MGE's new EV fleet goals

MGE’s new step van with battery-powered auxiliary equipment is used primarily by crews working on MGE’s underground electric network system in downtown Madison. The battery-powered equipment prevents vehicle idling while crews perform their work.

MGE’s new step van with battery-powered auxiliary equipment is used primarily by crews working on MGE’s underground electric network system in downtown Madison. The battery-powered equipment prevents vehicle idling while crews perform their work.

As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, MGE is targeting a goal of 100% all-electric or plug-in hybrid light-duty vehicles (LDV) in our fleet by 2030, with an interim goal of 25% LDVs by 2025. 

The newest electric vehicle (EV) additions to the MGE fleet will be nine plug-in hybrid Ford Escapes, which are currently scheduled to arrive in 2021.

Rick Moling, manager of fleet operations at MGE, expects these to be a great fit for MGE's meter reader crew. "They’ve got predictable routes and put on quite a few miles but don't need to carry a lot of equipment. Plus, the Escape is a vehicle that can handle rough terrain and all kinds of weather—two things our meter readers encounter a lot." 

Deciding when to add EVs to the MGE fleet, and which vehicles make sense, continues to be a balancing act. "Sedans have historically been the EV category with the most options," Moling said. "But there are more vehicle options, better batteries and increased range all the time. EVs are driving more change in the vehicle world than we've seen in the last 50+ years. It's exciting to be part of it." 
 

Are EVs right for your fleet? 

Are you a business owner or manager trying to determine if EVs could be a smart addition to your fleet? Don't guess—contact MGE to learn more about an EV Fleet Analysis today! 

MGE partners with a fleet analytics specialist who gathers actual vehicle data over a 90-day period. You'll receive a summary for each vehicle being evaluated that includes the following data points: 
  • EV recommendations 
  • Estimated energy use 
  • Recommended charging infrastructure 
  • Estimated cost to charge the vehicle 
  • Estimated annual and lifetime savings 
  • Estimated reduction in greenhouse gas emissions  

Our new fleet analysis is free of charge and just the first step in a comprehensive process designed to make EVs an easy add at your organization.  

MGE can provide assistance with any of the following: 

  • Cost analysis. You'll need to consider both initial vehicle and infrastructure costs and ongoing expenses. Rely on MGE's experts to help with both.   
  • Fleet vehicle advice. Our team can help you determine which vehicles best meet your needs.  
  • Infrastructure assistance. MGE's team can help with charger location, charger options and more. Plus, ask about our charging support programs.  
Contact your MGE account manager or call the Business Energy Line today to learn more!