Fleet managers are embracing AI with almost half already using the revolutionary technology or are planning to in the next five years, according to research.

The study among 1,800 fleet managers in 15 countries found a growing trend towards digital transformation across the UK, with 48% already relying on AI or gearing up to using it.

It found 15% were using AI in their fleet management, with 33% actively planning to do so and 43% considering its adoption in the future.

However, UK fleet managers still think that electric vehicles will be more influential than AI, according to the Webfleet research.

More than a third (38%) predicted EVs will have the biggest impact on fleet management in the next five years, with 28% citing AI and machine learning.

This contrasts with global figures where most fleet managers (32%) thought AI will have the biggest impact, followed by EVs (30%).

More than half (58%) believed AI will help optimise route planning and logistics, while 51% anticipated it enhancing driver safety, behaviour analysis, predictive maintenance and asset management.

The push towards AI comes as fleets seek to cut costs and improve efficiency, with 50% predicting its emergence will reduce operational expenses and 47% expecting it to automate administrative and compliance tasks.

UK fleet operators still think that electric vehicles will be more influential than AI

UK fleet operators still think that electric vehicles will be more influential than AI

Source: Cameron Wells

Beverley Wise, Webfleet UKI regional director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said: “The adoption of AI in fleet management is set to become much more than just a technological upgrade.

“It will prove a strategic necessity as the world of business enters a new data-driven era.

“Our study has shown that a significant number of fleets recognise the transformative benefits of AI, from cost reduction to improved safety.

“As the industry sets its sights on greater efficiency and sustainability, embracing AI will be crucial for those that hope to remain competitive.”

AI adoption is also seen as a key driver for enhancing environmental sustainability.

According to the study, 43% of fleet managers believed AI would significantly boost fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

This aligns with broader industry goals of reducing carbon footprints and advancing eco-friendly operations.

The transition to AI, however, is not without challenges. The study revealed that 59% of those concerned about AI’s impact cited the risk of data security breaches as a primary issue.

Elsewhere, the study found that 87% of respondents planned to increase their total investment in digital fleet solutions over the next five years.

This will be driven by a need for greater efficiency and reduced operational costs, cited by more than half (57%) of the respondents as the most compelling reason for an uplift in tech spending.

“The move towards digital solutions, including AI, is a clear indication of where the future of fleet management is headed,” added Wise.

“Fleet operators are looking for ways to optimise their operations, enhance safety and meet sustainability goals. Digital tools can offer a powerful solution, providing real-time data and insights that can lead to smarter and more efficient decision-making.”

Last month, drain services firm Lanes Group said the safety of its fleet operations had been boosted after it implemented Samsara’s suite of AI solutions.

It installed dual-facing AI dash cams, vehicle gateways and digital workflows to generate data that identified and addressed on-road risks, as well as shaped incentive programmes.

As a result, Lanes Group said there had been a 72% increase in driver safety scores in eight months following the introduction of the tech.

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