Choosing the right route to fleet electrification

Fleet decision-makers looking to decarbonise can rely on Toyota and Lexus Business for innovative technologies, vehicle quality and an expert, extensive dealer network. Independent research indicates that fleets are confident in Toyota and Lexus Business as a highly trusted and sustainable partner. Toyota has achieved Top Three status from a selection of 28 automotive manufacturers in research from Fleet Power Index independent brand-tracker. Through its multi-path fuel strategy, Toyota and Lexus Business offers fleets hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). With seven EV and hybrid launches scheduled this year, Toyota and Lexus Business is committed to maintaining its focus on quality, value and dealer support. Paul Fricker, general manager at ONE Toyota Fleet Services, said: “Toyota and Lexus Business is dedicated to maintaining its high-performance, trusted brand status among UK fleets. That means there’s never been a better time to join us on the road to decarbonisation.”

All businesses, from small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) right through to corporates, are now more confident of running BEVs. The following are figures from SMEs in the research: - 64% believe BEVs can meet driver operational requirements - Among SME fleets, 38% are very confident that EVs deliver total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits - 50% of fleets say dealer networks remain critical to successful EV transition - Lower fuel costs are the biggest benefit of BEVs for 43% - 39% of SME fleets describe current EV charging infrastructure and support services as “quite capable”

Growing confidence in BEVs

Charging complexities

Selling EVs in today’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandated and highly competitive landscape presents real challenges. The question we continually ask is: How do we differentiate ourselves? Our Fleet Sales team goes way beyond transactional relationships – we operate as consultants and partners, always prioritising the customer, and working collaboratively with them at every step along their journey. This approach has earned us enduring loyalty in a market where loyalty is increasingly rare. When it comes to EVs, that trust factor becomes even more critical. But so do flexible and bespoke solutions to meet customer needs and overcome barriers. Toyota and Lexus Business does not operate a one-size-fits-all policy. Recently, a prospective customer, managing a fleet of 900 vans, expressed hesitation about transitioning to EVs. Its drivers were concerned about home charging logistics, rising energy costs and the administrative burden of expense claims. Sticking with diesel seemed simpler. Fortunately, we already identified these concerns as common barriers and had a solution ready. Through strong collaboration and open communication, both teams quickly developed a tailored plan. The result? The customer not only overcame its initial concerns, but also gained valuable data, demonstrating clear cost savings from switching to EVs. The evidence was compelling, making the decision to proceed straightforward. Without these solutions, the customer couldn’t proceed with their transition to electric.

Customer case study: real-world savings

charging complexities

2026 bev range

2026 BEV range

Toyota and Lexus Business contributes to fleet electrification with a new expanded range of BEVs, the broader choice offering fleets greater coverage of roles with less compromise.

costing considerations for the electric transition

Choosing the right route to fleet electrification

The multi-path solution to decarbonising your fleet

1. Identify, brief and survey key stakeholders 2. Communicate with drivers and conduct analysis 3. Set your goals: Cost/CO2/choice 4. Identify any van EV requirements 5. Conduct initial journey analysis 6. Construct transition schedule

Six essential steps to define your EV fleet strategy

Independent research was conducted by 360 Media Group with responses from 400 UK fleet decision-makers during February 2026. The aim? To understand their current relationship with EVs, future intent and the key enablers influencing fleet electrification. The sample profile was a mix of SME and corporate fleets from different industries. Overall, Toyota’s findings show there is good visibility of the opportunities for electrification and decarbonisation. Toyota and Lexus Business is committed to helping SMEs and corporates turn this into reality, by offering a range of vehicles suitable for every need and role, plus support to keep them operating effectively and economically. Electrification is happening across the fleet sector, with thousands of businesses and millions of drivers benefitting from newly electrified and decarbonised powertrains. Electrification adoption rates vary by fleet size, sector and location. Larger fleets are seeing broader adoption, particularly with cars, while the situation is more mixed across commercial vehicles. For most fleets, the challenges of electrification go beyond simply choosing the right vehicles. Running an electric fleet successfully requires coordination across charging infrastructure, energy management, billing systems, driver behaviour and operational policy. Managing these elements independently can create significant complexities, particularly for SMEs that may not have dedicated fleet management teams. Research highlights the value of manufacturer support in addressing this challenge: two-thirds of SMEs (66%) believe OEM support would be very, or quite, valuable when transitioning to EVs.

