Automotive Fleet

In this Automotive Fleet on the Move interview, John Poindexter, founder and CEO of JB Poindexter & Co., shared how his company is approaching growth across its multiple divisions, with each introducing new products or concepts as part of its ongoing expansion. A major development has been the acquisition and integration of its ambulance division, Demers Braun Crestline Medix (DBCM). While consolidation has been a key part of JB Poindexter’s strategy, he noted there is still room in the market for smaller players and startups to compete. At the same time, emerging technologies are beginning to influence how the industry operates. AI is in its early stages of adoption in areas such as information gathering and customer interactions, while advancements in camera systems are improving vehicle visibility and safety. Together, these developments point to a future where data, technology, and design play an increasingly central role in fleet and upfit operations. 🧭 Topics Discussed:• New product introductions across multiple upfit divisions • Expansion into the ambulance market through a recent acquisition • Consolidation strategy and national growth footprint • Opportunities for smaller players in the upfit industry • Early-stage use of AI in operations and customer engagement • The growing role of camera systems for safety and visibility 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com/newsletter-signup?utm_source=dragonform&utm_medium=email_subscriptions_optins&utm_campaign=af_website_100&pk=af_website_100 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

In this Automotive Fleet on the Move video, the conversation centers on one of the most consistent contributors to fleet incidents: mobile device distraction. Rather than relying solely on policies or post-incident coaching, fleets are exploring ways to remove the distraction altogether by limiting phone use while the vehicle is in motion.Lifesaver Mobile is one example of this approach, designed to control mobile device use while driving and to integrate with telematics platforms like Geotab. In this video, Ted Chen, cofounder of Lifesaver Mobile, explains that the goal is not only to reduce distraction but also to connect that behavior into a broader safety ecosystem.As these systems evolve, they are extending beyond prevention. Chen explains that by linking driver behavior to real-time vehicle and location data, fleets can gain greater visibility and enable faster, more informed responses when incidents occur—reflecting a broader shift toward proactive, connected safety strategies. Topics DiscussedThe impact of mobile device distraction on fleet safetyWhy policies alone often fall shortApproaches to restricting phone use while drivingIntegration with Geotab and telematics systemsMoving from reactive coaching to proactive risk reductionConnecting driver behavior to real-time safety insightsThe evolving role of connected fleet safety technologies#fleetmanagement #automotivefleet #fleetsafety 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com/news... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

Following several years of pent-up demand driven by supply chain disruptions, the commercial truck market is entering a new phase that is defined less by shortages and more by uncertainty. We caught up with Charles Bowles of Commercial Truck Trader, who described how recent demand for replacements has largely been met. At the same time, external factors such as tariffs (yes, still tariffs!) and geopolitical disruptions are making it difficult to predict pricing and supply conditions.Rather than a single defining issue, the market is being shaped by a combination of variables that can shift quickly, leaving fleets and dealers in a holding pattern as they await greater clarity. Catch up on recent trends → https://www.automotive-fleet.com/10257256/whats-really-happening-in-fleet-supply-right-nowOr get it straight to your inbox by signing up for the AF newsletter! → https://www.automotive-fleet.com/newsletter-signup?utm_source=dragonform&utm_medium=email_subscriptions_optins&utm_campaign=af_website_100&pk=af_website_100 #trucking #automotivefleet #tariffs

As costs and complexity escalate, Merchants Fleet’s CEO outlines how fleets must rethink uptime and TCO to drive business performance.In this edition of the State of the Fleet Industry video series, Chris Brown speaks with  @merchantsfleet  CEO Matt Dyer about what it really means for fleet to operate beyond a cost center and as a revenue driver in 2026. With higher costs, longer repair cycles, and more variables to manage, fleets are under pressure to make faster, smarter decisions that directly impact business performance. Dyer points to uptime, total cost of ownership (TCO), and data utilization as the key levers fleets must actively manage to stay competitive. He also emphasizes that success today demands tighter policies, stronger partnerships, and a willingness to adapt — from rethinking maintenance approvals to exploring alternative OEM strategies and maximizing vehicle utilization. 🧭Topics Discussed: - Why fleet performance is now tied directly to business revenue - Improving uptime through faster service and approval processes - Managing TCO amid rising cap costs, interest rates, and maintenance expenses - Reducing delays through better order-to-delivery and upfit strategies - Using connected vehicle data to improve decision-making - Maximizing utilization to get more productivity from existing assets - The growing need for flexibility, partnerships, and broader fleet strategies 🚗 Check out Automotive Fleet's site! https://www.automotive-fleet.com/#automotivefleet #fleet #strategy #oem

In this Automotive Fleet on the Move interview, Charles Matthew, director of acquisitions at  @merchantsfleet  , outlines the current state of fleet supply and why now is a critical moment for planning.While conditions have stabilized in some areas, pressure points remain. Hybrid vehicles are still constrained, cargo van demand is rising quickly, and upcoming EPA regulations could significantly impact costs. Add in geopolitical uncertainty and the potential for new supply chain ripple effects, and the window for proactive decision-making may be narrowing.Matthew’s advice is clear: fleets that delay ordering risk longer lead times, higher costs, and missed opportunities to stay ahead of demand.🧭 Topics Discussed:• Hybrid vehicle constraints and demand pressure • EPA 2027 regulations and potential cost increases • Cargo van availability vs. rising demand • Return of small vans like the Ram ProMaster City • Upfitting progress and recall-related bottlenecks • Geopolitical risks and supply chain uncertainty • Modular upfitting and flexibility opportunities#fleetmanagement #upfitsupply #vans #regulations 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com/newsletter-signup?utm_source=dragonform&utm_medium=email_subscriptions_optins&utm_campaign=af_website_100&pk=af_website_100 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

