Dynamo Motor Company Set To Reach £2 million New Investment Target
Dynamo – the UK’s only manufacturer of the 100% all electric Black Taxi Cab - edges closer to its target to secure £2million of new investment.
Dynamo will use this new investment to fund its diversification strategy and will increase its relationships with large automotive manufacturers as well as operate in other market sectors.
It was less than one year ago that E-Van Guru announced its strategic collaboration with Dynamo – this relationship has gone from strength-to-strength, with E-Van Guru playing an important role in securing new manufacturer partners and with product development.
This diversification strategy is already well underway, with last month seeing the launch of the new Dyno-Max – a raised roof modification of the Maxus e Deliver 3 SWB 52.5kwh van. Further projects include the development of a wheelchair access vehicle, launching next month.
Dynamo has already secured over £1.5 million in new investment via Seedrs an equity crowdfunding company. The initiative will run for a further 28 days. Find out more here.
New Dyno-Max Responds To End-User Demand
E-Van Guru (EVG) announces the new 'Dyno-Max', a collaboration between E-Van Guru, Dynamo and Maxus.
It was less than one year ago that E-Van Guru announced its strategic collaboration with Dynamo – the UK’s only manufacturer of the 100% all electric Black Taxi Cab.
This relationship has gone from strength-to-strength, with E-Van Guru taking the strategic lead on developing partnerships with new vehicle manufacturers.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director commented:
Whilst Nissan has led the way with its e-NV200, new market entrants Maxus, and PSA brands (Citroën, Vauxhall and Peugeot) and launches from VW and Mercedes really open up new opportunities for Dynamo to expand its product range'.
Whilst Dynamo continues to develop its 100% all electric Black Taxi Cab, the team will now also be working on a project with E-Van Guru, unofficially referred to as the 'Dyno-Max' - a raised roof modification of the Maxus e Deliver 3 SWB 52.5kwh van.'
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director continued:
'Most companies are now ready to accelerate their transition to an all-electric fleet, however, finding a cost-effective electric vehicle that meets their needs can be a challenge, with range, payload and cubic capacity, reoccurring concerns.
This new product development project, known internally as the 'Dyno-Max' is a response to these concerns -with its 200 mile range, 840kg payload, 6.0 cubic metre capacity and full height rear doors, it's a genuine alternative to market-leading diesel alternatives'.
Available from September 2021, the Dyno-Max can be supplied as a complete vehicle or as a conversion to free issue units. Conversions can also include a walk through cab sliding door, and recess for fridge units in the bulkhead.
For further information contact emma@e-van-guru.co.uk.
Welcome To Our New Business Development Director
E-Van Guru is delighted to announce the appointment of its new Business Development Director - Emma Bachelor - who joins the business on the 1st June 2021.
Emma, joins E-Van Guru after 12 years at Midlands Truck and Van Ltd, a franchised supplier of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles, where she specialised in account managing broker and leasing companies.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru comments:
'We had an overwhelming response to this vacancy however, it was a challenge to find the perfect candidate that had extensive e-LCV experience, and established relationships with brokers, funders and fleet operators.
You may notice that we share a surname, Emma is my daugther-in-law, but her application came as a huge surprise, as I knew she loved her role at Midlands Truck and Van, where we previously worked together over a decade ago!
From the outset I knew she'd be perfect for the role as her experience is exactly what the business needs, so I'm excited to welcome her to the team'.
In her new role Emma will be responsible for overseeing and growing E-Van Guru's broker clients, and its end-user account management business – delivering an outsourced strategic and operational LCV fleet management role to these clients, including a comprehensive migration strategy to an all-electric fleet.
Emma Bachelor, commented:
'After 12 years in my previous role, leaving wasn't a decision I took lightly but hearing Brian and Gilly's passion for the business, and their ambitious plans, I knew instantly this was something I wanted to be part of. I was overwhelmed by their confidence in me, and becoming a Director and shareholder of a new, but already hugely successful business is an incredible opportunity'.
E-Van Guru, established in November 2020, is a new business dedicated to accelerating the adoption of zero-emission commercial vehicles by fleet operators. It delivers project-based, and on-going advice and support to its clients which include vehicle manufacturers, automotive dealerships, finance companies, vehicle convertors and fleet managers, based in both the public and private sector.
UK Firms Plan £15.8bn Investment in EV Fleet & Infrastructure
Research commissioned by Centrica Business Solutions, reveals that UK firms spent £10.5bn on electric vehicles (EVs) and on-site charging points during the year to March 2021 but are now planning £15.8bn of investment in the same area over the next 12 months – a 50% increase year-on-year.
Centrica has been at the spearhead of EV fleet adoption since 2014, when it secured its first fleet of e-vans. Brian Bachelor, now Managing Director of E-Van Guru, and his team at West Way Nissan led this deal, notable as it was the first major e-van fleet deal at the time.