Charging infrastructure remains the limiting factor to full EV adoption for SMEs – more than the upfront cost or operational suitability. EVs have seen significant improvements to their real-world ranges, battery durability and charging speeds, making them capable of the vast majority of roles required by fleets and their employees. While many now deliver 300miles of real world range, and the number of public charge points to support this has grown to almost 90,000 in the UK, there is still a distinct gap between this performance and driver confidence. Fleet operators believe public charging reliability is a primary concern. While networks have grown, inconsistent uptime and maintenance issues can disrupt operations, especially for high-utilisation vehicles that depend on predictable turnaround times. While fleets believe that BEVs are fit for the task – with many SMEs (64%) and most corporates (77%) confident they can do what’s required of them – trust in charging infrastructure is limited. Fleets believe that when it works, charging works well, but only a quarter of fleets (26%) rate the network as “very capable”. Many SMEs (40%) identify workplace charging as their biggest challenge when it comes to managing charging infrastructure; meanwhile, 42% of corporate fleets say public charging is the biggest challenge, with a quarter believing it limits greater EV adoption. How Toyota and Lexus Business supports fleet electrification Toyota and Lexus Business removes many of the operational barriers that can slow EV adoption by bringing together key elements in one ecosystem – an EV transition ‘one-stop shop’. Rather than leaving businesses to coordinate multiple suppliers and systems themselves, Toyota combines the key elements of EV transition in an integrated approach, allowing fleet managers to work with fewer partners while improving management visibility and reducing administrative burden. Ultimately, the goal is simple: making the transition to electric vehicles easier and more predictable for fleets of all sizes. Support ecosystem Fleets can select from a growing range of BEVs, each designed to meet different requirements. Support and Solutions Alongside electrified cars and vans, Toyota provides back-up and assistance to keep them running and working efficiently: - Service activated warranty*: With a warranty up to ten years or one hundred thousand miles with every qualifying routine service. - Battery care warranty**: drivers can enjoy total confidence with 10-year/1,000,000-mile coverage. - Five years’ roadside assistance***: Toyota Express Servicing helps minimise downtime through faster maintenance and proactive diagnostics. - Nationwide support†: this support is reinforced by Toyota’s national dealer network, with more than 200 franchised sites across the UK, providing consistent expertise and local fleet support. - Powertrain optimiser tool: this digital tool analyses TCO across powertrain options for each customer’s vehicles and operations to find the correct powertrain for their specific needs. Solutions Successful EV operations depend on reliable access to charging across a variety of locations. It also requires systems that enable a business to make the most of its electrified fleet and help drivers to transition. By integrating these, Toyota and Lexus Business provides fleets with the tools to avoid the complexities of managing multiple suppliers and systems, while making EV adoption seamless and simple: - Charging infrastructure: solutions supporting home, workplace and public charging environments. - Billing and payments: integrated platforms that simplify payment, reimbursement and cost reporting. - Driver guides and training: giving employees the knowledge to operate EVs efficiently. - Fleet optimisation: guidance on vehicle suitability, duty cycles and operational policy.

