Shared charging hubs for fleets are gaining momentum as organisations look for practical and cost-effective ways to advance fleet electrification. While current shared charging models are mostly small-scale and use existing infrastructure, new initiatives are making is easier for organisations to collaborate. 

One example is the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) project. The project involves creating an online platform to connect fleets that have spare charging capacity with those in need. It’s supported by the AFP’s shared charging committee – including organisations like the AA, National Grid, and Royal Mail – and will include matchmaking features and booking capabilities. This reflects a growing interest among fleet operators. For example, a recent survey by Baringa and Field Dynamics found that 62% of AFP van fleet managers are open to mutual depot sharing access. Additionally, 58% are considering public sharing to support EV adoption. 

Another approach is the Private Infrastructure Network Solution (PINS) project, developed by Paua in collaboration with Cenex, Oxfordshire County Council, and Suffolk Council. Supported by the Department for Transport, the project explores how fleets can collaboratively manage charging needs to increase usage and reduce downtime. PINS combines public sector backing with private expertise to address the logistical challenges of shared infrastructure and make charging more efficient. 

Charging infrastructure for heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) is limited due to high costs and the relatively new nature of this market segment. The Welch Group, in partnership with Voltloader, is tackling this by opening its charging sites to other fleet operators. The initiative aims to reduce sector-wide emissions while addressing access challenges for HDV charging. 

These examples show how shared charging hubs, backed by partnerships and government funding, are emerging as sustainable solutions for fleet decarbonisation. While still in the early stages, they show that shared hubs could ease the transition to electric fleets by offering adaptable, collaborative, and cost-efficient charging solutions.