According to the Centrica research, UK firms are set to invest £15.8bn in electric vehicles over the next 12 months, a 50% increase in their spending in the year to March 2021.
Two-thirds (67%) of companies claim they are well-prepared to operate a fully electric fleet by 2030 when the Government’s ban on the sale of traditionally fuelled vehicles comes into effect.
Reacting to the research, Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru said:
‘It’s encouraging to see that companies are planning to increase their spending so dramatically over the next 12 months on an EV fleet, and it’s definitely a trend I’m witnessing first-hand with my growing client base of fleet operators, who are looking for expertise to facilitate their migration to a zero-emission fleet.'
The research also highlights that four in ten (43%) of businesses that had not increased EV numbers at all and 10% had actually decreased their EV fleet size. Range anxiety was reported as the chief concern for a third (34%) of these firms, followed by the need to prioritise business investment elsewhere during the height of the coronavirus crisis (32%).
Brian Bachelor, commented:
‘On balance this research is hugely positive, however, range anxiety does remain a consistent barrier. However, I find this is easily overcome with the correct advice in terms of vehicle selection and charging infrastructure. This is where E-Van Guru is really excelling as we offer manufacturer-independent advice, supported by 30 years commercial vehicle experience making sure our clients get a practical and cost-effective solution when migrating to an EV fleet.
If you operate a commercial vehicle fleet get in touch with E-Van Guru to see how we can support your objective to migrate to a zero-emission fleet. Contact info@e-van-guru.co.uk.
Are you our new Business Development Director?
Last week E-Van Guru announced its expansion plans with a new role vacancy to join its innovative and fast-growing business.
Brian Bachelor, comments:
'I've been absolutely overwhelmed by the interest in this new role, it's exciting to see that so many people are keen to join a new business that is dedicated to driving the take-up of zero-emission light commercial vehicles.
I've been delighted by the quality of the candidates applying, and there's definitely been some surprises in there, with strong interest from people who have already worked with me in previous roles who understand my passion and drive. I will start interviewing on Friday 7th May, so if you are interested in applying please don't delay.'
JOB DESCRIPTION: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, E-VAN GURU FLEET SPECIALISTS
E-Van Guru [Fleet Specialists] was set up in November 2020, as a new business dedicated to accelerating the adoption of zero-emission commercial vehicles by fleet operators.
Established by Brian Bachelor, who, with over 30 years’ experience in the commercial vehicle industry, and an advocate for Green Fleets since 2014, is recognised as one of the UK’s leading e-Van experts.
E-Van Guru delivers project based, and on-going consultancy services designed for vehicle dealerships, brokers, finance companies, vehicle convertors and fleet operators.
The New Role – Business Development Director
In the past 6 months, E-Van Guru has secured contracts with leading automotive dealerships and vehicle convertors as part of its original business plan. However, the demand from Fleet Operators (both private and public sector), looking for LCV fleet management expertise, to facilitate their migration to a zero-emission fleet has been well-beyond original expectations.
This new role will oversee, and grow end-user account management business - delivering an outsourced strategic and operational LCV fleet management role to these clients, including a comprehensive migration strategy to an all-electric fleet.
At this stage we’ve identified some key requirements, however, our approach is a flexible and entrepreneurial one so we’ll be looking for the right candidate who will shape and grow the role to deliver the company’s core mission and objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Performing market research to identify new opportunities and to establish strategies for pursuing those opportunities with new and existing clients;
- Creating and improving strategic plans for our existing and new clients for a smooth, timely and cost-effective transition to an all-electric LCV fleet.
Skills required:
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in marketing, finance, accounting or other relevant field;
- 5 years’ experience working in a sales function within ia LCV franchise dealership;
- 2 years’ experience (ideally more) marketing and selling electric light commercial vehicles;
- Up-to-date knowledge of relevant grants and green air initiatives;
- A passion for a zero-emission future;
- Energy, drive and motivation to succeed in a fast-paced environment;
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills – with the ability and confidence to deliver technical presentations to clients and industry events;
- Excellent analytical skills and an eye for detail;
- This role will require UK-wide travel; however, you will be required to attend our offices in Staffordshire (ST19) at least two days per week.
To apply for this role email info@e-van-guru.co.uk a short video (no more than 3 minutes long) that sets out why you are the perfect candidate for this new role; please also enclose a recent CV and details of your salary expectations.
Interviews from Friday 7 May 2021.
E-Van Guru Accelerates Expansion Plans
After only 6 months in business, E-Van Guru celebrates exceeding its first years' business plan, and brings forward expansion plans with the announcement of a new senior management position.
