5 technologies for better fleets
As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, fleet management should also keep evolving to make the most of these technologies. From electric vehicles to advanced analytics, here are some of the key technologies shaping fleets and fleet management.
Vehicle electrification
Electric, plug in hybrid and hybrid vehicles are growing in popularity with fleet managers. These vehicles can offer significant savings on fuel costs, as well as reduced emissions and improved environmental sustainability. As the technology continues to improve, charging infrastructure grows and legislatively incentives and deterrents are introduced, we can expect to see an even greater adoption of electric vehicles in fleets. Each year we see in our International Industry benchmarks, that diesel vehicles are declining in popularity and the share of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continues to grow.
New OEMs are entering the European market bringing a new range of EV makes and models in all segment levels. This increased EV diversification will only continue to grow the popularity of EVs among consumers.
By connecting vehicles and other fleet assets, fleet managers can remotely monitor and control key functions such as fuel consumption, speed, and location. Fleet managers are connecting vehicles and leveraging advanced analytics to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their fleets. By collecting and analysing data on everything from fuel consumption to driver behaviour, fleet managers can make data-driven decisions that lead to cost savings and a safer fleet. At LeasePlan we offer My Fleet (International) for fleet reporting. Here fleet managers can view key fleet figures like damages, costs, upcoming renewals, fleet composition and track the trends over the years.
Autonomous vehicles
While fully autonomous vehicles are not yet ready for widespread deployment, many fleet managers are already testing and implementing semi-autonomous features such as lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies can help to reduce accidents and improve overall fleet safety. In 2023 Mercedes will be releasing a vehicle with level 3 autonomous driving features, which will give the car the ability to handle all aspects of driving. A driver will still be needed with level 3 as they will need to take over the vehicle at a moment’s notice. While we don’t expect completely autonomous vehicles (level 5) to be hitting the streets anytime soon, it’s important for fleet managers to stay on top of developments and be ready to adjust policies to meet these new technologies.
Blockchain technology
Blockchain technology is increasingly being used in fleet management to ensure the authenticity, integrity, and traceability of data. Within the automotive industry blockchain is used to track individual vehicles and parts from development to use and post-sale. Tracking individual vehicles or parts can come in handy when tackling counterfeit products or managing product recalls. Blockchain can also be used to automate various processes such as invoicing, payments, and compliance.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence is being integrated into fleet management systems to improve decision making and automate routine tasks. AI can be used to predict maintenance needs, optimize routes, and even assist with driver training. Within fleet management there are a few practical applications for AI including, resale valuation predictors, contact centre technologies and uptime management through predictive maintenance and appointment planning. At LeasePlan, AI is used in a number of ways including automating maintenance approvals so experts can spend more time on more complex repair or maintenance jobs.
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As these trends and technologies continue to evolve and mature, fleet managers will be able to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their fleets. The key is to stay informed and flexible as the industry evolves. We’re following these trends and new technologies closely at LeasePlan and aim to provide up to date information and proactive support to our clients and drivers.
