |
59% |
43% |
62% |
46% |
49% |
56% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were lower than an equivalent conventional vehicle |
27% |
31% |
17% |
32% |
7% |
22% |
30% |
28% |
| Don't know |
8% |
10% |
5% |
9% |
4% |
11% |
6% |
7% |
| Q. With regards to the cost of buying a new vehicle for your fleet, which of the following statements is closest to your company's point of view? |
Table 2.3.4.b. Views on the cost of buying Zero-Emission Vehicles by Region and Sector
| |
TOTAL |
Region |
Sector |
| Base = actual |
(337) |
BC
(42) |
AB
(56) |
SK/MB
(42) |
ON
(89) |
QC
(84) |
ATL
(22) |
Private
(223) |
Public
(100) |
| We would be willing to pay more for a zero-emission vehicle than an equivalent gas or diesel vehicle |
16% |
19% |
13% |
15% |
13% |
20% |
19% |
17% |
14% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were about the same as an equivalent conventional vehicle |
49% |
54% |
42% |
37% |
53% |
54% |
51% |
49% |
54% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were lower than an equivalent conventional vehicle |
27% |
22% |
34% |
41% |
25% |
18% |
26% |
26% |
25% |
| Don't know |
8% |
5% |
11% |
7% |
9% |
7% |
3% |
8% |
7% |
| Q. With regards to the cost of buying a new vehicle for your fleet, which of the following statements is closest to your company's point of view? |
Table 2.3.4.c. Views on the cost of buying Zero-Emission Vehicles by Attitude about ZEVs
| |
Company Attitude about ZEVs |
| Base = actual |
We’re not interested and have not considered purchasing a zero-emission vehicle for our fleet
(185) |
We are interested and are considering purchasing a zero-emission vehicle
(116) |
We fully intend to purchase or lease additional zero-emission vehicles
(11) |
We already have one or more zero emission vehicles in our fleet and we intend to add more
(11) |
| We would be willing to pay more for a zero-emission vehicle than an equivalent gas or diesel vehicle |
9% |
23% |
25% |
33% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were about the same as an equivalent conventional vehicle |
44% |
57% |
62% |
41% |
| We would only buy a zero-emission vehicle if the price were lower than an equivalent conventional vehicle |
36% |
16% |
13% |
13% |
| Don't know |
11% |
4% |
0% |
13% |
- With regards to the cost of buying a new vehicle for your fleet, which of the following statements is closest to your company's point of view?
2.3.5. Barriers when Considering Purchase of ZEVs
Among those who are at least interested in purchasing ZEVs, the top challenges or barriers that come up when considering the purchase of a ZEV for their fleet are general uncertainty about the performance of ZEVs (79%), access to charging/refuelling infrastructure (79%), and lack of trained personnel to maintain and repair these vehicles (74%).
There is also barriers related to uncertainty about the return on investment (66%), competing priorities (66%) and a lack of knowledge (60%) for some companies. Notably, senior management buy-in (31%) is a relatively low barrier.
About one in five mentioned that there were other barriers. Primarily these were mentions of no vehicles/parts available (9 mentions), that ZEVs are too expensive with taxes and insurance (7 mentions), additional issues with a lack of charging (6 mentions) and a lack of training for drivers and companies (1 mention).
While identified barriers are similar across fleets, there are some differences.
- Smaller fleets are more likely to identify lack of funds and lack of human resources.
- The largest fleets (50 or more) are more likely to identify a lack of trained personnel to maintain and repair vehicles.
- A lack of senior management buy-in is more likely to be an issue for those with 5 to 9 vehicles.
- For-hire fleets are more likely to view uncertainty about the return on investment, uncertainty about the performance and access to alternative fuel charging as a challenge or barrier.
Table 2.3.5.a. Challenges when considering Zero-Emission Vehicles
| Base n=actual (n=138) |
Yes |
No |
| Uncertainty about the performance |
79% |
21% |
| Access to alternative fuel charging or refuelling infrastructure |
79% |
21% |
| Lack of trained personnel to maintain and repair these vehicles |
74% |
26% |
| Uncertainty about the return on investment |
66% |
34% |
| Competing operational priorities |
66% |
34% |
| Lack of knowledge |
60% |
40% |
| Lack of human resources or time |
52% |
48% |
| Lack of funds |
46% |
54% |
| Concerns that ZEV would disrupt our operations |
44% |
56% |
| Lack of senior management buy-in |
31% |
69% |
| Anything else |
18% |
82% |
| Q. Which of the following challenges or barriers, if any, has your company encountered when considering the purchase of a ZEV for your fleet?
