AA rolls out EV support service in response to increased demand

The AA is responding to the rise in demand for electric vehicles by launching a brand new EV Support Service.
 
Following successful implementation across the SWARCO E.Connect UK network over the summer months, the AA is set to roll out a dedicated EV Support package for several other operators in the domestic, workplace and public charging environments. Alongside award-winning contact centre staff to provide EV drivers with support at the end of the phone, the AA is also exploring a field-based technician option to maintain the country’s growing EV infrastructure.   
 
Dean Hedger, EV New Business Development Manager, said: “We have a deep and continued commitment to ensuring the availability of both the expertise and technology to meet the needs of fleets and drivers throughout their vehicle lifecycle. With more EVs on UK roads, it is important that we deliver a service that ensures excellent driver experience, for new users and EVangelists alike.  
 
“The AA EV Support Service builds on our existing capability across the business, including having the largest group of EV Level 2 trained technicians in the UK. One third of the AA Prestige garage network is already EV capable, most of our company cars are already EVs or plug-in hybrids, and AA Drivetech provides specific EV driver training. The logical next step is ensuring we can support the infrastructure accompanying EV vehicle adoption.”
 
As part of the EV Support managed services offer, the AA will support drivers if they need help at the charge point, handling calls about both the electric car and electric charging infrastructure.
 
Hedger adds: “It is clear there is a way to go before universal adoption can be achieved. Perceptions need to change – but for that to happen, the reality must alter too. Batteries, range, payload and charging infrastructure are just a few of the areas which will need to develop significantly. That is why simplifying the journey for all EV drivers is a huge priority. We are keen to help both established and new EV drivers get to grips with technology so they can get as much enjoyment as possible from their EV driving experience, ensuring they are fully supported at every mile of their journey.”

The AA has also released a report ‘EV and Future Fuels’ to coincide with its Founding Partner role for World EV Day on 9th September 2020. The report features contributions from SWARCO, as well as UBER and Logistics UK, formerly the Freight Transport Association. It highlights the opportunities for fleets and SMEs looking to make the switch to EV, as well as suggesting some of the questions they should address in the process.