The main elements of total cost of ownership modelling – energy, funding, insurance, servicing, maintenance, residual values and taxation – are well understood in principle. However, confidence in how these costs translate into real-world fleet BEV operations for fleets is still developing. Only around a third of businesses actively apply TCO to manage vehicle costs, while many continue to rely primarily on leasing rates as a benchmark. Most fleets believe that electrification reduces the cost of running company cars. However, confidence is lower for vans, where operational factors such as range, downtime and infrastructure requirements can have a larger financial impact. In practice, the biggest differences between TCO theory and real-world EV operation often come from variables that are harder to predict, particularly around charging behaviour and infrastructure. Energy costs and charging behaviour Electricity costs vary significantly dependent on where and how vehicles are charged. Home charging can be the lowest-cost option, particularly when drivers use smart tariffs during off-peak periods. Public charging, while convenient, can be significantly more expensive and may increase operational costs if used frequently. Driver charging behaviour, therefore, becomes a factor in determining overall fleet costs. Vehicles or employees that rely on public charging, even occasionally, can quickly alter the predicted cost profile. Infrastructure investment Electrification can require investment beyond the vehicles themselves. Many fleets need to consider the cost of installing home chargers for drivers, as well as workplace or depot charging infrastructure. This forms a significant part of a fleet’s transition strategy, both financially and practically. Clarifying who funds and manages charger installation – the employer, employee or a third-party provider – is an important step in planning an EV roll-out. Maintenance and taxation Electric vehicles typically benefit from lower servicing requirements due to fewer moving parts and reduced mechanical wear. However, many fleets still lack long-term operational data to validate projected budgets. Tax incentives, particularly benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax advantages for company cars, also strengthen the business case for electrification. Yet these policies can change over time, dependent on shifting Government needs, which, in turn, introduces uncertainty into longer-term planning for fleet operation and employee benefits. Hidden operational costs Some of the most important EV costs are not directly linked to the vehicle itself. Home charging reimbursement is one example. Without visibility of how and where drivers perform their battery charging, employers may struggle to accurately reimburse electricity costs. Similarly, fleets may need to invest in charging management platforms, billing systems and driver policies to ensure charging is used efficiently. These operational factors can significantly influence whether theoretical TCO savings are fully realised. For fleets looking to overcome cost concerns, manage hidden operational costs and realise real-world savings; none of these can be achieved without tailored and consultative support. Assessing readiness for decarbonisation Electrified vehicles are trusted to deliver – the charging network that supports them, less so. Vehicle capability has outpaced driver confidence, it seems. EVs have undergone rapid improvements in real-world range, battery durability and charging speed, making them capable of the vast majority of roles required by fleets and their employees. And while many now deliver 300 miles of real world range, and the number of public charge points to support this has grown to almost 90,000 in the UK, there is still a distinct gap between this performance and driver confidence. Research shows fleet operators believe public charging reliability is a primary concern. While networks have grown, inconsistent uptime and maintenance issues can disrupt operations, especially for high utilisation vehicles that depend on predictable turnaround times. The confidence gap There is now more conviction that BEVs are able to do the job, with 64% of SMEs and 77% of corporates confident they can do what’s required of them. This is only if infrastructure and systems support enable it: 42% of corporate fleets say public charging is the biggest challenge, and a quarter say it is limiting greater EV adoption. It is this gap, between trust in vehicles, and trust in networks and systems for charging reimbursement, that is crucial. Some 64% of SME fleet managers say they are confident BEVs can meet their drivers’ needs. Meanwhile, 11%, for example, believe that when it works, charging works well, but only 26% rate the network as “very capable”. Creating an electric range for every role For decades, Toyota has been a pioneer in electrification, and this year it enhances its EV line-up with several key launches. In broadening the range, it offers cars and commercial vehicles for a wide variety of roles and needs. Key arrivals include the new bZ4X Touring, a battery-electric version of the Hilux pick-up, the Lexus ES and the Lexus TZ.

Costing considerations for the electric transition

Lexus TZ The Lexus TZ is a luxury six-seat, all-electric SUV that’s set to land in the UK in 2027. It will be available with two battery size – a 76.69kWh or 95.8kWh battery lithium-ion unit, with the larger battery capable of an electric driving range of 330 miles. All TZs make use of a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system to offer planted and stable performance, as well as the ultra-compact Lexus eAxles designed to offer minimal intrusion into the cabin to maximise cabin space. Beyond the cutting-edge EV technology, there’s also the premium interior that’s designed to offer lounging room for six occupants complete with seat heating for all six, as well as ventilation for the front two rows.

Lexus ES Lexus has entered the electric executive saloon segment with the seventh-generation ES. This sleek saloon makes use of a 77kWh lithium-ion battery which can yield an electric driving range of up to 361 miles. As a premium saloon, the Lexus ES makes use of quality materials throughout the interior – including bamboo – and offers exceptional refinement for occupants. The rear seats can be optioned with chauffeur-ready premium touches including heated and cooled rear seats, reclining rear seats and a touchscreen control panel build into the centre armrest.

Toyota CH-R+ The new-generation Toyota C-HR+ is a sleek coupe SUV with the longest driving range of any production Toyota EV. It builds on the success of the hybrid and PHEV C-HR model but is built from the ground up to be an EV. There are two battery options, a 57.7kWh and 77kWh, and the larger size can achieve up to 376 miles of range. There’s more cutting-edge technology with the C-HR+ thanks to optional 22kW AC charging, battery pre-conditioning that works down to -10°C and a standard-issue heat pump.

Toyota bZ4X Touring The Toyota bZ4X Touring is an estate version of Toyota’s large electric SUV. It’s 140mm longer and 20mm taller which provides extra space for passengers and a class-leading boot size of 669 litres. The bZ4X Touring is available with a 74.7kWh battery and can be optioned with either front- or all-wheel drive configurations. The former offers the longest electric driving range of up to 366 miles while the latter offers extra performance. The battery is capable of 150KW DC charging and 22kW AC charging. The bZ4X Touring is also designed to be capable off-road thanks to dedicated off-road modes.

Toyota Hilux BEV For the first time, the legendary Toyota Hilux is available with a battery electric powertrain. Alongside the ever-popular diesel powertrain, this new generation pick-up is available with a 59.2kWh battery coupled to two electric motors for permanent all-wheel drive traction. This powertrain is capable of an official electric driving range of up to 159 miles and is capable of 150kW rapid charging. The Toyota Hilux BEV is also capable of towing up to 1,700kg and features a 715kg payload. Beyond this, the Hilux BEV is available with a dual cab configuration and can be optioned with two seats to qualify for commercial vehicle classification.

