As timelines for reducing environmental pollution tighten and upfront purchase costs drop, more businesses are retiring their vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) in favor of electric vehicles (EVs). Here are the things you should and shouldn’t do as you start the transition for your fleet.

You should:

Decide on a transition plan

To accomplish your long-term, eco-friendly goals, you’ll need a formal deployment plan. Determine how many EVs you’ll purchase each year and which vehicles they will replace. Knowing how deployment will impact your bottom line can help you plan for the future.

Factor in range needs

Many EVs offer over 200 miles of range on a single charge, but some can travel closer to 400 miles. Determine the routes your drivers take and the availability of charging stations so you can decide on the best EV replacement candidates that will fit the needs of your drivers.

Properly install charging stations

Do your research and compare all available options before signing on the dotted line. Consider what level charging you need, acquire the proper permits, check your facility’s available power supply, and find an experienced and certified installer.

You shouldn’t:

Ignore incentives and credits

Available credits, incentives and rebates can make the purchase cost cheaper. The federal EV tax credit may apply to your vehicles. Many state and local governments offer tax incentives, as well. These discounts can add up quickly, helping you save more over time.

Write off range anxiety

Your drivers may experience range anxiety — or the fear that you won’t be able to reach a charging station before running out of power — at the thought of switching to EVs. Give your drivers the tools they need to find convenient charging stations to ease this anxiety.

Overlook hybrid models

If you and your drivers aren’t ready to go fully electric, consider other types of EVs for your fleet. Hybrid EVs use both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, giving you the perks of an EV without the range anxiety.

After starting the transition, monitor the deployment’s progress to stay on track and meet your future goals. Contact your local electric cooperative as your business starts planning the transition to an EV fleet. Your local co-op’s energy advisor can provide support to your business to ensure the transition is successful.