A new report showing how technology can drive operational modernisation for fleets is now out from Samsara.
Its survey of 150 fleet managers uncovers a long list of operational challenges that businesses need to overcome, which include tackling the driver shortage, improving road safety, increasing efficiency and battling fuel costs.
The research, presented in the ‘2023: The Road Ahead’ report, also reveals the challenges from the growth of Low Emission Zones/Clean Air Zones, plus the transition to electric vehicles and alternative fuel sources.
While such a long list could lead some to conclude that the industry faces a near impossible task, operators are already taking action to modernise their fleets. Key priorities including upgrading vehicles (98%), increasing the sustainability (82%) and moving to electric or hybrid vehicles (82%).
The findings also show an appetite among fleet managers to adopt more technology. In total, 94% of fleet managers are investing in new technology in 2023 to boost operational modernisation and improve the driver experience. The majority see clear benefits to introducing connected technologies such as sensors and dashcams, including reduced paperwork (82%), improved supply chain efficiency (75%) and the ability to more easily transition to EVs or hybrid vehicles (68%).
Drivers are also widely supportive of the uptake of more technology. A separate Samsara-commissioned survey of 1,000 commercial drivers of small and large vans, HGVs and other vehicles revealed large numbers believe a variety of connected technologies would have a positive impact on their job, including dashcams (78%), GPS routing (77%), and mobile-based workflow tools (68%).
“Fleet managers recognise that technology can play a big role in creating a modern fleet and — critically — so do their drivers,” said Philip van der Wilt, SVP and general manager EMEA, Samsara. “More importantly, fleet managers understand the importance of data to power their operations to make them safer, more efficient and more sustainable.
“Our findings confirm what we have known for some time — that if fleets want to future-proof their operations, they need to modernise and embrace technology. All of the challenges detailed in this report — from high fuel costs and driver shortages to regulatory changes, road safety, and the transition to EVs — can be mitigated by using smart, connected technology. As this report shows, fleet managers are moving to embrace technology to modernise their fleets. Those who don’t will be in danger of getting increasingly left behind and losing competitive advantage,” added van der Wilt.
To access the Samsara report, please click here.
