Fleet Finance Sponsored by Fleet Finance News Key trends in fleet management for 2025 Published: 20th January 2025 Share Drawing on insights from a global survey of 1,800 fleet decision-makers, the Webfleet Fleet Digitisation Report 2024 provides a deep dive into the challenges, opportunities, and transformative potential of digital solutions in the fleet industry. The most significant findings and emerging trends to expect in 2025 are the need to reduce costs and improve efficiency, greater investment in digital solutions, a growth in electric vehicle adoption among commercial fleets, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into fleet management. Fleet digitisation is firmly established as a top priority for the vast majority of fleet managers. A striking 91% of those surveyed plan to increase their investment in digital fleet solutions over the next five years, while only 1% foresee any reduction. In more than half of the countries surveyed, no respondents at all expected a decrease in investment. This widespread commitment highlights the industry’s confidence in the ability of digital technologies to drive improvements in operational efficiency and overall fleet performance. Cost efficiency and safety emerge as the two primary goals for fleet managers. Reducing operational costs and improving efficiency are cited by 52% of respondents as the most compelling reasons for investing in digital solutions. Enhancing driver and vehicle safety follows closely behind, with 49% identifying it as a key motivator. However, implementing these solutions is not without its challenges. High implementation and maintenance costs are noted as a significant barrier by 47% of fleet managers, while 40% point to difficulties in integrating new systems with existing processes as a major concern. These challenges emphasise the need for affordable, seamlessly integrative technologies to help fleets achieve their objectives. The potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) is also highlighted as a major driver of change in fleet management. Nearly a third of fleet managers, 32%, believe AI will have the biggest impact on the industry over the next five years. Optimised route planning and improved driver safety are among the most anticipated applications of AI, with many managers seeing these technologies as pivotal to their day-to-day operations. Despite the excitement surrounding AI, only 21% of respondents express concerns about its possible negative effects, indicating a high level of confidence in its positive contributions. The transition toward sustainability is another prominent trend identified in the report. A significant 85% of fleet managers expect an increase in the number of electric and hybrid vehicles in their fleets within the next five years. This anticipated shift underscores the growing commitment to greener, more environmentally friendly transportation solutions. The electrification of fleets is poised to play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and advancing global sustainability goals. The survey captures a global perspective, with insights drawn from fleet managers across Europe, North America, South America, Australia, South Africa, and the UAE. Light commercial vehicles and heavy commercial vehicles each make up the majority of vehicles in 40% of the surveyed fleets, while cars account for 19%. These findings reflect the diverse needs and priorities of fleet operators worldwide, offering a holistic view of the industry’s trajectory. In conclusion, the survey findings paints an optimistic picture of the future of fleet management. While challenges related to implementation and integration remain, these obstacles are surmountable and do little to dampen the enthusiasm for technological advancement. Fleet managers are ready to embrace cutting-edge tools such as AI, IoT, and autonomous vehicles, which promise to deliver on the industry’s core priorities of cost efficiency, safety, and sustainability. As the fleet management landscape continues to evolve, the adoption of advanced digital solutions will be essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive. The commitment to innovation reflected in this report signals a promising future for fleets worldwide, one that is safer, more efficient, and increasingly sustainable. Lisa Laverick Editor - Asset Finance Connect Sign up to our newsletter Featured Stories NewsSenior management changes at Lightfoot NewsArval’s analysis reveals longevity of EV batteries NewsAyvens sets aside €93m for UK motor finance probe Fleet Finance