Fleet Electrification: Depot EV Charging for Fleets

With the UK moving rapidly towards a net-zero transport future, more businesses are switching to electric fleets to reduce emissions, cut costs, and future-proof operations. But electrifying a fleet involves more than just choosing the right vehicles — it’s about building the right charging infrastructure.

For many operators, depot EV charging is the cornerstone of successful fleet electrification. Whether you manage delivery vans, company cars, or service vehicles, installing EV chargers at your own premises offers greater control, reliability, and long-term cost savings.

Why Fleets Are Moving to Electric

Fleet electrification is accelerating across the UK for several reasons:

Lower running costs: Electricity is cheaper than diesel or petrol per mile.
Reduced maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean less downtime and lower servicing costs.
Government incentives: Schemes such as the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) help reduce installation costs.
Sustainability targets: Many UK businesses are committing to zero-emission transport ahead of 2035.

By switching to electric, businesses can save thousands in fuel while demonstrating environmental leadership.

Learn more in our blog: EV Fleet vs Fuel Fleet: How Much Can You Really Save?

What Is Depot EV Charging?

Depot charging refers to installing EV chargers at a central fleet location, such as a warehouse, office, or logistics hub. Vehicles are charged while parked overnight or between shifts, ensuring they’re ready for the next day’s operations.

There are two main types of depot charging setups:

AC charging (7kW–22kW): Ideal for overnight charging of vans and light commercial vehicles.
DC fast charging (50kW+): Perfect for fleets with quick turnaround times or higher daily mileage.

A combination of both often provides the best flexibility for mixed-use fleets.

Find out more about charging speeds in our blog: Understanding EV Charging Speeds: Should You Choose a Single Phase or Three Phase Cable?

Key Considerations When Installing Depot Charging

Before setting up your depot charging solution, it’s important to plan carefully.

1. Assess Fleet Needs

Understand your vehicles’ battery sizes, daily mileage, and turnaround times. This helps determine how many chargers and what power ratings you’ll need.

2. Plan for Scalability

As your fleet grows, your charging capacity should grow with it. Choose chargers that can be upgraded or networked for future expansion.

3. Electrical Supply & Load Management

Work with a qualified installer to assess your site’s grid capacity. Smart charging systems can balance energy use across multiple vehicles to avoid overloading circuits.

4. Access & Layout

Ensure chargers are positioned for easy access, especially for larger vans or LCVs. Consider parking flow, cable management, and safety signage.

5. Software & Monitoring

Smart fleet charging platforms allow you to schedule sessions, track energy usage, and monitor costs — vital for large-scale operations.

Benefits of Depot Charging for Fleets

Cost control: Charge during off-peak hours to save on energy costs.
Operational efficiency: Vehicles charge while parked, minimising downtime.
Data insights: Track energy use and optimise charging schedules.
Sustainability: Reduce fleet emissions and meet corporate ESG goals.
Energy flexibility: Integrate renewable energy or battery storage in the future.

Recommended Equipment for Fleet Charging

Most electric fleet vehicles use a Type 2 connector, the European standard for AC charging. Businesses can choose between:

7kW single-phase chargers – for cars and vans with longer dwell times.
22kW three-phase chargers – for faster charging at depots or warehouses.
DC rapid chargers – for high-mileage or time-sensitive operations.

Explore EVwired’s Type 2 charging cables perfect for fleet and workplace EV charging, featuring a 5-year warranty, free UK delivery, and durable heavy-duty design.

Government Support for Fleet Electrification

The UK Government’s Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) offers up to £350 per socket (for up to 40 sockets) towards the installation of EV chargers at business premises.

You can learn more about eligibility and how to apply through the official GOV.UK Workplace Charging Scheme page.

As businesses look to cut costs and carbon emissions, depot EV charging is becoming an essential part of fleet electrification. With the right setup, companies can enjoy lower running costs, improved efficiency, and a smoother transition to zero-emission transport.

Looking to open a trade account? Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help your fleet stay in charge.

Louise O'Connell