Electrification Journey and Goals
Roche Diagnostics set an ambitious goal to fully electrify its fleet by 2030. Sharon’s team started the electrification journey in 2019-2020, initially introducing electric vehicles (EVs) as luxury options to create interest and encourage adoption among drivers. With time, EVs have become more common and accessible, and the company is now transitioning its entire fleet to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
While the fleet still contains a few internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles—mainly for medical exceptions requiring larger vehicles—the focus has shifted to EVs and hybrids. Sharon’s team is proud of their current fleet, with ICE vehicles accounting for less than 1% of the total. The long-term goal is to replace even these with larger EVs and hybrids in the near future.
A Gradual Transition with a Focus on Education
To ensure the smooth transition to EVs, the company adopted a phased approach. Instead of jumping straight to BEVs, it introduced PHEVs to help drivers gradually adjust to the new technology. Roche also runs contests to encourage drivers to maximize the use of electric power in PHEVs, rewarding those who drive most efficiently.
The company ensures that only those drivers whose daily driving patterns align with EV capabilities are offered these vehicles. A survey is used to assess each driver’s suitability for an EV, ensuring they won't encounter range anxiety or charging difficulties. Drivers who regularly commute short distances are prioritized, while those with long-distance travel requirements are placed on a waiting list until suitable vehicles become available.
Support for Drivers: Training and Resources
Understanding that transitioning to EVs requires education, Roche has established several initiatives to help drivers adapt. One key initiative is the bi-weekly "office hours" sessions, which allow BEV and PHEV drivers to ask questions and share experiences. The first 30 minutes are dedicated to BEV drivers, while the next 30 minutes cater to PHEV drivers.
Additionally, Sharon’s team worked with their Fleet Management Company (FMC) to create an EV handbook, providing essential information on driving, charging, and maintaining EVs. This resource was developed collaboratively to ensure it’s easy to understand, even for drivers with limited knowledge of electrification. A separate handbook for PHEV drivers is also in development.
Fuel and Maintenance Savings
Sharon explains that the move toward Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) has already resulted in significant savings. For example, companies are seeing roughly $1,000 in fuel savings per year per vehicle, which increases depending on how much the vehicles are driven. Additionally, BEVs and PHEVs are leading to maintenance savings of $500 to $600 annually, with fewer moving parts and less wear and tear compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. As more EVs join the fleet, these savings are becoming even more noticeable.
Sustainability: Reducing Emissions
Reducing emissions is one of the primary reasons for transitioning to electric vehicles. Sharon points out that the company’s global initiative aims to lower emissions from not only fleet vehicles but also company campuses and facilities. The fleet is a significant contributor to emissions, so the shift to EVs has become a priority. The company has already seen a marked reduction in emissions, and the fleet’s transition has been supported by both leadership and employees who understand the importance of sustainable practices.
Safety Protocols: Keeping Drivers Safe
Safety is another crucial aspect of fleet management. Sharon highlights several safety initiatives, including a strict no-tolerance policy for drinking and driving, which can result in termination. Beyond this, the company provides extensive behind-the-wheel training, focusing on safe driving practices such as understanding the risks of texting while driving. Drivers undergo classroom and hands-on training to help them better understand the consequences of dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.
The company also employs a rating system to track driver behavior, using telematics to monitor risky driving habits. Drivers who display high-risk behaviors receive real-time feedback, and those who don’t show improvement may be required to go through a remediation program. This program offers one-on-one training with certified professionals to help improve driving behaviors and ensure the safety of the driver and others on the road.
Challenges in Fleet Procurement and Registration
Despite the progress, there are challenges that come with expanding the fleet, especially as electric vehicles become more integrated. One issue is the slow delivery times from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), which have been exacerbated by the pandemic and supply chain disruptions. Sharon notes that delays in vehicle manufacturing can make it difficult to keep up with the demand for fleet expansion, especially as the company hires more drivers. This can lead to additional costs, as the company may have to rent vehicles temporarily until the new fleet vehicles are available.
Moreover, titling and registration of new vehicles can vary by state, adding another layer of complexity to fleet management. Sharon's team works closely with FMCs and dealerships to streamline the process, but it still requires patience and collaboration to ensure that all paperwork is handled efficiently.
Looking Ahead
By 2030, Roche Diagnostics aims to fully electrify its fleet by 2030, focusing on BEVs and PHEVs. Under Sharon’s leadership, the company’s transition highlights a well-planned, sustainable approach to fleet management, reminding us that the shift to EVs brings significant savings and sustainability benefits, as well as the importance to safety in fleet management.
Despite challenges such as procurement delays and registration complexities, Roche is committed to finding creative solutions like working with multiple OEMs and exploring vehicle swaps. It sets a strong example for other companies in the industry with its forward-thinking approach and commitment to a greener future.
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