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Electric Hireman

31 August 2021

Electric Hireman

The old adage that every challenge is really an opportunity has proved true for The Hireman. 

The London-based independent had ordered a number of replacement diesel pickup vehicles earlier this year but was subsequently informed that delivery would not be until 2022 owing to silicon chip shortages amongst other supply chain difficulties. So managing director Neil Graham explored other options. 

“I looked at pure hybrid vehicles and then plug-in hybrids (which can be charged independently without having to run the engine) but neither was really suitable in terms of practicality and employee taxation,” Neil told me. “Also, the plug-in hybrids have less boot space because of the extra batteries. 

“Then a friend told me about their electric vehicle which they were very happy with. So I did some more research and found the Volkswagen ID.3. It has a 250-mile range and that’s fine for our managers visiting our three depots across Greater London and seeing customers. 

“I think the three main ingredients have come together now: the range, the charging infrastructure and government support in terms of tax breaks to encourage take-up. It will save us money in the long-run, employees benefit – and it’s green. 

“We’re not having to compromise financially and, quite honestly, why should we? The government has to help business towards making the decision, and I think they’re doing so,” said Neil. 

The ID.3 (which one reviewer rather uncharitably said sounds like a Star Wars character) is a hatchback and obviously offers less space, but The Hireman has ample dedicated commercial vehicles in its fleet for delivery duties. 

The new EVs – three initially with five more planned in the future – will primarily be used for non-delivery applications. And because there is no engine, there is more cabin and boot space than a conventional VW Golf from which it was derived. 

The Hireman has installed 22kW fast charging points at its three depots for the vehicles. These might be made available for customers to use in the future, too. 

“Our guys are certainly positive about the move," said Neil. "They’ve either got charge points at home or access to one nearby, and there are government grants available to subsidise installation costs.” 

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