7 Key Considerations for Electrifying Your Fleet

As the world moves towards greener and more sustainable practices, electrifying your fleet is an impactful way to reduce your carbon footprint and embrace future-ready technology. At Endera, we understand the challenges and considerations that come with this transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the fundamentals to think about when electrifying your fleet.

1. Assessing Your Fleet’s Needs

The first step in electrifying your fleet is understanding its specific needs and usage patterns. Consider the following factors:

• Route Analysis: Evaluate the daily routes of your vehicles. How far do they travel on average? What is the maximum distance they cover in a day?

• Load Requirements: Determine the typical load your vehicles carry. Ensure that the electric vehicles (EVs) you choose can handle the weight without compromising performance.

• Operational Hours: Understand the operating hours of your fleet. Do your vehicles run multiple shifts, or do they have downtime for charging?

By analyzing these factors, you can identify which vehicles in your fleet are best suited for electrification and the type of electric vehicles that will meet your needs.

 2. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

When transitioning to electric vehicles, it’s essential to consider the total cost of ownership rather than just the upfront purchase price. Key components of TCO include:

• Initial Investment: While electric vehicles can have a higher initial cost, incentives, rebates, and tax credits can offset this expense.

• Fuel Costs: Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel, resulting in significant savings on fuel over time.

• Maintenance Costs: EVs have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than internal combustion engine vehicles. This leads to lower maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle.

• Resale Value: Consider the long-term value retention of electric vehicles. As demand for EVs grows, their resale value is likely to remain strong.

3. Charging Infrastructure

A crucial aspect of electrifying your fleet is establishing a reliable and efficient charging infrastructure. Key considerations include:

• Charging Locations: Identify where your vehicles will be charged. This could be at a central depot, or on-site charging stations.

• Charging Speed: Determine the required charging speed based on your fleet’s operational needs. Level 2 chargers are suitable for overnight charging, while DC fast chargers are ideal for quick turnarounds.

• Grid Capacity: Ensure that your facility’s electrical infrastructure can support the additional load from EV charging. Upgrading your electrical system may be necessary.

• Management Software: Invest in a charging management system to monitor and optimize the charging process, ensuring efficient energy use and cost savings.

4. Vehicle Selection

Selecting the right electric vehicles for your fleet is crucial for a successful transition. Consider the following:

• Range: Choose vehicles with a range that comfortably covers your daily routes, including any unexpected detours or additional stops.

• Payload Capacity: Ensure that the EVs can handle your typical cargo loads without compromising performance or range.

• Special Features: Look for features that meet your operational needs, such as advanced driver-assistance systems, telematics, and connectivity options.

5. Incentives and Rebates

Take advantage of the various incentives and rebates available for electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. These can significantly reduce the cost of electrification:

• Federal Incentives: Many countries offer federal tax credits and incentives for purchasing electric vehicles and installing charging stations.

• State and Local Incentives: Additional incentives may be available at the state or local level, including rebates, grants, and reduced registration fees.

• Utility Programs: Some utility companies offer incentives for installing EV chargers, as well as special electricity rates for EV owners.

6. Training and Support

Transitioning to an electric fleet involves more than just purchasing new vehicles. Ensure that your team is well-prepared with proper training and support:

• Driver Training: Provide training for drivers on how to operate electric vehicles efficiently, including tips for maximizing range and utilizing regenerative braking.

• Maintenance Training: Equip your maintenance team with the knowledge and tools needed to service electric vehicles.

• Customer Support: Choose a manufacturer that offers robust customer support and assistance throughout the transition process.

7. Environmental and Social Responsibility

Electrifying your fleet is not only a financial decision but also a commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing your environmental impact, you contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet and demonstrate leadership in sustainable practices.

Conclusion

Electrifying your fleet is a significant step towards a sustainable future, offering long-term cost savings, environmental benefits, and enhanced operational efficiency. By carefully considering your fleet’s needs, total cost of ownership, charging infrastructure, vehicle selection, available incentives, and training requirements, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition.

At Endera, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how our electric vehicles and solutions can help you achieve your fleet electrification goals. Together, we can drive towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Endera's Remarkable Journey in 2023: A Year in Review

As we bid farewell to 2023, the Endera team is excited to reflect on the incredible milestones and achievements that have defined our journey throughout the year. It has been a year of growth, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the realm of sustainable mobility.

Mission Impact: Accelerating the Transition to Clean Mobility

In 2019, we embarked on a mission to end the era of fossil fuels, and 2023 has been a pivotal year in advancing that cause. Our commitment to accelerating the transition to clean mobility has driven every aspect of our operations.

