IP&O is launching a strategic initiative to transition its fleet from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) over the next decade. Director of Material and Logistical Services, David Haines, announced that the first step involves replacing 48 administrative vehicles with electric models within the next six months, marking Rutgers University's first large-scale all-electric fleet. To support this transition, comprehensive vehicle operations and safety protocols will be provided. The new vehicles will feature regenerative braking and all-wheel drive, making them suitable for city driving. This effort is part of the university’s goal to achieve a zero-carbon footprint by 2040.
For additional information, view the IP&O Newsletter article.
FAQs for Electric Vehicles
- How long does an electric vehicle last?
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Car and Driver reports in Oct 2023:
Electric vehicles are designed to last as long as any other vehicle. A central question for many people considering an EV is whether the battery pack will need to be replaced during the life of the car. The answer is no. Carmakers design the battery to have the same lifespan as that of the car. In fact, the Federal government requires that automakers warranty the battery for a minimum of eight years and 100,000 miles, which ensures that it’s engineered to go at least that far. Carmakers want their EV batteries to be robust enough to avoid both recalls and warranty replacements.
Just like any other battery, though, those powering EVs will experience a small loss of capacity over the life of the vehicle. This isn’t anything like a mobile-phone battery, however, which may hold only a fraction of its original energy after three or four years. An EV battery is considered at the end of its life when it reaches around 70 percent of its original capacity. So, a car with an original 250-mile range should still be capable of about 175 miles between charges. Absent extraordinary circumstances, it will likely take longer than 10 years for modern EVs with liquid-cooled batteries to degrade that far—and perhaps longer. Most EVs 10 or older are still on the road—albeit with slightly reduced range.
- Is it expensive to maintain an EV?
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In general, a battery-electric vehicle has fewer maintenance needs than a vehicle with a gasoline engine. EVs don’t need oil-and-filter changes or, down the road a bit, engine air filter or spark-plug replacement. That means you won’t be visiting the dealer at regular mileage intervals. EVs do still need wear items like tires, wiper blades, brake pads, and cabin air filters replaced.
- Are EVs different to drive compared to gas-engine vehicles?
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Though EVs drive almost exactly like gas-engine vehicles, there are a few differences to adjust to when driving an EV for the first time. Of course, you won't hear the familiar sound of an engine, and you'll find that most EVs have surprisingly brisk acceleration. Many are downright fast.
The one most noticeable difference from gasoline-powered vehicles is what's called regenerative braking. When you lift off the accelerator pedal, the motor that powers the wheels can instantly and automatically convert into a generator to help recharge the battery. The resistance while in this generator mode slows the car down as if you dropped it into a lower gear or applied the brakes moderately.
- How does extreme cold or hot weather affect EVs?
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After the record-snapping cold spell of 2022, the cold weather question is fresh on the mind. Here’s the thing: All cars, gas and electric, use more energy in cold weather. That means lower gas mileage for ICE drivers and a shorter range (how far an EV can go on a single charge) for EV drivers.
According to Consumer Reports, extreme temperatures can reduce an unplugged EV’s range by about 20%, and recharging takes longer. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your EV range during extreme cold (20° F and below) temperatures:
- How can I maximize the EV range in cold weather?
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For cold weather, there are a few tips on extending your charging life, the simplest and most common answer, slow down. Not only is it safer, but it increases your range. The faster you go, the more energy the EV uses, so set the cruise control on long-distance drives and follow the speed limits on and around campus.
- How can I maximize the EV range in hot weather?
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- Where possible, park in the shade.
- Lower the AC and use the recirculating air feature to maximize cool air and minimize energy consumption.
- What are some of the environmental advantages of EVs?
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Generally speaking, over the car's lifetime, electric vehicles are better for the environment than their gas-powered counterparts, even when you account for battery manufacturing. Here are a few big-picture environmental benefits of driving electric:
- Have zero tailpipe emissions.
- EVs contribute fewer overall emissions than ICE vehicles.
- EVs are 2-3x more efficient than gas-powered cars.
- Lithium-ion manufacturing is more climate-friendly than the alternative.
Sources: EPA.gov, fueleconomy.gov, climate.mit.edu, car.com
- Can I charge at Public Charging stations off campus?
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At this time all Rutgers EV vehicles are only approved to charge directly on campus at designated charging stations. There may be future enhancements to allow charging off-campus as we continue to evolve the RU eco-system.
- Where can I find the vehicle manuals for the IP&O EV fleet?
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Manuals and other important vehicle information can be found at ipo.rutgers.edu/business-services/material-logistical-services/fleet. Each vehicle is equipped with its own manual book.
- If I notice a problem with EV vehicle, who do I contact?
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Always notify your supervisor if you have a problem with any university vehicle. The supervisor or his designee should then contact Fleet Services.
There are a few different ways to report to Fleet Services, email, text, or right through our online fleet booking system
- Email: fleetservices@ipo.rutgers.edu
- Text: (833) 264-8630
- Online appointment: https://onlineappointments.mitchell1.com
- Within your vehicle, there is a QR code affixed to the vehicle's display screen area, insurance card holder, or vehicle driver visor that can be scanned. Scanning this code will lead you to the Fleet Services website.
- How do I schedule service for an EV fleet vehicle?
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- https://onlineappointments.mitchell1.com
- You can scan the QR code affixed to your vehicle's registration/insurance cardholder, vehicle display screen area, or on the vehicle driver visor. This will lead you to the Fleet Services website to book an appointment.
- What do I do if I need an EV vehicle towed?
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There are a few things to consider when it comes to our major highways, such as the Parkway and Turnpike. It's very important to notify whomever you contact that you are driving an EV vehicle because a “flatbed tow truck” is required. Our EVs are all-wheel drive and require a flatbed tow truck to remove safely.
Other important information:
- If you need a tow because of an accident, please call 911 and follow all proper procedures. For more information, visit ipo.rutgers.edu/rehs/safety/students/accidents.
- Please call one of our Shop Forepersons or Fleet Managers to respond to a vehicle breakdown. We will dispatch a Fleet Service Tow Truck or Roadside Response vehicle to assist you.
- If broken down on either the Turnpike or Parkway, you can request roadside assistance or report a maintenance issue by calling #95 for the New Jersey Turnpike or #GSP for the Garden State Parkway. Please notify Fleet Services if this situation occurs when driving an IP&O vehicle.
- You will find a QR code affixed to your vehicle's display screen area, insurance cardholder, or on the vehicle driver visor. Scanning this code will lead you to the Fleet Services website.
- If you need a tow because of an accident, please call 911 and follow all proper procedures. For more information, visit ipo.rutgers.edu/rehs/safety/students/accidents.
- Where can I find Rutgers University vehicle policies?
- Do I need a Defensive Driving Certificate to drive a university vehicle?
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For information on Defensive Driving, visit: https://ipo.rutgers.edu/publicsafety/defensive-driving
- Should I charge my EV to 80% or 90%?
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There are two reasons:. Most of the time you should only charge an EV to 80% because charging rates slow down dramatically past the 80% mark. And two, the long-term health of your vehicle's battery pack is improved when kept below 100%.
- At what point should I charge my EV?
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Generally speaking,. We recommend when you return your EV to only charge it if you are between 30-35% charge range. Lithium-ion batteries do best when they operate in the 30%-80% charge range.
