Universities across the nation are at a pivotal juncture. With ambitious, aggressive net-zero emissions reduction goals, they are increasingly leading the charge toward a sustainable future. According to the Second Nature Climate Leadership Commitments, over 600 American colleges and universities have pledged to reach carbon neutrality, many aiming to do so by 2050 or sooner.
As institutions actively reassess their sustainability goals and initiatives, zero-emission electric vehicles have emerged as a cornerstone of their updated strategies to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Leading universities have incorporated EV fleets into their campus strategies. But electric vehicles—and EV fleet designs—are not one-size-fits-all. University business leaders considering an on-campus EV transition should carefully consider their institutions’ unique needs and constraints to ensure it is both effective and sustainable. Below are several steps they can take.
1. Pair campus needs with vehicle classes. The first step in building a right-sized EV fleet is understanding the campus’s specific transportation needs. What works for a large, urban university with extensive shuttle services might not suit a smaller, rural college focused on maintenance and groundskeeping.
Mullen Automotive, currently the sole producer of Class 1 EV cargo vans in the U.S., has partnered with universities like Princeton, UNC Charlotte and the University of Virginia to integrate these versatile, efficient vehicles—as well as its larger Class 3 EVs—into their campus environments. These maneuverable vans are particularly well-suited for transporting goods, managing facilities and supporting dining services.
Other institutions may benefit from larger electric trucks like Class 3 models. The key for university leaders interested in following suit is to align EV class with present operational demands and priorities.
2. Assess how funding programs can lower the all-in cost of an EV fleet. While the upfront cost of certain EVs can exceed traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles, the total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s lifespan often reveals significant savings. McKinsey researchers predict that the total cost of ownership of medium-duty electric trucks will match that of traditional gas-powered vehicles as early as next year.
EVs generally have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, no need for oil changes, and less frequent brake replacements thanks to regenerative braking systems. Additionally, institutional EV owners often enjoy substantial fuel savings from using electricity instead of gasoline, especially those that leverage renewable energy sources like solar power.
President moves: 2 leaders serving 30+ years are calling it a job well done
Sizable new government incentives, including combinable federal tax credits and state-specific rebates that help cover the cost of EVs and charging infrastructure, have slashed the total cost of ownership of EVs. The upshot: These incentives offset the initial investment, and an electric fleet may be more financially viable than one may assume. Universities should explore all available incentives and incorporate them into their financial planning to maximize the economic benefits of their sustainability efforts.
3. Identify charging infrastructure needs. A successful EV fleet requires a well-planned and scalable charging infrastructure. Universities must consider the quantity, installation locations, electrical infrastructure and long-term expansion options of charging stations on their campuses.
For example, charging stations should be strategically located near key campus facilities such as maintenance hubs, loading docks and shuttle bus terminals. This ensures that EVs are charged and ready for use when needed. Additionally, universities should assess whether their current electrical grid can withstand the increased load of a new fleet or if upgrades are necessary.
Integrating renewable energy sources into the charging infrastructure can further supplement sustainability efforts. Solar panels, for example, can be installed on parking structures or buildings to provide clean energy directly to EV chargers. Some institutions may be exploring or producing alternative energies. Those should be sure to think of EV fleets when considering those energies’ use cases.
4. Evaluate environmental externalities. For many universities, emissions reduction goals have been the primary drivers of EV adoption. For instance, Princeton University aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2046, coinciding with its 300th anniversary. The University of Virginia, meanwhile, is targeting carbon neutrality by 2030 and fossil fuel independence by 2050. Both have embraced EV fleets to achieve those goals.
Moreover, that EVs improve air quality on and around campus is a critical advantage to both student and faculty wellbeing and the university’s own reputation. By reducing harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from campuses, EVs can be a valuable salve for universities—and their visitors—concerned about air quality.
Taking the leap to electric vehicles
The role of EV fleets in the realization of universities’ sustainability goals is poised to skyrocket. However, it’s important to tailor EV fleets according to the unique needs of each institution. By carefully assessing vehicle classes, available incentives, infrastructure needs and environmental impacts, university leaders can ensure that their sustainability strategies can harmonize with their financial and logistical realities.
And those leaders are not alone in this journey: Many other independent and nonprofit initiatives provide resources, case studies, insights and financial assistance to help universities accelerate their transition to a sustainable future.
Strategic planning and thoughtful execution can make all the difference in successfully transitioning to an electric fleet. As more universities embrace electric transportation for facilities operations, they will not only reduce their carbon footprint but also set a powerful example for the next generation of leaders committed to a sustainable future.