Product Excellence: Setting the Standard for Electric Vehicles

Endera continued to design and manufacture a diverse range of all-electric vehicles that set new standards for reliability, advanced technology, cost-effectiveness, and energy efficiency. Our vehicles have not only met but exceeded expectations, making a significant impact on the industry.

Market Leadership: Delivering Cutting-edge Commercial Electric Vehicles

With unwavering dedication to our mission, Endera proudly stands as the leader in delivering cutting-edge, high-quality commercial electric vehicles to the market. Rapid growth has been a testament to the demand for our innovative and eco-friendly solutions.

Innovation and Sustainability: A Driving Force

In 2023, innovation remained at the forefront of our endeavors. Endera's commitment to environmental preservation was evident in the creation of vehicles specifically designed to reduce carbon emissions. The year saw us pushing the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable transportation.

Vertical Integration: Shaping a New Era of Clean Mobility

As a vertically integrated Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Endera continued to shape a new era of clean mobility. This approach allowed us to maintain control over the entire production process, ensuring the highest quality and innovation in our products.

Forbes Recognition:

Top 100 America's Best Startup Employers

One of the most exciting highlights of 2023 was Endera's inclusion in the prestigious top 100 on Forbes' list of America's Best Startup Employers. This recognition speaks volumes about the dedication and talent of our team.

Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit:

One of the year's crowning achievements was our Founder and CEO, John Walsh's inspiring speech at the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit. The summit provided a platform for Endera to showcase our dedication to equipping fleets with zero-emission technology and paving the way for a greener future.

Watch the video here:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/premium-video/2023/10/19/2023-forbes-under-30-summit--its-electric-building-a-million-dollar-fleet-fit-for-a-greener-future/?sh=55d0329d469f

As we look back on 2023, Endera is not just a company; it's a force driving positive change in the world of transportation. The milestones achieved and the recognition received are testaments to our team’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Thank you to our supporters, partners, and the entire Endera team for an incredible year. Here's to an even more exciting and impactful 2024!

Endera Celebrates a Stellar Year

Top 5 Accomplishments 

Endera Becomes a Player in All-Electric Powertrains

Endera is proud to announce the launch of its all-electric powertrain. This patent-pending design, marking a significant milestone in electrification, allows for the ultimate in both safety and performance by locating batteries and all high voltage infrastructure within the frame rails. The new technology also promises best-in-class fast charging. Endera’s commercial electric vehicles are ideal for airport parking, universities, school districts, and hospitals, and set the standard for reliability, safety, and quality with superior range efficiency. View Endera’s Powertrain. 

2. Endera Solidifies Leadership Role with Major Acquisition

In April of 2021 Endera acquired Metro Titan, LLC. With this acquisition, the company expanded its capabilities, and is now offering the safest and most reliable Type A School Buses available in the industry. In 2022 and beyond, Endera’s new facility in Ottawa, Ohio will lead domestic manufacturing of zero-emissions cut-away shuttle and paratransit buses. The acquisition included well-trained factory workers, and the capability to deliver electric commercial vehicles in all 50 states. Check out our new space here.  

3. Endera CEO Spotlighted on Forbes 30 Under 30: Energy

John Walsh, founder, and CEO of Endera was recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30: Energy, as well as the publication’s top ten emerging talents Green Energy Transition list. 

4. Endera Go for Riders and Endera Dispatch for Fleets Launch

Endera’s proprietary app, Endera Go, allows riders to see live bus locations, obtain accurate ETAs, and view seat availability in real-time. The Endera Go app helps to ease travel anxiety that comes along with getting to and from the airport. 

Endera Dispatch is web-based Intelligent Transportation Solution Software with real-time updates and interaction with fleets. The app’s intuitive design makes identifying and managing vehicles easy – fleets can now view, move, and monitor vehicles from anywhere with an internet connection. Customers will benefit from easy-to-read reporting with excellent functionality to help accurately assess their fleets’ health. 

5. San Diego International Airport’s Clean Shuttle Swap

Endera customized eight electric shuttles for SP+, the airport’s parking operations partner. With these clean vehicles, SP+ forecasts significant savings on maintenance costs and a 60% reduction on fuel costs. SP+ will benefit from better service to their fleets with minimal downtime. SP+ will take advantage of Endera’s ridership data and fleet performance to enhance riders’ experiences. See why SP+ partnered with Endera.  

Endera by the Numbers 

1. 250 EV Order & Partnership with Pritchard  

2. 61 new hires/ employees 

3. 250,000 + square feet of manufacturing space          

Endera is proud of our accomplishments in 2021, we hope to do so much more in 2022. Remember, if you would like to support Endera, please consider signing up for our newsletters and following our social media channels to keep up with us in 2022! 