Automotive Fleet’s Chris Brown connects with Cesar Ayala, fleet manager at O’Connell Landscape Maintenance, to discuss his journey from military fleet operations to the civilian sector, where he now manages a large, diverse fleet across Southern California. Ayala oversees more than 460 vehicles, from sedans to heavy-duty trucks, supporting a wide geographic footprint. He shares insights into in-house maintenance strategies, driver training, and the growing importance of compliance in California. The conversation also explores the role of telematics, evolving cost pressures, and how fleet managers can extend vehicle life while maintaining uptime. Topics Discussed - Transitioning from military fleet operations to civilian fleet management = -- - Managing a diverse 460+ vehicle fleet across Southern California - In-house maintenance strategy and maximizing vehicle lifespan - Leveraging warranties and controlling maintenance costs - Building a structured driver training and safety program - Evaluating telematics for compliance, safety, and visibility - Navigating CARB regulations and English language compliance requirements #automotivefleet #telematics #militaryCatch Automotive Fleet's daily newsletters here: Automotive Fleet Industry Newsletters - Automotive Fleet

Video telematics has already transformed fleet safety, but according to Lytx CEO Chris Cabrera, the industry is only getting started.In this Automotive Fleet on the Move interview, Cabrera explains how the market is evolving from front-facing cameras into full 360-degree vehicle visibility, giving fleets more tools to protect drivers, assets, and the public. He also discusses how AI is helping fleets pull meaningful insights from massive amounts of video and telematics data — identifying risky behaviors, improving coaching, and surfacing information that would otherwise be impossible to find.The conversation also explores how fleets measure ROI, from avoiding lawsuits and exonerating drivers to reducing accidents, theft, and claims. Looking ahead, Cabrera sees a future where cameras come standard on every fleet vehicle, making it less about the equipment and more about what fleets do with the data.Topics Discussed• Lytx’s new products for mid-market and enterprise fleets• Why video telematics keeps growing• Shift from dash cams to 360-degree visibility• How AI turns video data into safety insights• Reducing accidents, claims, and nuclear verdict risk• OEM integration and factory-installed cameras• Why data — not cameras alone — is the real value#fleet #telematics #dashcam #fleetsafety #gps #automotivetechnology 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡Automotive Fleet Industry Newsletters

In a conversation with Chris Brown of Automotive Fleet, Bob Adamski, fleet manager at AWP Safety, shares how his 5,500-vehicle fleet is navigating renewed fuel volatility. With more than 30 years in the fleet industry, Adamski has a message for fleets: “Don’t panic.” Adamski encourages fleets to use rising fuel costs as a catalyst to more easily justify initiatives such as idle reduction, route optimization, and tighter controls on vehicle use.🧭 In this conversation: • Why fuel is one of the most volatile fleet costs • How price spikes can drive efficiency initiatives • How telematics and fuel cards improve control and accuracy • Where routing and vehicle use impact fuel spend • The trade-offs of pre-buying or fixed fuel pricing • Why fleets need a clear fuel strategy in place • The importance of communicating fuel initiatives internally Get more details on market turbulence → #fleetmanagement #fuelprices #automotivefleet 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ Automotive Fleet Industry Newsletters - Automotive Fleet 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

At ‪@Geotab‬ Connect 2026, Chris Brown of Automotive Fleet spoke with David Glines, Director of Product Management – Technology Products at Wheels about emerging technologies that are reshaping how fleets manage driver safety and data.Artificial intelligence is playing a major role in that shift. Instead of assigning generic safety training programs, new systems can analyze driver behavior and automatically generate personalized coaching and training modules tailored to individual drivers.Glines says these AI-powered tools can deliver targeted feedback in near real-time, helping drivers understand their behavior patterns and improve performance more effectively than traditional standardized courses.Glines also notes that interest in safety cameras has surged over the past year as costs decline and fleets increasingly recognize their value for improving driver behavior and reducing risk.However, he cautions that technology alone isn’t enough. Alerts and warnings inside the vehicle must be paired with ongoing coaching and support from safety managers to create lasting behavior change. (Note: The video identifies Wheels as Wheels, Inc., though the company now goes by Wheels.)🧭 Key Takeaways:• The growing role of OEM connected vehicle data in fleet management• How AI is transforming driver safety training through personalized coaching• Why fleets are seeing increased demand for video telematics and in-cab cameras• The importance of pairing technology alerts with human coaching• How fleets must adapt driver communication strategies for changing workforce expectations• Turning fleet data into actionable insights that improve driver behavior and safety#ai #driversafety #connectedvehicles #telematics 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ Automotive Fleet Industry Newsletters 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ Fleet News | Automotive Fleet

When multi-location, multi-brand trades organizations — including those backed by private equity — inherit fleets, they can feel like a difficult-to-manage cost center. Here’s the solution: standardization. Standardizing vehicle selectors and upfit packages reduces costs and turns fleet operations from a source of complexity into a competitive advantage.  In this recorded webinar, you’ll learn: • Common spec'ing pitfalls that lead to added cost, downtime, and inefficiency • How to develop gold standard specs across diverse home services fleets • Upfitting best practices that improve safety and productivity • Factors to consider as you scale • How a trades organization with 60+ brands and 5,500 vehicles saw big wins through standardization @MerchantsFleet @AdrianSteelCo 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com/ 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn ➡ / automotive-fleet Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook ➡ / automotivefleet Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter ➡ / automotivefleet

How much difference can a few seconds of data make in fleet safety?In this episode of Automotive Fleet on the Move, we connect with Steve Santostasi of @Ford Pro about how higher-resolution telematics data is giving fleets a clearer picture of driver behavior and safety events.Traditionally, many telematics systems have captured vehicle data in 30-second intervals. Moving to 5-second data intervals provides fleets with much more detailed insight into what actually happens before and during safety events — helping safety managers better understand risk patterns and improve driver coaching.🧭 In this conversation, we discuss:• Why higher-frequency telematics data matters for fleet safety• How can more detailed data improve crash analysis• What better visibility means for driver coaching and risk management• How connected vehicle data is shaping the future of fleet safety #fleet #telematics #dashcam #fleetsafety #gps #automotivetechnology

