Expert insights backed by experience

Zeroing In is a bold, expert-led series that cuts through the noise around the transition to electric and delivers a fresh, actionable perspective on the road to electromobility - straight from the people driving the change. 

Straight talking.  Making complex topics clear

We’re not here to echo what’s already being said. Zeroing In gives space to our experts to offer their own perspective on the shift to electromobility, and what it means for planning, infrastructure, operations and sustained commercial success. All done in a clear, straight talking way, making complex topics clear and simple, equipping you with real usable knowledge.

Fleet Electrification: A Practical Roadmap for the Transition to Electric Vehicles

Climate change is reshaping transport, and the shift to electric vehicles is no longer optional — it’s underway. For many HGV operators, the challenge is knowing where to start: is it cost, charging, operational feasibility, or simply understanding the options? 

Zeroing In by Renault Trucks is designed to simplify the transition to electric vehicles, helping businesses navigate this change with clarity and confidence. 

Why Fleet Electrification is Becoming Business-Critical

Decarbonisation of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) is moving rapidly up the business agenda. The total cost of ownership (TCO) for electric HGVs is improving, with battery prices dropping by more than 80% since 2013. At the same time, customers are demanding cleaner supply chains, and contracts increasingly specify low-emission transport. 

Early adopters benefit from: 

• Lower long-term running costs 
• Stronger sustainability credentials 
• Preferential access to low-emission contracts 

And contrary to common concern, there is enough electricity capacity to support HGV fleet electrification, provided businesses start planning now. 

 From Cars and Vans to HGVs 

Passenger cars have already embraced electric, vans are accelerating quickly, and now HGVs are entering the market at scale. Registrations of electric HGVs in the UK reached record highs in early 2025. 

Urban and regional transport, particularly base-to-base operations, are prime candidates to begin the transition to electric vehicles. 

First Steps in the Transition to Electric Vehicles

The first step for operators is assessing operational feasibility. This means reviewing: 

• Depot power supply
• Routes suitable for electrification 
• Available charging infrastructure 

Through the electric vehicle discovery programme, businesses can trial short-term electric HGV hire to test solutions in real-world conditions. A dedicated energy transition team can also support with route mapping, site assessments, and depot charging requirements. 

Understanding EV Efficiency – The New MPG 

In diesel, efficiency is measured in miles per gallon (MPG). For electric HGVs, the standard measure is kilowatt hours per 100 kilometres (kWh/100 km). 

Key points to remember: 

• Bigger batteries don’t always mean better range — they can reduce payload and increase charging needs. 
• Efficiency is critical: a truck consuming 22 kWh/100 km is significantly more cost-effective than one at 29. Over four years, that difference could save more than £3,000 in electricity costs. 

When comparing vehicles, operators should always ask for the EV efficiency rating in kWh/100 km. 

Translating Diesel Terms into Electric Terms 

For businesses used to diesel, the language of electrification may sound unfamiliar — but the concepts are similar: 

• Range = how far the vehicle can travel 
• State of Charge (SOC) = the fuel gauge equivalent 
• Efficiency = kWh per kilometre 

When it comes to charging infrastructure, new terms come into play: 

• KVA (kilovolt ampere) = site power capacity for EV charging 
• Distribution Network Operator (DNO) = the company supplying electricity from the grid to depots 

Building the Right Charging Infrastructure 

Understanding KVA and depot power supply is essential for scaling electric HGV fleets. Engaging with DNOs, charge point providers, and energy consultants ensures your sites have the capacity to charge the required number of vehicles — both now and in the future. 

By asking the right questions about power supply, site capacity, and vehicle efficiency, businesses can make confident decisions to support their fleet electrification journey. 

The Road Ahead 

The transition to electric vehicles is not just a technological shift — it’s a business transformation. With the right planning, support, and partnerships, operators can future-proof their fleets, reduce costs, and meet growing customer expectations for sustainable transport. 

What’s Next: The Zeroing In Series

This blog is the first in Renault Trucks’ Zeroing In series, designed to give operators practical guidance on the journey to fleet electrification. 

Keep an eye out for upcoming articles where we’ll dive deeper into topics such as charging strategies, EV efficiency metrics, depot power planning, and total cost of ownership (TCO). Each instalment will provide the insights you need to move confidently towards a zero-emission fleet. 

Stay tuned, the roadmap to the future of transport is only just beginning. 

More in our Zeroing In series

Getting Started

Electric trucks are here. What’s holding you back? Power, cost, complexity - or just knowing where to start? with Roger Clarke, Head of Electromobility

EV Efficiency

Challenge the assumption that bigger batteries are better with Grahame Neagus, LCV Manager.

Speaking EV

How to start thinking electric, shifting from fuel delivery to grid-based energy planning with Andrew Roberts, Electromobility Charging Specialist.