Global vehicle lifecycle management provider Solera Holdings LLC released new research of small fleet owners, operators, and drivers identifying current pain points and future opportunities in the industry.
Among study findings is a priority by fleets to leverage AI to streamline maintenance, speed up driver workflows and improve risk capture.
Solera said it conducted a survey of 300 small- and medium-sized fleet decision makers in July 2023. The findings show that smaller fleets are feeling the impacts of the current economic headwinds and personnel issues, but do see ways in which technology – specifically AI – can streamline operations and help bottom lines.
“While the fleet industry is facing uncertainty as a result of soaring costs and continued disruption, technology is continually emerging as a differentiator for those looking to stay ahead,” said Mark Freitas, vice president, product management, Solera. “Our survey shows that small and medium-sized fleet managers are interested in cutting-edge tech like AI and ML to optimize their operations and future-proof their businesses and allow them to compete at a larger scale.”
With AI’s influence growing in the trucking industry, 51% of small fleets said they were either considering plans to add AI or actively exploring ways to tap the technology’s potential, according to the Solera study. An additional 8% reported they were already utilizing the technology. In the same survey, 40% of respondents noted they’d be interested in using AI to capture risks via video and streamline maintenance schedules, while over one-third would like to use it to speed up driver workflows, Solera said.
Solera Conference
Solera also announced its Solera | Sylectus User Conference, Sept. 20-22 in Nashville, is designed for SMBs looking to further explore tech solutions for their fleet. Company representatives will be onsite to explain Solera’s Fleet Solutions and how SMBs can integrate them into their current operations.
Conference sessions designed for SMBs, include:
- Harnessing Ambition and Drive to Fuel You and Your Team – A Fireside Chat with NASCAR Hall of Famer, Jeff Gordon
- Rev Up Your Recruiting Strategy: Driver Hiring & Retention Tactics for a Modern Workforce (with The National Transportation Institute)
- Government Regulations: What Should They Take On & What Should They Stay Away From (with TCA).