At Geotab Connect 2026 in Las Vegas, Chris Brown of Automotive Fleet sat down with industry veteran Rob Minton, who retired from Geotab and is now founder of Revved Up Strategies, to break down the most important fleet technology trends emerging from the conference.Minton highlights how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming fleet management, not just at the enterprise level, but also by making advanced analytics accessible to everyday fleet managers. He also discusses how real-time OEM data, AI-powered dashcams, and predictive maintenance are moving fleets beyond static dashboards toward dynamic, action-oriented operations.The conversation centers on how fleets can use these innovations to improve safety, reduce unnecessary maintenance costs, and make faster, smarter decisions.🧭 Key Takeaways Include:• The “democratization of AI” and what it means for fleet managers• Moving from static dashboards to living, real-time data environments• AI-powered safety tools embedded in dash cameras• The growing importance of near-real-time OEM data and data parity• Why predictive maintenance may finally be ready for prime time• How fleets can reduce overspending by shifting from preventive to predictive strategies#telematics #connectedvehicles #ai #fleetmanagement

In this episode of Automotive Fleet’s State of the Fleet Industry video series, Chris Brown sits down with auto industry analyst and media veteran Charlie Vogelheim to break down the fleet-relevant takeaways from CES 2026.From autonomous vehicles and driverless trucks to robotics, AI, and next-generation batteries, Vogelheim shares what stood out on the show floor. He highlights where real progress is being made and where concepts remain years away from commercial viability.🧭 Key topics include:• Why CES has become the mobility industry’s most important event• How AI is reshaping vehicles, factories, and fleet operations• The current reality of autonomous cars, robotaxis, and driverless trucks• Battery and energy innovations that could redefine fleet electrification• What fleet managers should watch — and what remains hype📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

In this episode of Automotive Fleet’s State of the Fleet Industry video series, ‪@Auto-Driveaway‬ President and CEO Rodney Ruth joins Chris Brown to break down how fleet vehicle transport and logistics are changing — and what it means for fleets and FMCs.Ruth explains how customer expectations for real-time visibility, tighter timelines, and centralized fleet management are driving new technology investments. He also compares brokers, tech platforms, gig-style models, and driveaway services, and why he believes a combination of technology plus human support is essential for complex moves and added services.The conversation closes with a look ahead at the next three to five years, including EV transport challenges, added services like storage, reconditioning, licensing and titling, and why being “the eyes and ears on the ground” will matter even more as fleets keep vehicles longer and redeploy them more frequently.🧭 Topics discussed:How technology and customer expectations have reshaped the vehicle transport landscapeWhy fleets are centralizing logistics and what that means for communication and visibilityThe differences between brokers, pure tech platforms, gig-style delivery, and driveaway servicesThe importance of added services: storage, detailing, damage handling, recalls, licensing, and titlingHow changing utilization patterns and redeployments are affecting demand for relocation servicesThe impact of EVs on transport, safety, and service needs over the next 3–5 years📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d...🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on:Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

This Automotive Fleet on the Move episode takes viewers to the 2025 Fleet Forward Conference’s closing keynote, where Ted Cannis cut through the noise around electrification, tariffs, and technology hype to focus on what’s ahead for fleets. The former head of Ford Pro sat down with Automotive Fleet’s Chris Brown at the conference to discuss his experience leading EV programs, navigating Wall Street expectations, and working with major fleets in New York and around the world. Cannis shared how every fleet must build its own playbook rather than follow retail trends.🧭 Key Takeaways Include: Understanding internal needs to identify fleet gaps. Using data and scorecards to manage partners. Bringing in expertise for safety, maintenance, and telematics. Presenting ROI-driven cases to senior leadership. Preparing for specialized roles in a tech-driven fleet. What Cannis had to say: • 00:00–03:40 — Fleet vs Retail Realities• 03:40–07:00 — Tariffs & Supply Chain Volatility• 07:00–11:00 — EV Reset & Slowed Model Redesigns• 11:00–15:18 — Electricity Costs & Fleet Charging Economics• 15:18–17:15 — China Lessons: Charging & Policy• 17:15–21:10 — What Software-Defined Vehicles Mean• 21:10–24:20 — ADAS, Alcohol Detection & Cybersecurity• 24:20–28:04 — Connected Ecosystems & Telematics• 28:04–35:44 — Global Competition & the 12–18 Month Outlook📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

This special Automotive Fleet On the Move episode takes convened at the 2025 Fleet Forward Conference in San Diego, where Chris Brown of Automotive Fleet sits down with actor Dean Norris to see whether he has what it takes to become an “honorary member” of the fleet community. Norris, known for Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, and over a hundred roles across TV and film, talks about the vehicles he drove on set, his memories growing up around cars, and how running his own bar and restaurant gave him a new appreciation for keeping things moving. After a series of lighthearted questions, we reveal whether he’s officially fleet-worthy.📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

Fuel card fraud is accelerating, from misuse and first-party scams to sophisticated phishing and account takeovers. The cost of fraud is speeding up, too. In fact, fraud can consume up to 20% of your annual fleet spend. It’s time to take control. Join WEX’s leading product and fraud experts for How AI-Powered Fraud Prevention Saves Fleets Money, a free webinar revealing how artificial intelligence and telematics data can revolutionize your fleet’s fraud protection. This webinar will teach you how to: 1) Catch fraud in real time, before it hits your bottom line.2) Integrate telematics into your fraud protection to verify purchases in eta into clear, actionable insights.5) Tune in to discover how AI-powered fleet tools can cut fraud losses by up to 25%, block 32% more fraudulent transactions than other tools, and keep your drivers and your operations moving.Move into the fast lane against fraud. Watch How AI-Powered Fraud Prevention Saves Fleets Money to speed up your fleet’s fraud protection. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn ➡   / automotive-fleet   Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook ➡   / automotivefleet   Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter ➡   / automotivefleet  

