Cutting fleet costs with data

Today, companies need accurate, real-time data to make well-informed decisions for everything, including mobility. Managing a fleet is becoming increasingly complex, and companies sometimes have to make use of telematics data to streamline operations, manage costs, and achieve sustainability targets which, might not be the ideal solution as it can be seen as invasive through the constant tracking of the vehicle.

By tracking and analysing employee mobility patterns, companies can make practical, evidence-based decisions, whether it’s adjusting fleet size, improving charging infrastructure, or refining their mobility policy. For instance, data might reveal that some employees do not need to use fast charging. Outlining such details in the company’s car policy can help cut costs and would ensure fair and efficient use of resources. Mobility insights can also reveal that the car isn’t the best option and therefore help proposing alternative transport options for employees, encouraging more sustainable and cost-effective travel choices.

Data Insights for improved efficiency and fleet costs optimisation

Fleet data provides valuable insights to help companies optimise vehicle use, manage - and reduce - energy consumption, and lower inefficiencies. These data can also be used to implement cost-saving measures, such as:

• Offering lower-cost lease contracts with reduced annual mileage for employees who are not driving a lot.
• Identifying inefficiencies such as excessive idle fees and fast charging fees, underused cars, and finding solutions to reduce these costs (e.g. carpooling, employee contribution fee, shared pool cars, etc.)
• Detecting unusual charging patterns that may indicate fraudulent use of company charging cards.
• Determining which employees would benefit from a home charging station based on their driving habits with an amendment to the mobility policy in that regard.
• Set charging card limits for employees with minimal professional driving needs (on amounts, charging types, countries). This helps reduce unnecessary charging costs, especially when cards are used for private travel (e.g., holidays).

Improving Fleet Efficiency and Sustainability

Beyond cost savings, analysing fleet data can also improve safety, energy efficiency, and help meet sustainability goals. Understanding driver behaviour and vehicle usage patterns helps companies optimise routes (or relocate their office(s)), reduce unnecessary fuel or energy consumption, and increase vehicle lifespans. Predictive maintenance insights can also help know if a breakdown is on its way and prevent potential costly repairs… keeping fleets running smoothly basically!

Nothing Great Comes Easy

Fleet data collection can provide companies with a lot of valuable insights to improve their mobility. However, data-driven mobility management also comes with challenges. Companies must keep employee privacy and data protection regulations in mind, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other relevant laws. Furthermore, implementing data management systems requires investment in technology and ongoing maintenance to ensure accurate and reliable insights.