Business Founder and Managing Director, Brian Bachelor, explains why the business has been so successful, and why now is the right time to expand:
'From the outset, it was our mission to work in collaboration with manufacturers, automotive dealerships, finance companies, fleet managers and vehicle convertors to drive the adoption of zero-emission light commercial vehicles, and this approach has been overwhelmingly successful.'
In the past 6 months, E-Van Guru has secured contracts with leading automotive dealerships and vehicle convertors as part of its original business plan. However, the demand from Private Sector Fleet Owners looking for account management expertise, has been well-beyond original expectations.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru commented:
'Our proven ability to deliver expert account management skills to Fleet Owners - procuring specialist vehicle conversions, and the delivery of a migration plan to an all-electric fleet - has seen exceptional demand. And with new products, like the Maxus e Deliver 9 being so well received, this market is set for rapid growth'.
We are also in the final stages of securing two new large contracts, which will double the company’s turnover, making this the right time to bring new expert resource in to the company, albeit far earlier than initially planned.’
The New Role
E-Van Guru is keen to talk to candidates that have an expert knowledge of electric vans, and recent experience in LCV sales in a franchise dealership. This is a senior post so the successful candidate will also have a track record in developing and nurturing new accounts, and expertise in delivering advisory and consultancy projects for the migration to e-fleets – including vehicle sourcing, financing and charging infrastructures.
Brian Bachelor commented:
‘This is an incredible opportunity for the right person, as this role will be pivotal to the growth of the business going forward, with the appointee joining in a senior decision-making role ideally as a Director and Shareholder. This is only the first step in our expansion plans, so watch this space...'.
PHOTO: Brian Bachelor with the new Maxus e 9 Deliver, with Lily, his trusty office companion.
For more information contact brian@e-van-guru.co.uk, no agencies.
Enthusiastic Response From Last Mile Operators to Electric Moped
Since announcing its collaboration with SilenceUK earlier this month, E-Van Guru reports an enthusiastic response from last mile operators, keen to source a proven fully-electric 2-wheel solution for their inner city delivery fleets.
Earlier this year, as part of its strategy to deliver a complete electric fleet solution to its clients E-Van Guru formed a partnership with SilenceUK, the largest specialist EV manufacturer in Europe.
In this important collaboration, E-Van Guru with its unrivalled fleet experience can now provide advice and support including technical specifications, grant applications, fleet pricing and financing arrangements to its clients' - for any electric vehicle from 2 to 4 wheels.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru commented:
'The S02 LS (low speed) has really captured the imagination of last mile delivery operators as it's the 'all-electric answer' to the traditional moped. It sits nicely in the popular 50cc band for younger riders, those who never need to go above 30mph and the more budget conscious.'
The S02 LS is a supremely practical electric moped scooter for both personal and business needs. It is fully-electric, agile, light and economical and it comes with all the clever design conveniences and customisation choices of the other models. Notably, the ‘click and go’ trolley-style battery that provides a simple charging option (using a standard 240V socket and 3-pin plug). With the added security that once the battery is removed the scooter is immobilised.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru commented:
'Electric scooters have been around for some time, however the Silence S02 range is the first of its breed that I’m delighted to recommend to my clients – it’s the ideal fully-electric choice as part of a heavy-use city fleet.
With the entry-level low speed model priced at under £3k on the road, combined with its low running and servicing costs, it's a compelling cost proposition, in addition to its green credentials. Additionally, all models are covered by a three-year battery and two-year manufacturer warranty, and come with two years' AA roadside assistance in the UK.'
Who are Silence?
Silence was founded in Barcelona, Spain, in 2012, with the aim of developing fully electric scooters in-house and from the ground up. It's the only electric motorcycle manufacturer in Spain to build its own batteries, and its 165-strong workforce currently produces the equivalent of 10,000 electric mopeds a year, with 21,000 examples sold to date. Silence has 70 sales locations around Europe and the UK is its first new market for 2021.
Legislative requirements:
- You can ride a standard electric scooter in the L1e category at the age of 16;
- If you are 16 or over, you must have a valid provisional driving licence. You must also have completed compulsory basic training (CBT) unless you obtained a full driving licence before February 1, 2001;
- On obtaining your CBT you must display L plates unless you obtained a full driving licence after February 1, 2001;
- You must apply for vehicle tax, even though there is no cost for this;
- The vehicle must be type approved, registered with the DVLA and display licence plates;
- Once the vehicle is three years old, you must obtain an MOT certificate each year;
- You must have valid insurance to ride on the road, and you must wear a helmet;
- To class as an L1e vehicle, the scooters are restricted to a maximum speed of 30mph like any other moped.
Get in touch to find out more.
