Image: OpenreachJudy O’Keefe, Director of Fleet at Openreach, described the milestone as ‘massive,’ but said the significance lies in the operational model behind the deployment. According to Openreach, the transition from diesel has been guided by practical considerations rather than symbolic targets. Engineers use the vans to build and maintain the company’s full-fibre broadband network across the UK, carrying tools and equipment to sites ranging from remote rural areas to city centres.The company said it has used operational data, including mileage and driving patterns, alongside feedback from engineers to determine which electric vans are suitable for different roles. Openreach added that driver engagement has been an important factor during the transition, particularly as employees adapt to charging routines and revised journey planning.“That’s why our move away from diesel hasn’t been about making a statement. It’s been about making it work,” O’Keefe said. “Electric vehicles need to make sense for the business and the people using them every day.”Charging infrastructure has been identified as one of the key challenges in scaling the electric fleet. To address this, Openreach said it has installed more than 4,000 charge points at engineers’ homes and operational sites. Shared and bookable depot charging has also been deployed for employees without access to home charging. Openreach is additionally trialling cross-pavement charging systems with a group of engineers to assess usability and safety.“One of the clearest lessons we’ve learned is that charging is where fleet electrification either works or doesn’t,” O’Keefe said.openreach.com