A supplier has been named by the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) for a “game changing” new platform allowing the industry body’s members to share their electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities on a nationwide basis.

Technology start-up Evata was chosen following a competitive tender that lasted several months and will deliver technology that allows AFP members with spare depot and office charger capacity to offer their facilities to others within the organisation.

The decision was taken by 19 organisations who are part of the AFP’s shared charging committee, launched at the start of 2024.

Paul Hollick at the AFP, said: “The shared charging committee was born out of AFP research that showed six out of 10 members were interested in shared charging. We spent much of last year establishing whether such an arrangement was viable and how it would work – examining everything from booking and availability to pricing and health and safety.

“Having created a framework, we began talking to suppliers late last year and following a detailed and thorough process, are very pleased to be working with Evata. They have the expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm to deliver a game changing platform that will bring new possibilities for fleets seeking reasonably priced, convenient charging.”

The Evata technology will be made available for AFP members through an online portal, while drivers will be given a self-serve mobile app for use when accessing shared infrastructure..

Paul at the AFP added: “One of the factors that impresses us about Evata is their mission to ‘make electrification affordable’ for fleets, working alongside businesses adopting EVs for the first time to ensure they can economically access the infrastructure required.

“In many ways, the work we are undertaking with them reflects this thinking and we are looking forward to getting the shared charging project moving and delivering for members.”

Shakeel Ali, co-founder at Evata, said: “We’re really excited to be working with the AFP on this platform. It means that in addition to home, work and highway charging, fleets will now have access to a fourth channel through which to power their EVs.”

The AFP is looking to add more fleet operators to the shared charging service, both potential charging providers and users. Anyone interested in obtaining further information – members or non-members – should contact [email protected]. Details are also available on the AFP website – www.theafp.co.uk.