E-Van Guru Secures Dynamo Taxis' Second Authorised Dealer
Dynamo Taxi are delighted to announce their second authorised dealer - Car 'n' Cab Care - based in the North West.
It was only a few months ago that Dynamo Taxi announced the launch of its authorised dealer network, with The Taxi Shop, the largest taxi supplier in England and Wales, awarded the first Dynamo Electric Taxi franchise.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru, commented:
'Dynamo are delighted to secure Car ‘n’ Cab Care as an authorised dealer. Their exceptional reputation for the supply of hackneys in the North West taxi community, in addition to providing the support and warranties, make them the ideal partner. And now, for the first time, Car ‘n’ Cab Care can offer their loyal customer-base a fully electric hackney taxi.'
Owner Shaun Marnell, and industry veteran of some 30 years, commented:
‘We are determined to support clean air initiatives across the North West, and the fully-electric Dynamo Taxi has a key role to play in making the sector greener, plus the cost benefits are another compelling reason for operators to make the swap from diesel to electric.
We will be taking delivery of our first Dynamo Taxi demo in February, and already have a good level of interest from operators keen to secure a test drive.'
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru said:
‘I have been overwhelmed by the positive response we’ve had to the launch of Dynamo’s authorised dealer network. We’re currently looking to recruit several franchise partners across the UK, with Scotland and Wales particular areas of interest so I would encourage anyone that is interested to get in touch now.’
E-Van Guru Now Authorised Fleet Agent For Fully Electric E-moto Scooters
E-Van Guru has been appointed as an authorised fleet agent for SilenceUK - the largest specialist EV manufacturer in Europe.
Based in Spain, Silence is dedicated to the design and manufacture of two and three-wheel electric vehicles as well as their batteries.
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru said:
'This partnership is a huge step forward for E-Van Guru as we remain dedicated to delivering a complete e-fleet solution to our clients - whether it's two, three or four wheel electric vehicles. Running a fully electric fleet will not only future-proof your business, but also support clean area initiatives.
Electric scooters have been around for some time, however the Silence S02 range is the first of its breed that I’m delighted to recommend to my clients - it’s the ideal fully-electric choice as part of a heavy-use city fleet. With an entry-level model suitable for 16 year olds (require a CBT) right up to the long range (90 mile) option, this really does meet all business user requirements.'
Today more than 21,000 Silence e-moto scooters are already on the streets of cities across Europe. The S02 models have become the favoured fleet partners of forward-thinking organisations from police forces and local authorities to smart eco-conscious delivery and takeaway companies, who are enjoying the benefits, including:
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Low running costs - 80% lower than the equivalent conventional scooter;
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Low charging costs - as little as £1 per 100 miles;
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Low service and repair costs - cut by 30% per scooter.
Brian Bachelor, concluded:
'With our unrivalled fleet experience we are able to provide advice and support with technical specifications, grant applications, fleet pricing and financing arrangements for your complete fleet requirements from 2 to 4 wheels!'
If you would like to discuss how Silence can become part of your e-fleet solution get in touch with us today.
E-Van Guru Secures Dynamo Taxis' First Authorised Dealer
The Taxi Shop, the largest taxi supplier in England and Wales, has been awarded the first Dynamo Electric Taxi franchise.
The Taxi Shop will cover South East England however there are still opportunities for franchise partnerships in the North and South West of England, Wales and Scotland.
Rob Breuilly, Managing Director and owner of The Taxi Shop, said:
'The shift to hybrid and electric vehicles is inevitable and is happening faster than many think. The Taxi Shop prides itself on being innovative and winning this franchise for the new Nissan NV200 fully electric hackney taxi, known as the Dynamo, demonstrates our future strategy'.
Whilst the environmental benefits are compelling for the switch to electric so are the cost benefits. Research shows that an average taxi driver in London covers a distance of 90 to 120 miles a day, spending roughly £25 in fuel a day. Using a home charger, it will cost Dynamo Taxi drivers £3 to £6 in electricity to cover the same distance, saving drivers roughly £20 a day in running costs alone.
Rob Breuilly, continued:
'For this opportunity we looked carefully at the savings drivers and fleet owners can make over a five-year period. We calculate a £17,255.00 saving over five years against a typical new diesel minibus. Be in no doubt, the trade is gradually getting greener, driven by government and local authority regulations, and we are part of that journey.
We believe the time is now for smart operators to take advantage of the savings a fully electric offers in the mid- and long-term.'
Brian Bachelor, Managing Director of E-Van Guru said:
'I have been overwhelmed by the positive response we've had to the launch of Dynamo's authorised dealership network, and it's exciting to announce The Taxi Shop as our first partner. We're currently looking to recruit several franchise partners across the UK, with Scotland and Wales particular areas of interest so I would encourage anyone that is interested to get in touch now.'