Like many professionals considering their next vehicle, I, too, explored the world of electric cars for my company car this year. More than just a fleeting thought, transitioning to electric was a deliberate decision, fueled by my early adopter spirit and appreciation for innovation, much like my passion for e-commerce.
For anyone in a similar position, especially sales representatives who spend considerable time on the road, there are three crucial questions that typically arise when thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV):
- What are the real costs for the company and the employee in terms of Benefit in Kind (BIK)?
- Is range anxiety a legitimate concern in daily operations?
- How practical is charging, both at home and on the road?
I delved deep into each of these aspects, and I’m eager to share my firsthand experience to help other sales reps evaluate if an electric car is the right move for them.
Addressing Key Concerns for Sales Reps Considering Electric Cars
Cost-Effectiveness: Beyond the Initial Price Tag
Initially, electric cars might seem more expensive than their traditional petrol or diesel counterparts. However, a closer look at the overall financial picture reveals a different story, especially for businesses and company car users. Tax reliefs, significantly reduced Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax, and lower servicing costs make EVs surprisingly competitive with premium brands like BMW, Audi, or Mercedes. Furthermore, the running costs are significantly lower. The 4p per mile electricity rate for EVs is far more appealing compared to the 11-12p per mile fuel costs of conventional cars.
From a personal BIK perspective, the tax advantages are substantial. With rates at 0%, 1%, and 2% for the initial three years, the taxable benefit for an electric company car is minimal, translating to significant personal savings. This makes an electric car a financially smart choice for sales reps and their companies.
Range Anxiety: Debunking the Myth for Sales Professionals
Range anxiety is a common concern, particularly for those accustomed to the extensive range of fuel-based vehicles. As a sales representative who previously clocked 30,000 miles annually, traveling across the country for business – from Cornwall to Hastings and Glasgow – I understand this apprehension. However, advancements in EV technology have led to impressive ranges in newer models.
Opting for a Polestar 2 with a 250-mile range (real-world), I’ve found range anxiety to be largely unfounded in my daily professional life. Modern electric cars offer sufficient range for most sales-related travel needs. While extreme cold weather can slightly reduce range due to battery heating, careful planning and understanding of real-world range mitigates any practical issues.
Charging Solutions: Home, Office, and On-the-Go for Sales Mobility
The question of charging is central to EV ownership. For maximum convenience and cost-effectiveness, installing a wall box charger at home is highly recommended. Utilizing off-peak electricity tariffs, like Octopus Go, enables overnight charging at significantly reduced rates – around 1.5p per mile in my experience. This makes daily “refueling” at home both simple and economical.
For charging on the road, public charging networks are becoming increasingly robust. Networks like BP Pulse offer broad coverage and competitive pricing, ensuring that sales reps can reliably charge their vehicles while traveling for meetings and client visits across the country. Planning journeys around charging points and utilizing route planning apps designed for EVs further streamlines the process.
A Day in the Life: Electric Car Journeys for a Sales Rep
Let’s illustrate a typical long journey in an electric car from a sales rep’s perspective. Before setting off on an extended trip, I ensure the car is charged to 100%. While some manufacturers advise limiting regular charging to 90% to preserve battery health, a full charge is beneficial for maximizing range on longer drives. It’s important to note that frequent 100% charges should be avoided for optimal battery longevity.
On a typical warm day, my Polestar 2 provides approximately 250 miles of range, while colder conditions might reduce this to around 180 miles. Effective trip planning involves identifying charging locations strategically, prioritizing sites with multiple chargers, such as Newport Pagnell Bus station or Lancaster Park and Ride. This approach minimizes the risk of waiting for an available charger. Having a backup charging option with a different provider is also a prudent measure. I’ve personally not needed to resort to the slow “granny charger” (standard 3-pin plug), which would take an impractical 34 hours for a full charge.
Charging stops are efficiently integrated into travel days. These breaks become opportunities to utilize facilities, catch up on emails and calls, or grab a quick meal, turning charging time into productive downtime. Furthermore, understanding charging speeds is key. Charging from 20% to 80% is considerably faster than charging from 80% to 100%, as the charging rate slows down to protect the battery at higher charge levels. Therefore, for efficient travel, it’s often quicker to charge to around 80-85% and plan for another shorter charging stop if needed.
When arriving at a destination hotel, I prioritize charging either in the evening or before breakfast to avoid any charging queues and ensure the car is ready for the next day’s appointments. For same-day return trips, a shorter top-up charge might suffice.
My longest journey to date was a 230-mile overnight trip from Shropshire to Essex. I arrived in Essex with 18% battery remaining, plugged in to charge overnight, and then added a quick 20-minute charge in Coventry on the way back home. This experience demonstrated the practicality of electric cars even for longer business trips.
Having covered 6,000 miles in my electric car for both work and personal use, the transition has been seamless. While journey planning is necessary, these planned stops offer valuable breaks. Is taking a pause during a long drive truly a disadvantage? I’ve found it to be a positive aspect of electric car travel.
Verdict: Should a Sales Rep Go Electric?
If you’re a sales representative considering an electric car for your next company vehicle, my experience strongly suggests taking the plunge. The financial benefits, coupled with the practical range and growing charging infrastructure, make it a compelling choice. Crucially, investing in a home charger significantly simplifies EV ownership and eliminates charging anxieties. Government grants are still available in some regions to assist with the installation of home chargers, further reducing the initial investment. Embrace the electric revolution – it’s a smart move for both your career and the environment.
