BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions is developing financial solutions to support energy transition. The company is now offering financial solutions for the installation of electric charging stations all over France.

The charging stations market is booming

BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions assists companies with energy transition by financing equipment which generate less pollution and consume less energy. Developing the national network of electric charging stations is a major part of France’s transition to cleaner sources of energy. Providing enough stations to facilitate recharging is key to encouraging users to opt for cleaner, rechargeable electric or hybrid vehicles.

A widely accessible finance solution
BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions proposes rental contracts of four to five years. These solutions will be offered:

Indirectly

• via manufacturers of charging stations which deal directly with companies;
• electricity fitters which propose equipment with services;
• companies that propose long-term rental packages including cars and charging stations;
• energy providers which lease charging points to their customers with a special rate for electricity;
• vehicle manufacturers or dealerships which offer cars with charging stations.

Directly

• to professional clients of the BNP Paribas banking network;
• to clients of BNP Paribas Rental Solutions Trucks when electric trucks join the market;
• more generally, ti any company needing charging points for their vehicles.

Why install electric charging stations?

There are several reasons motivating companies to convert to rechargeable electric and hybrid vehicles. First and foremost, it contributes to their brand image and corporate social responsibility approach, internally as well as externally. Tenders now very often include a “responsibility” section so this can also give them a competitive edge. It also meets the expectations of employees who aspire to work for companies that are concerned about their environmental impact.

Converting to rechargeable hybrid and electric vehicles is also cost effective because they are less expensive to maintain. Furthermore, recharging with electricity costs 2 to 3 times less than a tank of fuel, depending on the type of vehicle. Given decreasing battery prices and increasing battery life, companies are more and more inclined to choose this source of energy because it is not only cleaner, but also cheaper.

Finally, regulatory pressure can also motivate companies to convert to electric vehicles. For example, vehicles which pollute and emit too much CO2 are no longer allowed in certain cities. As a result, certain haulage companies will soon be obliged to convert their fleets to stay in business. Besides, a European directive requires the creation of a parking-space quota reserved for electric vehicles. And parking management companies will also have to provide charging stations for their customers.

Why is leasing the most pertinent finance solution for the installation of charging stations?

The electric vehicle market is innovating constantly and the technology is developing very rapidly. This is particularly the case for batteries which must meet constantly higher expectations for power, autonomy and charge time. As a result, charging stations need to be increasingly smart and will need to be changed regularly to keep up with technological progress. Unlike loans, rental solutions allow companies to renew their equipment and stay at the cutting edge of technology for optimal efficiency and performance.

“All companies would like a cleaner electric vehicle fleet but rightfully so, tend to avoid investing heavily in new technology. We offer leasing solutions so companies can afford innovative equipment with less asset risk and optimal cash flow. It is our pleasure to guide them on this route to effective commercial growth and improved sustainability,” said Charlotte Dennery, CEO of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions.

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