As the UK accelerates its transition to cleaner energy, the road haulage and logistics sector is increasingly under pressure to adapt, and electric fleets are quickly moving from concept to reality.
Fleet electrification has already gained serious traction, with major players like BT Group committing to massive EV rollouts. By 2027, BT plans to operate 8,000 electric vehicles, nearly a third of its total fleet, highlighting a broader industry shift that goes beyond ticking sustainability boxes. It’s about gaining a competitive edge, cutting long-term costs, and aligning with national decarbonisation goals.
At Bluestones Supply Chain, we’re closely watching this momentum and the conversations surrounding what electrification means for hauliers, couriers, and distribution businesses, especially those managing large or long-haul fleets. While the government’s 2030 petrol and diesel sales ban doesn’t yet apply to HGVs, many within the sector agree it’s only a matter of time.
Driving factors behind the shift
The rise in EV adoption is being fuelled by several key factors. Battery technology has improved drastically, enabling longer distances without a significant increase in size or weight. Meanwhile, modern electric hydraulic systems, proportional valves, and power-on-demand innovations are helping electric lorries rival their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts in both performance and reliability.
There’s also an economic argument. Electricity remains more affordable than diesel, especially when vehicles are charged during off-peak hours. Fewer moving parts in EVs mean fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs over time, a win for both fleet uptime and budgets.
But challenges remain
Cost remains the biggest barrier. EVs are still around 25 percent more expensive than petrol or diesel equivalents, and charging infrastructure, especially for depots handling multiple vehicles, requires investment. Range anxiety also persists. Government data shows that most commercial EVs currently travel between 100 to 300 miles per week, which might suit local delivery but not longer haulage runs.
Sustainability starts before the switch
A full switch to electric may not be viable for every logistics provider just yet. But that doesn’t mean fleets can’t start making sustainable changes. Many industry leaders are now focusing on route optimisation, telematics, and smarter scheduling to reduce emissions today while preparing for electrification tomorrow.
A recent survey found that while 87 percent of fleet owners aim to go electric by 2030, less than half feel highly prepared to do so. The message is clear: early planning, risk assessment, and phased rollouts will be key.
What does this mean for Bluestones Supply Chain?
As a staffing and workforce solutions provider dedicated to the logistics and transport sector, we know that these shifts have a direct impact on skills demand, recruitment, and workforce planning. Roles related to EV maintenance, infrastructure support, and eco-routing technology will grow. Equally, drivers and logistics professionals will need new training and support as businesses introduce electric vehicles into their fleets.
The road ahead is electric and we’re here to help our clients navigate it.
Contact us
If your business is preparing for the shift to electric or you need support with workforce planning for the future, Bluestones Supply Chain is here to help. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can assist with your fleet and staffing needs.