|
Table 2.3.5.b. Challenges when considering Zero-Emission Vehicles (% Yes) by Fleet Size and Type
| |
TOTAL |
# Vehicles in Fleet |
Type of Vehicle |
| Base = actual |
(138) |
< 5
(30 |
5 - 9
(38) |
10 - 49
(54) |
50+
(16) |
Private
(54) |
For Hire
(38) |
Both
(47) |
| Uncertainty about the performance |
79% |
64% |
81% |
87% |
85% |
67% |
95% |
79% |
| Access to alternative fuel charging or refuelling infrastructure |
79% |
82% |
69% |
84% |
81% |
65% |
87% |
89% |
| Lack of trained personnel to maintain and repair these vehicles |
74% |
68% |
71% |
74% |
100% |
66% |
82% |
75% |
| Uncertainty about the return on investment |
66% |
66% |
51% |
77% |
66% |
53% |
84% |
64% |
| Competing operational priorities |
66% |
66% |
58% |
68% |
82% |
57% |
70% |
74% |
| Lack of knowledge |
60% |
60% |
52% |
67% |
59% |
51% |
72% |
60% |
| Lack of human resources or time |
52% |
56% |
54% |
50% |
35% |
50% |
51% |
52% |
| Lack of funds |
46% |
58% |
53% |
37% |
21% |
46% |
39% |
50% |
| Concerns that ZEV would disrupt our operations |
44% |
40% |
47% |
48% |
21% |
41% |
44% |
47% |
| Lack of senior management buy-in |
31% |
42% |
12% |
39% |
22% |
28% |
35% |
28% |
| Anything else |
18% |
19% |
12% |
20% |
21% |
23% |
20% |
11% |
| Q. Which of the following challenges or barriers, if any, has your company encountered when considering the purchase of a ZEV for your fleet? |
2.4. Company Approach to New Vehicles and Eco-driving Training
2.4.1. New Vehicle Technologies
The approach that fleets are taking with respect to ZEVs is largely aligned with how they approach other fuel saving technologies. The 7% who have or intend to purchase a ZEV aligns with the 12% who think of themselves as early adopters. There are still self-perceived early adopters who have not committed to ZEVs but most have done so.
Table 2.4.a. Company’s views on New Vehicle Technologies
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| We are early adopters of technologies who earn a good return on investment on technologies |
12% |
| We test and adopt fuel-saving technologies after seeing evidence of their effectiveness in other fleets |
21% |
| We purchase mature, proven fuel-saving technologies only if there is overwhelming evidence of their return-on-investment |
37% |
| We don't consider fuel-saving technologies if they increase costs because the return-on-investment is difficult to quantify |
30% |
| Q. How would you identify your company's approach to adopting new vehicle technologies? Choose one statement from the following: |
2.4.2. Eco-driving Training
One in three (35%) indicate that they offer eco-driving training to their drivers.
Table 2.4.b. Eco-driving training to drivers
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Yes |
35% |
| No |
64% |
| Don’t know |
1% |
| Q. Does your company offer eco-driving training to its truck drivers? |
Among those who offer eco-driving training, 39% offer less than 10 hours per year and 42% offer 11 to 49 hours.
Table 2.4.c. Eco-driving training to drivers
| Base n=actual (n=126) |
% |
| None |
8% |
| Less than 10 hours |
39% |
| 11-50 hours |
42% |
| 50+ hours |
7% |
| Don't Know / Refused |
4% |
| Q. For each driver, approximately how many hours per year does your company allocate for eco-driving training? Is it... |
2.5. Respondent Profile
Table 2.5.a. Type of fleet
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Private |
37% |
| For hire |
34% |
| Both |
27% |
| Don't know / Refused |
2% |
| Q. Is your fleet: |
Table 2.5.b. Number of drivers in your company
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Less than 4 |
26% |
| 5-9 |
17% |
| 10-49 |
23% |
| 50+ |
5% |
| Don't Know / Refused |
1% |
| Q. How many drivers does your company employ? |
Table 2.5.c. Number of trucks in your company fleet
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Less than 5 |
33% |
| 5 to 9 |
26% |
| 10 to 49 |
35% |
| 50+ |
6% |
| Don't Know |
1% |
| Q. How many trucks are in your company's fleet? |
Table 2.5.4. Type of trucks in your company fleet
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Refrigerated / Package / Specialized / Expedited / Tanker / Flatbed / Mixed |
68% |
| Dry van |
43% |
| Heavy haul |
39% |
| Auto-carrier |
7% |
| Garbage trucks |
6% |
| Cubed van |
24% |
| Work truck |
33% |
| Other |
18% |
| Don't Know / Refused |
- |
| Q. Which of the following trucks are in your fleet? |
Table 2.5.e. Number of trucks in your company fleet
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Last mile |
29% |
| Regional Delivery |
68% |
| Long haul |
64% |
| Don't Know / Refused |
1% |
| Q. Are your trucks used for... |
Table 2.4.f. Average: trucks less than five years
| Base n=actual (n=337) |
% |
| Average |
57.4 |
| Q. What percentage of trucks in your fleet are less than five years old?
|
