This month we reached another ecological milestone towards becoming a CO2 neutral company. We have completely switched to electric and hybrid mobility with the replacement of our last conventionally powered passenger car.

Important symbolism

We have been working on continuously replacing vehicles for three years. Due to the leasing contracts, a changeover from one day to the next has not been possible. We are now all the more pleased with the complete transformation, because a sustainable environmental balance sheet is an important symbol of responsibility for company vehicles, both externally and internally.

The best of both worlds

In addition to the form of drive, we have also adapted the number and size of vehicles. Our fleet is now smaller. It includes three e-vehicles for use in the immediate vicinity and two hybrid cars for field service and longer distances. For our corporate division SCS - Security Cage Systems, for example, we are almost always on the road for long distances. A hybrid drive is ideal for SCS because we don't have to rely on the charging infrastructure, which is still in need of expansion, and we still fill up less than before.

The low demand for gasoline is an advantage, especially at a time of skyrocketing fuel costs. Even if electricity costs continue to rise, there will still be a difference in favor of the electronic drive.

Hybrid as a temporary solution

Three charging stations are available on the site for the five vehicles. With a range of 350 km, the short-range e-vehicle needs to be charged about every two weeks. With the hybrid, we benefit from the fact that it hardly needs to be recharged manually, because during long-distance trips with gasoline propulsion, the battery charges automatically while the vehicle is on the road. Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to switch to e-only operation. Charging times of up to 35 minutes for long journeys per "refueling" process are simply not practical for us. Our goal is to go completely electronic at some point.

Setting an example and enjoying change

All cars are now shared pool vehicles. They can be used by everyone as needed. This requires flexibility. The concept is supported by all vehicle users because the transition phase was sufficiently long and there are no exceptions, not even for executives. As with all change measures in companies, the role model function of the decision-makers is essential and ensures acceptance.

Our vehicle fleet does not account for the majority of our CO2 emissions. Nevertheless, we are happy about every change, because commitment to sustainability is fun and motivating.