The content and agenda for each event is informed by engagement done by CEA with local government staff and public and private fleet operators from across BC. Through workshops and interviews, CEA’s team found that even where there is an understanding of how ZEVs can save money and lower emissions, fleet managers need more detailed information and resources. Danielle Wiess, CEA’s Director of Transport Initiatives, noted that fleet decision-makers are finding that replacing large or specialty-use vehicles can be more complex than replacing passenger vehicles like trucks or SUVs with electric models: “This is new territory for a lot of fleet managers and owners and it’s hard to find the information they need or talk to the right people.”

The Fleet Forward events aim to make this process easier for BC fleet owners. Wiess added, “we are finding that many people are considering transitioning large fleet vehicles to zero-emission versions, but have not had the opportunity to see them in person, meet with experts, or talk to peers who are navigating similar challenges. [The Fleet Forward events] are a neutral place for learning and knowledge exchange to bridge the gap between intention and implementation.”

All events are made possible with funding and support from Natural Resources Canada, the Province of British Columbia, and BC Hydro.