Joost de Vries, CEO of ‪@ZMTrucks‬ , discusses the company’s U.S. entry strategy, product lineup, and how it will stand out in the crowded electric truck market.In this episode of Automotive Fleet’s On the Move, we sit down with Joost de Vries, CEO of ZM Trucks, a new player bringing commercial EV trucks to the U.S. market. From their global roots to their North American ambitions, de Vries explains how ZM Trucks plans to deliver reliable, purpose-built EVs that fleets can adopt today.We cover topics like product development, charging solutions, fleet partnerships, and how ZM is preparing for the competitive landscape ahead. If you want to know where the EV truck market is headed — and how a new brand intends to carve its niche — this conversation is for you.🧭 Key Takeaways Why ZM Trucks chose the U.S. market and how they’re positioning themselves against established OEMs.The company’s first commercial EV models and their target fleet applications.Insights into production, supply chain, and manufacturing strategies.How ZM Trucks is addressing fleet concerns around charging, range, and total cost of ownership.The importance of partnerships with fleets and dealers in ZM’s go-to-market plan.Broader perspective on the future of EV adoption in the commercial trucking space.📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

In the latest episode of Automotive Fleet on the Move, recorded at Holman Drive in Miami Beach, Chris Brown sits down with Ed Powell, director of consulting services at Holman, to take stock of the fleet environment as the industry moves into 2026. Powell describes the moment as a mix of stability and continued disruption: ordering has normalized, but cost pressures, tariffs, and talent shortages remain in play.Used-vehicle values are also firming again as new-vehicle prices climb past $50,000 and tight model-year supply continues to constrain the pipeline. Powell expects 2026 to bring further stabilization and possibly increases in resale values. He also stresses that technology and communication will be critical tools for navigating another potentially turbulent year.Key Takeaways:• Ordering and allocations have stabilized, but tariffs and parts inflation continue to push repair costs higher.• Operating-cost inflation is easing from recent peaks but remains well above pre-pandemic norms.• Used-vehicle prices are rebounding as new-vehicle MSRPs hit record highs and late-model supply stays thin.• 2026 could bring modest resale-value increases as lease returns normalize.• AI tools, PM compliance tech, and embedded safety systems offer the strongest near-term ROI.• Fleet managers should expand planning horizons and communicate early to manage rising KPIs and budget risk.📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🎧 Prefer to listen? Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts ➡ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify ➡ https://open.spotify.com/show/6UwWmKI...

In this episode of State of the Fleet Industry, Chris Brown talks with John Wegman, executive director of Hyundai Motor America Fleet, about how Hyundai is positioning itself in the fleet market. The conversation explores the company’s growing presence with commercial and government buyers, the product mix that is driving interest, and how Hyundai is structuring dealer and technology support to better serve fleets.We cover: Current areas of fleet activity across commercial and government segments.Model mix and why sedans remain in the portfolio alongside hybrids/EVs.The Hyundai Business Network pilot and what participating dealers are expected to provide.Standard safety features at base trims and how packaging is structured.Connected-vehicle functions available through Blue Link, including alerting options.Recent fleet volume trends and delivery timing considerations.Near-term focus areas and open questions around future products (e.g., trucks/vans).Learn more on ⁠www.automotive-fleet.com⁠!

Join Chris Brown of Automotive Fleet and Dr. Andreas Zygan, head of development for Mercedes-Benz Vans, for a tour of the Vision V concept vehicle. Vision V showcases the brand’s new scalable van architecture launching in 2026, which will underpin the upcoming VLE and VLS models. Designed for both private and commercial applications — from the C-Suite, VIP shuttles, and hotel fleets — the Vision V “grand limousine” is designed around luxury, flexibility, and advanced technology. Dr. Zygan shares how this concept demonstrates the design and functionality direction for future Mercedes vans.Mercedes-Benz will launch the VLE on its newly developed, modular, and scalable van architecture in 2026, followed by the top-end VLS. 🧭 Learn during the walkthrough: How Vision V concept previews 2026 Mercedes-Benz scalable van platform for passenger and commercial use and debut with VLE and VLS modelsDesigned for C-Suite, premium shuttle, executive transport, and hospitality fleetsConfigurable layouts to balance passenger comfort and cargo/luggage capacityOptions for electric or combustion powertrains to fit infrastructure readiness in different marketsConcept offers a forward look at luxury van features that could cascade into future commercial modelsLearn more on www.automotive-fleet.com!

In this episode of Automotive Fleet On the Move,Editor Chris Brown interviews John B. Poindexter, Chairman, CEO, and sole owner of JB Poindexter & Co. With $2.5 billion in annual revenues and a portfolio of nine dynamic subsidiaries, JBPCO plays a pivotal role across the commercial vehicle body and upfit markets.Poindexter discusses how his company has evolved over 40years into a commercial work truck powerhouse with major holdings like Morgan Corporation and Morgan Olson. Learn how JBPCO is leveraging innovation through its electric and alternative fuels venture, EAVX, and preparing for a futurewhere technological revolution defines success.#commercialvehicles #trucks #truckbody #truckbodybuilding@jbpoindextercompany490

In this episode of State of the Fleet Industry, ChrisBrown speaks with Ted Cannis, former CEO of Ford Pro, about what fleets are overlooking right now and what they need to do to prepare for the next wave of disruption. Based on his experience building Ford Pro into a $70 billionoperation, Cannis shares practical insights on connected vehicle data, AI, and electrification. The conversation also previews his closing keynote at the 2025 Fleet Forward Conference.📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.d... 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