4 Reasons Why Using Electric Shuttles Will Lower Your Maintenance Costs

Electric Vehicles will continue to decrease in price and become more affordable for your fleet, but many fail to see how affordable they are now. The most significant cost associated with electric vehicle production is the battery. Thankfully, advancements in battery capacity and efficiency are simultaneously lowering the cost of production. Lithium battery prices by weight have decreased a staggering 83% over the past ten years. But let’s face it, the sticker price on the EV you’ve been shopping is still a little frightening.

The problem with electric vehicle pricing is that it fails to convey the benefits EVs bring from the total cost of ownership perspective. To understand the total cost of owning an electric shuttle fleet, we factor in the savings from reducing fuel costs and maintenance overall. The energy efficiency of electric vehicles also drastically lowers fuel costs for your fleet. In other articles, we have compared the sustainability and expenses of using fuels such as Diesel, Clean Natural Gas, and Renewable Natual Gas. While the reduction in cost from fuel savings is immense, we must not forget about the savings in maintenance costs. Maintenance doesn’t only contribute significantly to your fleet’s costs but also your time as a fleet operator.

1. Reduced Routine Maintenance

On average, there are around 1,500 moving parts inside an internal combustion engine vehicle. Each of these components creates an opportunity for wear and tear through friction and heat. As with any engine, parts need to be replaced to prevent further wear or correct an issue. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, benefit from their simplified drive system. This eliminates the need for high-ticket routine maintenance like engine oil, spark plugs, or brake jobs. Regenerative braking systems help with your fuel efficiency and extend your brakes’ lifespan drastically. Most fleet owners can expect to quadruple their brake life. Your recurring maintenance costs will drop significantly, and you can benefit as the fleet operator by reducing time in the shop by sticking just to brake jobs and tires.

2. Corrective Maintenance 

Internal combustion engine vehicles are prone to failure from their complex drive systems. When a problem does occur, this means returning the vehicle to your maintenance facility and downtime for your fleet vehicle. Fleets must not only be prepared for this possibility but also consider how maintenance may increase. Fleet service specialists at Fleet Advantage reported that vehicles in their 4th to 6th year in operation can expect 2.75X greater maintenance costs than the vehicles in their 1st to 3rd year in operation. Electric Vehicles are expecting maintenance costs to decrease in future years as the technology becomes even more reliable. Electric vehicles have far fewer parts that could fail or require replacement, contributing to significant maintenance savings.

3. Maintenance Planning

Planning routine maintenance and responding to a vehicle failure can cause headaches for fleet managers. Another significant advantage of operating an electric fleet is the ability to better plan your maintenance cycles and forecast costs more accurately. The software that runs your EV is packed with valuable data that helps you understand vehicle performance. Using machine learning, this software will also better predict and respond to problems inside the vehicle. Engineers can also use this modeling to make adjustments to vehicles in real-time through push updates from the cloud. Ultimately, this reduces the total downtime of your fleet vehicles and overall operational costs. 

4. Total Cost Reduction

Electric vehicles are very beneficial to fleets by reducing routine maintenance, downtime, and the risk of engine failure. Although the savings from maintenance are small compared to fuel savings, EVs will save you hours planning and waiting for maintenance to be completed. One of our Southern California clients saw an overall 25% reduction in maintenance costs, representing a 5% reduction in overall costs. If you are looking to reduce your fleet’s operational costs, electric vehicles are a reliable strategy. Despite the higher sticker price, using electric shuttles will significantly reduce your fuel and maintenance costs. As a fleet owner or operator, you will see many other benefits besides reducing your operating budget from switching to electric too. The technology used in EVs naturally makes your maintenance stress-free and will keep your vehicle running more efficiently and consistently.

Partner Spotlight: Environmental Lights

Our partners are what put us at the forefront of the EV industry. Endera was founded on the idea of disrupting the transportation industry by creating a superior zero emission vehicle that competes with fossil fuel counterparts and raises the fleet electrification bar.

Specializing in commercial electric vehicles, charging stations and software solutions, our goal is to help fleets cut CO2 emissions from the environment as well as support the adoption of sustainable energy.

We partner with companies who share our passion and who can provide expertise and dependable products that align with our mission.

Endera vehicle with Environmental Lights

Environmental Lights is one of those partners. Endera’s goal to transform rider experience by adding small details to not only create a personalized brand experience, but also the ambiance of lower light levels to create an atmosphere of relaxation and restfulness was met through this partnership. Environmental Lights LED lighting technology is 100% American made and have the same end goal to provide a sustainable solution and transformative experience for their customers.

We are proud to partner with Environmental Lights, a leader in LED lighting solutions to create a safe, well-lit onboard environment with high quality, sustainable lighting.

Want to learn more about Environmental Lights? Check out our gallery on their website!