Fleet Management , Fleet Consulting

2021 Trends Influencing the Future of Fleet

By Avis Fleet
August 24, 2020
Man sitting in bubble chair wearing VR gear

 

How technology is going to shape the future of Fleet Management

It was imperative that Fleet Managers and stakeholders were quick on their feet and agile enough to deal with the impositions, limitations and implications afforded by COVID-19.

 

The end of the pandemic is not yet in sight, however as we embrace this “new normal” and the light at the end of the tunnel is still a glimmer, there are technological changes and Fleet Management industry trends that have risen to the fore due to COVID-19 and which for the most part will likely remain.

 

We have rounded up a few these; let us know which ones you’re familiar with and any new ones you find interesting.

 

Remote Fleet Management Software

Even though managing stakeholders from afar is par the course for many a Fleet Manager, and other than the use of telematics, Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and in-cab video, fleet management software adaption for remote working has been put to the test.

 

It has been necessary to expand on how fleet management software is utilised to fill in the gaps created through the challenges of remote working.

 

Implementing Health and Safety Measures

While not a technological trend, the imminence of a third wave as South Africa enters the winter season points to the continuing importance and upkeep of necessary COVID-19 health protocols and regulations.

 

Whether during inspections, ensuring your drivers are adequately suited up with protective equipment or customers feel safe using your services, adhering to health protocols helps to engender organisational trust especially during difficult times.

 

Big Data – Not Just a Buzzword!

‘Data. Insight, through data. Not data for data's sake. Data is the new oil,’ this is according to the chairman of the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), Paul Hollick.

 

Through the optimisation of metrics available to Fleet Managers there is a wealth of data accrual which when utilised appropriately is insightful with the possibility of bringing further efficiency to Fleet Management.

 

Lower-Level Autonomous Capabilities

The advent of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology in South Africa is still a few years in the making – and government is appropriately preparing.

 

The introduction of lower-level autonomous capabilities technology such as Automated Lane Keeping System (ALKS) – technology that takes control of your vehicle to ensure it stays in the correct lane – might not be as far off in the future.

 

ALKS technology could help reduce the rate of accidents caused by driver fatigue brought on by long distance journeys.

 

Avis Fleet technology is dedicated to being on the forefront of technology that enables and improves your business, making your life easier.

 

Beating Mid-Year Fatigue

The month of June – which is a mere few weeks away – heralds the halfway mark of the year. Much like 2020, 2021 has been a year of further adjusting to the changes that COVID-19 has brought about to the Fleet Management Industry.

 

The term “mid-year burnout” is also synonymous for this time of year and this burnout is compounded by the equalising circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

So, whether you’re a stakeholder in the position of a driver taking those long-distance trips and providing essential services to those who need them or are a Fleet Manager supervising a team remotely or otherwise, it is imperative that we all show up and support one another in our diverse roles adequately.

 

The following are a few actionable measures to help avoid the possibility of a mid-year slump.

 

Get Enough Sleep

We’ve all heard this a thousand times, but the importance and benefits of sleep cannot be overstated.

 

Studies show that there is a direct corelation between lack of sleep, fatigue, and loss in concentration.

 

Nutrition and Exercise

There is no doubt that the pandemic has amplified stress levels across the board and prolonged stress has the effect of weakening our immune system and by exchange our bodies.

 

Eating a healthy balanced diet and getting adequate exercise help relieve stress, increase mental well-being, and overall health.

 

Take Time Off

Don’t wait for Easter or the festive season to take a day off to recalibrate and rest.

 

As much as our society thrives on the hustle mentality, your team needs you functioning at optimum, and adequate rest is pivotal in ensuring this.

 

Avis Fleet is an innovator and leader in the outsourced fleet management industry and has been in the business for more than 40 years.

 

We value our customers and long-term partnerships and are constantly seeking new ways to redefine the fleet industry and provide outstanding services.

 

Find out valuable information about our diverse Fleet Management solutions here.

 

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