The State of the Fleet Industry Spotlight series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the fleet market and engages with fleet leaders on what’s driving it today. In this podcast, Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet, sat down with ‪@Geotab‬ leaders Branch, VP of Data & Analytics, Sabina Martin, VP of Product Management, and Neil Cawse, founder & CEO at the #GeotabConnect2025 conference.They discuss the evolution of connected vehicles — from AI, and sustainability to new telematics functions coming online — and how these factors are poised to disrupt #fleetmanagement. They also discuss the biggest challenges for fleets in the year ahead. ⏱ Topics include: ·  Chris asks if AI is still the “elephant in the room” after being the hottest trend in 2024.  ·  The group weighs in on fleets’ biggest challenges in the year ahead. ·  Chris asks if they’ve seen fleets’ electrification or sustainability goals have changed in the last year. ·  The group shares the new system functionalities comingonline and the new and unexpected use cases driving fleet safety and efficiencies.·  Chris asks what the biggest shift we’ll be talking about in five years.  Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

The State of the Fleet Industry Spotlight video series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the state of the fleet market and engages with leaders in fleet on what’s driving the market today. Chris Brown connects with Bill Pugh, Smart Cities expert, software as a service (SaaS) entrepreneur, and founder of Smart Connections Consulting.When Bill Pugh steps into the office of a new client in a hoodie and ball cap to talk SaaS solutions and data intelligence for smart cities, the person across the desk is often looking past him for someone else. With today’s entrenched stereotypes, can you blame them?Which brings up the crux of the matter — how do persons of color be their authentic selves and succeed in their careers and the current business world? Bill shares his story to show the possibilities and how Black History Month manifests in living color today.1. Bill shares his “origin story.”2. He reveals how he navigates situations when people don’t expect him to be the “expert in the room.”3. Bill shares how he overcame his biggest challenge.4. How does one balance being your authentic self with the expectations of the corporate, tech, and business worlds? Bill tells Chris how he manages to be true to himself?5. Bill remembers how he broke into tech and SaaS to fields that aren’t traditionally diverse.6. Bill finishes with advice on how young Black professionals and people of color can build a career in SaaS and tech.#BlackHistoryMonth #SoftwareasaService #inspiration📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.do?omedasite=BOB6226_autogroup&PK=YouTubeDescription🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com

In this Fleet Momentum episode, Charles Kriete, CEO of GPS Trackit, connects with Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet, to discuss how smaller fleets can reap greater efficiencies with #AI tools in conjunction with telematics.  #AI #generativeAI #smallfleets #telematics 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.do?omedasite=BOB6226_autogroup&PK=YouTubeDescription 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/automotive-fleet-magazine/ Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook ➡ https://www.facebook.com/AutomotiveFleet Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter ➡ https://twitter.com/AutomotiveFleet

Are you experiencing unexpected slowdowns in the buildout of your EV infrastructure? You're not alone. In this Fleet Momentum episode, ABM Industries' Tom Berton connects with Chris Brown, associate publisher at Automotive Fleet, to discuss solutions. Berton shares tips on how fleets can expedite the first steps to getting their infrastructure plan off the ground. He then discusses a crucial component after chargers are in place - effectively maintaining those EV chargers for maximum uptime and to keep your fleet vehicles deployed. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to spotlight key industry leaders, trends, and products in fleet management. This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with ABM. 🤝 https://www.abm.com/ 🤝 Topics Utility outreach - first steps and ongoing management Ways to mitigate EV demand charges Balancing electric vehicle arrival with infrastructure buildout #evcharging #electricvehicles #charginginfrastructure 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.do?omedasite=BOB6226_autogroup&PK=YouTubeDescription 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/automotive-fleet-magazine/ Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook ➡ https://www.facebook.com/AutomotiveFleet Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter ➡ https://twitter.com/AutomotiveFleet

While vehicle inventory levels are hitting pre-pandemic highs, fleets are facing accelerating depreciation on vehicles bought during the supply crunch. Meanwhile, interest rates remain high. In this episode of Fleet Momentum, Chris Brown, associate publisher at Bobit, connects with Brad Jacobs, vice president of strategic solutions for Merchants Fleet, to find ways fleets can address these challenges. They also discuss other important factors that will impact fleet budgets this year. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Merchants Fleet. 🤝 ⏱ Topics How can fleets mitigate interest rate expense? What strategies can fleets employ to alleviate residual value erosion? In today’s environment, how can fleets remarket vehicles smarter to maximize returns? What do you see as the biggest issues that fleets struggle to manage? #interest_rates, #residual_values, #fleet_leasing, #fleet_remarketing 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet ⁠⁠newsletter⁠⁠ 🚗 Visit ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Like Automotive Fleet on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Follow Automotive Fleet on ⁠⁠Twitter

AI is finally moving from a buzzword to solutions providing real value to fleets. But how? In this Fleet Momentum episode, Chris Brown, Bobit associate publisher, discusses with AJ Trivedi, CEO and founder of Ridecell, the AI and automation tools that are coming online to automate vehicle lifecycle management and maximize asset revenues. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Ridecell 🤝 ⏱ Topics & Timestamps What are the top trends and challenges that you're hearing from your fleet customers? How has the business of fleet changed over the past 10 years? How do we take AI and automation from buzzwords into actual products and services that will make a difference for fleets? How can AI-driven automation help manage electric vehicle lifecycles? How are OEMs changing to adapt to the new market realities? What does Ridecell offer to fleets to change their fundamental business approach and economics? ⁠#AI⁠ ⁠#artificial intelligence⁠ ⁠#Ridecell 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet ⁠newsletter⁠ 🚗 Visit ⁠Automotive Fleet⁠ for more fleet industry content 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Like Automotive Fleet on ⁠Facebook⁠ Follow Automotive Fleet on ⁠Twitter

