Researchers at Munich’s Bundeswehr University have conducted a study demonstrating that life-cycle emissions can be reduced by up to 89% through the use of electric vehicles powered by green electricity (source).
But how does it all work out in everyday life? There is still concern among some with regard to the driving distance covered by electric vehicles, particularly when it comes to professional use and the potential loss of productivity during working hours.
Flip van Dalen has been part of DMG’s external sales force for the Benelux countries since 2011. Two years ago, he swapped his internal combustion engine car for an electric one because he wanted to drive with low emissions. What are his experiences, and what tips can he give?
Efficient driving through good planning
Opting for an electric car requires good planning of the routes you take at work. Flip van Dalen: “Depending on the weather conditions, my electric car can drive between 320 and 380 km on one charge. I try to organise my client appointments so that they are not too far from one another. Even in those cases where a break for charging cannot be avoided, it doesn’t actually cost me any extra working time. The charging time is 40 minutes on average, during which I can have lunch, call my clients or take care of administrative matters”.
What to keep in mind
Our colleague has the following tip on purchasing an electric car: “The range of the EV battery is important, but the time it takes to fully recharge it is equally as important. The newer battery types (800 V) charge twice as fast and have fewer issues concerning reduced driving distances in the winter months. There are also very useful apps to indicate where the nearest charging points are and whether they are vacant”.
A positive experience
Having used an electric car in the field for two years and driven some 100,000 kilometres, Flip van Dalen is still really proud of his decision and particularly enjoys its quiet and smooth driving experience. “In the past, I only had that floating sensation after closing a good deal. Now, it’s like floating every time I sit in the car …”