Toyota Urban Cruiser The Toyota Urban Cruiser is the brand’s offering in the electric compact SUV segment. This SUV is built on a dedicated EV platform and it’s available with two battery options, a 49kWh or 61kWh lithium-ion unit, the latter of which is capable of up to 264 miles of electric range. Despite compact proportions, the Urban Cruiser is designed to maximise space and flexibility with clever touches such as sliding rear seats that can let occupants choose between extra legroom or boot space. This flexibility is further bolstered by a 40:20:40 rear seat split.

Battery electric vehicles requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Seeking solutions for fleet electrification? Ready to decarbonise with clarity and commercial sense? Download the Toyota and Lexus Business Electrification whitepaper https://www.toyota.co.uk/evfleet

growing confidence in bevs

Service Activated Warranty *Every new Toyota comes with a 3-year/60,000 mile manufacturer's warranty automatically. The Toyota Service Activated Warranty is a vehicle warranty which is applied automatically on the completion of each Eligible Service and lasts up until the next scheduled routine service. Eligible Services are available until the vehicle turns 10 years old or reaches 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). Terms and conditions. See website for details. Battery Care Warranty: **Every new Toyota EV traction Battery comes with an 8-year/100,000 mile manufacturer's warranty automatically. The Toyota Battery Care Warranty is available on full battery electric vehicles (excluding the Proace) and covers the EV traction Battery only. This warranty is applied automatically on the completion of each Eligible Service and lasts up until the next scheduled routine service. Eligible Services are available until the vehicle turns 10 years old or reaches 1,000,000 miles (whichever comes first). Terms and conditions. See website for details. Roadside Assistance & Express Servicing: ***Roadside Assistance coverage provided for eligible vehicles includes breakdown cover, roadside recovery, and European cover, subject to manufacturer warranty terms and vehicle service history. Toyota Express Servicing is available at participating retailers and is subject to booking availability and vehicle maintenance requirements. Nationwide Network & Powertrain Optimiser: †Learn more about the Powertrain Optimiser here

Model shown: Lexus TZ. WLTP figures are awaiting final homologation testing. Figures displayed may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Model shown: Lexus ES. Fuel economy: mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO₂ emissions: 0g/km. Electric range: up to 361 miles. Figures obtained after full battery charge. The Lexus ES is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO₂ and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Model shown is Toyota C-HR+. Fuel economy: mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO₂ emissions: 0g/km. Electric range: 284 to 376 miles. Figures obtained after full battery charge. The Toyota C-HR+ is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO₂ and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Model shown is Toyota bZ4X Touring. Fuel economy: mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO₂ emissions: 0g/km. Electric range: 297 to 366 miles. Figures obtained after full battery charge. The Toyota bZ4X Touring is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO₂ and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Indicative charge time, for comparison purposes. Actual charging times may vary depending on various factors, including the selected vehicle (and battery option, if available), the age, type, condition and temperature of the charging unit and the battery, the starting charge, the power supply to and usage of the charger and the environmental conditions at the point of use. 150kW+ chargers are available in mainland Great Britain primarily on major arterial routes – see Zap Map for details. They are not yet available in Northern Ireland and availability is limited in Scotland, Wales and in rural areas.

Model shown is Toyota Hilux BEV. Fuel economy: mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO₂ emissions: 0g/km. Electric range: up to 159 miles. Figures obtained after full battery charge. The Toyota Hilux BEV is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO₂ and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Towing and payload capacities are maximum limits based on gross vehicle weight (GVW) and gross train weight (GTW). Towing performance, payload, and driving range will vary significantly depending on vehicle load, trailer weight, and operating conditions. Commercial vehicle classification, VAT reclamation, and Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax status are subject to HMRC regulations and specific vehicle configuration (including the two-seat option). Fleet operators should seek independent tax advice. Indicative charge time, for comparison purposes. Actual charging times may vary depending on various factors, including the selected vehicle (and battery option, if available), the age, type, condition and temperature of the charging unit and the battery, the starting charge, the power supply to and usage of the charger and the environmental conditions at the point of use. 150kW+ chargers are available in mainland Great Britain primarily on major arterial routes – see Zap Map for details. They are not yet available in Northern Ireland and availability is limited in Scotland, Wales and in rural areas.

Model shown is Toyota Urban Cruiser. Fuel economy: mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO₂ emissions: 0g/km. Electric range: 214 to 264 miles. Figures obtained after full battery charge. The Toyota Urban Cruiser is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Electric range figures were achieved using the WLTP test procedure and are provided for comparison purposes. Only compare CO₂ and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend on various factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.