In this Fleet Momentum episode, Chris Brown, Bobit’s associate publisher, discusses key trends in repair management, including cycle times, parts supply, and the labor market with Richard Jacko and Stuart Braun of Fleet Response. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Fleet Response 🤝 ⏱ Topics & Timestamps 0:00 Introduction 1:04 Market Outlook for 2024 2:43 Reducing Cycle Time 3:50 Managing Total Loss 5:01 Labor Market 7:25 Part Supplies 8:37 Fallout from UAW Strike #Fleetmanagement #FleetResponse #supplychain 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter

The State of the Fleet Industry Spotlight video series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the state of the fleet market and engages with leaders in fleet on what’s driving the market today. In episode 145, Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet, connects with Sandor Piszar of  @gmenvolve  about his journey to his new role and how GM Envolve is set up to engage with fleet in 2024. In May of 2023, General Motors created GM Envolve, a new unit for commercial and fleet customers that creates a "one-stop" experience for vehicle sales and access to GM’s portfolio of commercial products and services across multiple divisions. Check out the discussion and what this means to the #fleet industry! #fleetmanagement ⏱ Topics Sandor Piszar's background in fleet before joining GM Envolve Piszar's outreach to fleet clients GM Envolve accessing personnel and services compare to the old GM Fleet format How fleets should adjust plans amid battery-plant and EV model delays GM Envolve's fleet forecast 📰 Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content 🎧 Check out the State of the Fleet Industry podcast! State of the Fleet Industry on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

Hello and welcome to this edition of State of the Fleet Industry Spotlight Series, sponsored by US Bank, in which we engage with leaders in fleet on what’s driving the market today. I’m Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet. In this episode, I connect with Debbie Struna, national account manager for Fleet Street Remarketing, former board member of the American Fleet Leasing Association (AFLA), and chairperson for the Women in Fleet Management mentorship task force. Debbie and I discuss how organizations can best plan for succession in the fleet manager’s role and the resources available for new entrants into the fleet community. Today's topics include: - Struna explains how she got into fleet. - She discusses how new fleet managers can benefit from association involvement and industry events. - Struna shares how to use internal meetings in the organization to create better awareness of the fleet manager’s role. - She offers the idea of creating an industrywide document with best practices for succession planning. - She discusses the succession process when she left her role as a fleet manager to take a new job. - Struna suggests leveraging the vendor community for knowledge, along with fleet publications and media. - She explains AFLA’s mentorship program. This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠U.S. Bank⁠⁠⁠⁠. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. 🚗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

The State of the Fleet Industry video series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the state of the fleet market. In Episode 142, Associate Publisher Chris Brown interviews Brian Fielkow, an executive leader, author, and speaker who has spent three decades in fleet and transportation with a direct focus on safety. Fielkow breaks down preconceived notions on fleet safety and offers a new framework on how to manage it in your organization. He is delivering the opening keynote at the 2023 Fleet Safety Conference, convening November 8-10 in Santa Clara, Calif. Today's topics include: - Safety is not a priority. - It's not an accident and it’s not minor. - Move from a blame culture to a just culture. - We don’t necessarily need more processes. - Safety is not a department. - We’re drowning in data. - Just because you are compliant does not mean you are safe. This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠U.S. Bank⁠⁠⁠. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. 🚗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

The ⁠State of the Fleet Industry⁠ video series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. In Episode 141, learn more about the top factors contributing to increasing costs in the commercial fleet market, as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. 🎙Today's topics include: While cost containment has been a top priority since the birth of the fleet industry, today, it has gained even greater urgency since fleet is more expensive than ever. When you examine fleet cost increases in their totality, the fleet industry is experiencing a simultaneous convergence of many different cost trends. The top six cost trends examined are: Higher acquisition costs and the minimal or non-existent availability of fleet incentives. Inflationary pressures on all goods and services, higher interest rates, and higher fuel prices. Ongoing sourcing constraints primarily due to restrictive OEM ordering allocation systems that preclude fleets from getting all the replacement units they need. As the average age of fleet vehicles in service increases, so does the frequency of unscheduled maintenance incidents and PM expenses as older vehicles enter new PM intervals, often requiring replacing wear items such as tires and brakes. Higher rental expenses due to unpredictable OTD and slower maintenance turnaround due to replacement parts shortages. Increase in tolls, dollar amount for parking fines, miscellaneous environmental disposal fees for tires and motor oil, and assorted property taxes on fleet assets. This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠U.S. Bank⁠⁠. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠. 🚗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠!

The State of the Fleet Industry video series, produced by Automotive Fleet, offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. In Episode 140, we have a wide-ranging discussion with Shlomo Crandus, CEO of Wheels, about the evolution and transformation of fleet management in the next five years. 🎙Today's topics include: The industry disruptions experienced over the past three years will be the catalysts for innovation and transformation in fleet management, ultimately strengthening the industry. The goal in merging the three legacy companies – Wheels, Donlen, and LeasePlan USA – is to go beyond integration with a focus on transforming the overall Wheels business. A key focus is rethinking technology by expanding the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation (RPA), augmented reality applications, and electrification. Wheels is generating one-and-a-half billion miles of EV driving data per year. In the next five years, downtime management will evolve into efficiency management, privacy protection will gain greater importance as vehicles generate increasing volumes of data, and there will be a  convergence of technologies such as V2V communication, communicating with fleet management tech, vendor tech, and client tech. This episode is sponsored by ⁠U.S. Bank⁠. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠⁠. 🚗 ⁠⁠⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠!

The 139th State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich.   🎙Today's topics include: One of the top trends impacting fleet managers is ongoing sourcing constraints to acquire replacement vehicles amplified by logistics delays throughout the entire order-to-delivery process. The average age of fleet vehicles is increasing. The limited availability of replacement vehicles has forced fleets to extend the service lives of those vehicles currently in service. This has resulted in fleet managers being forced to operate older vehicles in a high-mileage fleet environment, resulting in the inevitable uptick in unscheduled maintenance. The difficulty in sourcing replacement vehicles has caused fleet managers to use multiple OEMs or to compromise and settle for vehicles that may not be their first choice but are a secondary choice to fulfill the fleet application. This creates complexity in maintenance schedules due to the diversity in models in operation. Inflationary price pressures and higher interest rates are putting upward pressure on total fleet costs, such as fleet acquisition expenses aggravated by lower or no fleet incentives, higher repair expenses, higher labor rates, and the ongoing price increases of replacement parts. This episode is sponsored by U.S. Bank. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠. 🚗 ⁠⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠⁠! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠⁠. Like ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠⁠. Follow ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠⁠.

This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Fleet Response. 🤝 Catalytic Converter thefts have reached epidemic proportions, with thefts up 288% in just two years. In this Fleet Momentum episode, Chris Brown, Bobit associate publisher, discusses how fleets can address the issue with Richard Jacko and Lindsey Fade of Fleet Response. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. Topics discussed: Who is Fleet Response and how do they serve fleets? What is a catalytic converter and what is its main function? Is there still a backlog of orders and sourcing issues for catalytic converters? How would you guide fleets on replacement options – OE versus aftermarket? What vehicle models are thieves targeting for catalytic converter theft? What are some common-sense deterrents to help fleets prevent catalytic converter thefts? 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠⁠. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.automotive-fleet.com⁠⁠⁠ Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠. Like ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠⁠⁠. Follow ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠⁠⁠. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠!

Find out global mobility service provider Sixt has planned for future expansion as the company’s Chief Business Officer Vinzenz Pflanz sits down with Automotive Fleet Editor Mike Antich. The Global Fleet Voices video series is produced by Automotive Fleet and offers an updated look at the multifaceted, multinational fleet market.

The Fleet Meet series is co-produced by Automotive Fleet and Fleet360 to compare and contrast fleet trends occurring in both Europe and North America. The discussion is cohosted by Hans Damen, managing partner of Europe-based Fleet360, and Mike Antich, Editor of Automotive Fleet magazine, based in the U.S. and following North American fleet market trends in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico   In this episode, we examine the development of artificial intelligence (AI), its applications within fleet management, and its impact, both positive and negative.

This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Holman. 🤝 When it comes to electrification of commercial vehicles, there are a number of considerations beyond just the vehicle model — fleets must consider new strategies around spec’ing, upfits, and duty cycles. In this Fleet Momentum episode, Chris Brown, Bobit associate publisher, discusses these challenges in a real-world scenario with Gibran Lehmkuhl, head of purchasing & mobility for Schindler Elevator Corporation, and Ted Davis, senior VP and COO, manufacturing and distribution for Holman.   Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. Topics discussed: Introduction of Gibran and Ted. Gibran explains Schindler Elevator Corporation’s Net Zero commitment and the company’s fleet electrification progress to date. How is Schindler matching the job duties of the fleet with the capabilities of the EV models on the marketplace today? Gibran explains how Holman, Schindler’s fleet management partner, has helped shape the company’s EV strategy. Ted explains how Holman is working with fleet clients to fit new EV models into their duty cycles. Ted highlights the special considerations when upfitting a commercial EV versus a traditional ICE vehicle. Ted explains how Holman’s unique range of automotive services can help in the electrification process, including collaborating with OEMs and bringing new, innovative upfit solutions to market. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠⁠. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.automotive-fleet.com⁠⁠ Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠⁠. Like ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠⁠. Follow ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠⁠. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube channel⁠⁠!

The 138th  State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich.   Today's topics include: The used-vehicle market remains strong for commercial fleet remarketing out-of-service company vehicles at auction, but there are three pain points that are negatively impacting fleets The ongoing delays in shipping out-of-service fleet vehicles to auction is increasing days-to-sale, which is increasing fleet depreciation expenses. There are backlogs in de-identifying fleet vehicles, sometimes as long as three to four weeks. Fleets require that their vehicles be de-identified of all logos and signage before they can be sold at auction. These delays are increasing days-to-sale. A third pain point is the lack of consistency at auctions in writing condition reports, which are the basis of how a vehicle is graded and has a direct bearing on the ultimate sale price. Make sure you're signed up for the AF Newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠. 🚗 ⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠. Like ⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠. Follow ⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠.

Fleet Meet is an interactive dialogue with AF Editor Mike Antich and Hans Damen, managing partner for Fleet360 discussing the latest global trends in fleet management and contrasting their impact in the U.S. and the European fleet markets. Today's discussion focuses on the proliferation of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADA) in fleet vehicles. Topics include: The risk that drivers will become too reliant on the safety technology, developing a false sense of security and becoming lax in performing basic safe driving skills. The need for fleets to properly instruct drivers on ADAS functions and correct usage of the technology. While extremely important to driver safety, ADAS technology increases a vehicle’s acquisition cost,  increases maintenance and repair costs, and adds a recalibration expense to ensure the system is functioning properly. 🤝 Follow and connect with Global Fleet on social media!Connect with Global Fleet on LinkedIn.Like Global Fleet on Facebook.Follow🎧 Prefer to listeGlobal Fleet on Twitter.n? Check out our podcast!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts.Follow on Spotify. Subscribe on Google Podcasts.

The 137th State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. In this episode, we talk with Mike Butsch, VP of global business development for Primrose Alloys. Today's topics include:    In the automotive sector, demand for aluminum has softened due to component challenges in the automotive, medium-duty truck, and heavy-duty truck segments, which has created a slight relief in prices. There is a strong influx of aluminum orders from Boeing and Airbus, which will lengthen lead times for the balance of the year. Production constraints for stainless steel has lengthened lead times to 50-80 weeks for delivery. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will continue to exert upward pressure on commodity prices due a decrease in product availability since both countries were strong exporters of aluminum and steel. In addition, ongoing tariffs on Chinese steel will put upward pressure on prices. The increased expenditure of munitions in Ukraine war has decreased munitions stockpiles in major industrial countries by 10-12 years. Pressure will mount to replenish stockpiles, putting upward pressure on brass and copper used in ammunition and heavier munitions and aluminum and stainless steel used in military equipment and missiles. Anticipation that these pricing pressures will begin at the start of 2024 calendar year. Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the ⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠. 🚗 ⁠Visit Automotive Fleet⁠ for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel⁠! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠. Like ⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠. Follow ⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠.

This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with Quartix. 🤝 When fleets are choosing a telematics provider, a crucial, yet often overlooked investigation is the level and types of support to expect after signing a contract. In this Fleet Momentum episode, Fleet Group Editor Chris Brown discusses with Sean Mahar, sales director for Quartix, how fleet should approach this issue with potential telematics providers. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. Topics discussed: Background on Quartix, a telematics service provider Quartix’s U.S. market strategy How Quartix onboards new fleet clients and understands their needs What customers can expect when contacting support, particularly during the installation process The onboarding process: contract signing to installation, training, and support How customer service is handled for fleet customers working through resellers 📰 Sign up for the ⁠Automotive Fleet newsletter⁠. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ ⁠https://www.automotive-fleet.com⁠ Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with ⁠Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn⁠. Like ⁠Automotive Fleet on Facebook⁠. Follow ⁠Automotive Fleet on Twitter⁠. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the ⁠Automotive Fleet YouTube channel⁠!

The 136th State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AFEditor Mike Antich. Today's topics include: Fleet acquisition trends in the oil and energy industry – pre-COVID – during the pandemic lockdown – and post-COVID. Energy companies have been forced to buy units out-of-stock from dealers due to replacement vehicle scarcity, which is typically above invoice pricing, especially in terms of pricing, and the advent of market price adjustments that dealers are adding on top of MSRP prices. With some vehicles being kept in service for more than 200,000 miles, the impact of unscheduled maintenance and other associated costs are substantial. The oil and energy business been impacted by labor shortages; however, some innovative programs are attracting workers from other states. Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter.

In this special spotlight edition of the State of the Fleet Industry video series produced by Automotive Fleet magazine, Matt Dyer, president of Wheels, explains why Wheels was selected as the brand name for the combined legacy companies of Wheels Donlen and LeasePlan. Dyer also discusses the creation of the new company tagline and explains what will remain the same and what will change under the Wheels brand name. Timestamps 0:00 Intro 0:45 Why the brand name Wheels and process of identifying that name 4:02 Behind the tagline "Together Let's Go Far" 8:18 What is changing and what stays the same Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter.

The 135th State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. Today's topics include: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a formal investigation of a series of “phantom braking” incidents. On January 8, 2023, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Tesla, alleging that 2021 and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y were prone to stop suddenly due to the false triggering of the automatic emergency braking system. In the past four years, there have been a number of vehicles produced by various auto manufacturers recalled to correct primarily software issues with the automatic emergency braking systems for specific models. It is important for fleet managers to be aware of the possibility of phantom braking and to stay informed of the situation as new developments occur. Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter.

The 134th State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. Today's topics include: Fleet managers report increasing pressure from their management to identify areas to control fleet costs. Total fleet costs are proportional to total fleet size. Fleet costs are directly proportional to the total number of vehicles in operation, which, in turn, drives all fixed and operating costs, such as fuel, maintenance, depreciation, accident repair costs, etc. Fleets need to identify low-utilization vehicles and consider whether a driver should be shifted to a monthly allowance or cents-per-mile reimbursement program. “Vehicle hoarding” is occurring at some fleet operations because out-of-service or low-utilization vehicles are being retained “just in case” they are needed. Fleet inventory management must be an integral part of any cost containment fleet strategy. Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter.

The 133rd  State of the Fleet Industry video produced by Automotive Fleet offers insights into the state of the fleet market as presented by AF Editor Mike Antich. Today's topics include: The increase in fleet maintenance costs have been substantial, in some cases experiencing percentage increases that are double digit. Increased vehicle complexity has exerted increased maintenance costs through the increased volume of vehicle diagnostic fees, increased labor hours to identify intermittent issues, and recalibration expenses for ADAS-equipped vehicles. Increase in unscheduled repairs are more fleet vehicles are having their service lives extended due to difficulty in sourcing replacement vehicles. Part shortages are lengthening repair times for vehicles increasing vehicle and driver downtime. Inflationary pressures are increasing labor rates, parts prices, and pass-along costs from increased raw material prices used to manufacture replacement parts. Increased labor rates primarily driven by the shortage of skilled automotive technicians. Make sure you're signed up for the AF newsletter so you don't miss another State of the Fleet Industry video. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube Channel! 🤝 Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter.

This episode of Fleet Momentum is sponsored by and created in partnership with BTC Power 🤝 Just like any fleet-related equipment, EV charging infrastructure needs to be maintained. In this Fleet Momentum episode, Fleet Group Editor Chris Brown discusses with Stephen Israel, senior director of product management for BTC Power, the preventive maintenance and upkeep of charging infrastructure that organizations need to consider as they begin to fleet EVs. Fleet Momentum videos are designed to shine a spotlight on key industry leaders, trends, and products for fleet management. Topics discussed: About BTC Power and the need to monitor charging systems and take preventive and corrective actions to keep them running.  What is a maintenance plan for chargers, and what does it include? If something breaks down, what is the process to get it repaired and running again? What does the fleet management team need to do to maintain chargers internally? How to select and vet vendors for charging equipment. 📰 Sign up for the Automotive Fleet newsletter. 🚗 Visit Automotive Fleet for more fleet industry content ➡ https://www.automotive-fleet.com Follow and connect with Automotive Fleet on social media! Connect with Automotive Fleet on LinkedIn. Like Automotive Fleet on Facebook. Follow Automotive Fleet on Twitter. 🎥 You can watch these episodes on the Automotive Fleet YouTube channel!