Driving Success: A Fleet Advantage Podcast

In this episodeof Driving Success, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, SVP of Fleet Operations at Fleet Advantage, discuss the confirmed EPA 2027 NOx regulations and why the truck pre-buy is officially back. With the EPA holding firm on the 35 mg standard, fleets face shrinking 2026 build availability, rising OEM costs, and increased allocation risk. Brian explains the financial implications, why private fleets are moving early, and the critical steps organizations must take now to control costs and secure equipment ahead of 2027.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:52 The Pre-Buy Coming Back02:33 Underestimating Build Slots and Pricing03:30 Financial Implications 04:15 Private Fleets Acting Now05:55 Important Actions for Fleets to Make🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival sits down with Matt de Aguiar, Chief Operating Officer; Brian Antonellis, SVP, Fleet Operations; and Jackie Dusseau, VP, Data Analytics & Corporate Development, to discuss the launch of OffLease Reimagined, Fleet Advantage’s innovative platform for modernizing truck lease surrenders. The team explores how the software streamlines workflows, leverages real-time data and automation, and delivers measurable savings and operational efficiencies. Tune in to hear how OffLease Reimagined is driving transformation in fleet management and equipment finance, and learn about the award-winning solutions helping fleets save time, reduce costs, and gain transparency across the lease lifecycle.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Fleet Advantage Team02:14 Introduction to OffLease ReImagined03:37 Collaboration in Launching OffLease Reimagined04:48 Operational Gaps in the Lease Surrender Process05:54 Understanding Customer Needs and Data Integration07:20 Leveraging Data for Actionable Insights09:02 Success and Industry Impacts12:11 Future of OffLease Reimagined🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Matt de Aguiar ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdeaguiar/ Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Jackie Dusseau ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-dusseau-clfp-88667059/ Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Matt Wiedmeyer, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Maintenance, discuss CVSA’s Brake Safety Week 2025 with a special focus on drums and rotors. They explore why brake-related violations continue to top the charts for out-of-service orders and what fleets can do to better prepare. This episode delivers timely insights that help drivers and fleet operators stay compliant, avoid costly violations, and prioritize safety on the road.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background01:42 Brake Safety Week Refresh and Goals02:24 Common Brake Related Violations02:56 Tips for Drivers' Pre and Post-Trip Inspections04:37 CVSA’s 2024 Unannounced Safety Inspection06:11 New Statistics for Brake Safety Week08:49 Conclusion of Summer of Safety Series🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Matt Wiedmeyer ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewwiedmeyerctp/Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Nathan Rhoads, CTP, Director of Fleet Services at Fleet Advantage, break down CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025. They discuss current enforcement priorities, the importance of proactive driver behavior, and how the latest TRUST Index data reveals areas for improvement. Whether you're managing a fleet or out on the road, this episode delivers practical insights to help keep everyone safer.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Nathan Rhoads & Operation Safe Driver Week02:40 Key Statistics from Last Year's Campaign03:35 Focus Areas for This Year's Campaign04:56 Educating Drivers for Long-Term Safety06:44 New Insights for This Year07:43 Conclusion🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Nathan Rhoads ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-rhoads-232915134/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Wesley Hall, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Off Lease at Fleet Advantage, return for the second annual Summer of Safety series to explore the continued importance of National Tire Safety Week. Together, they highlight how the right tire selection, consistent air pressure management, and proper inspection tools can significantly impact fleet safety, performance, and cost efficiency. With updated insights for 2025, this episode offers practical guidance to help fleets reduce downtime, avoid road failures, and protect their drivers.Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Background on Wes Hall01:38 Refresher on National Tire Safety Week02:12 Understanding Tire Categories and Their Impact03:10 The Importance of Tire Pressure Management04:44 Essential Tools for Tire Inspections06:17 Current Trends and Statistics in Tire Safety🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Wes Hall ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-hall-ctp-323367a/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the looming impact of newly imposed tariffs, which began on April 2, 2025. With these tariffs initially affecting automakers and potentially extending to heavy-duty trucks, the conversation emphasizes the urgency for organizations with transportation fleets to reassess their procurement strategies and take swift action to mitigate cost increases. Brian shares valuable insights into the timelines for tariff-driven cost increases from equipment manufacturers, along with strategies for effectively navigating these changes.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:45 Current Status of the Tariffs02:06 What Is the Impact for Fleets & Time Frames03:10 Strategizing for the Future04:06 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the recent shakeup in the transportation industry as CARB rescinds its waiver request for the Advanced Clean Fleet (ACF) regulation. They break down the implications of this shift and what it means for companies with transportation fleets. Tune in as they explore strategies for adapting to regulatory changes, the importance of a five-year plan, and how fleet managers can balance sustainability goals with immediate cost pressures.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:38 What Happened with the CARB Mandate?03:11 Current Status and Implications for Fleets04:27 Strategizing for the Future05:35 Balancing Sustainability and Cost07:05 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In Part 2 of our Full-Service Lease vs. Unbundled Lease series, Tracy Derival is joined by Paul Gildenhorn (Sr. Director, National Sales), Brian Welke (Sr. National Account Executive), and Jeff Werstak (Director, Business Development) from FleetNet America by Cox Automotive. They discuss the maintenance options available when unbundling a lease and share expert insights on optimizing fleet maintenance with the flexibility and benefits of a nationwide maintenance network.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to FleetNet America and Its Team02:02 Key Components of FleetNet America's Maintenance Solutions04:23 Benefits of Fleet Maintenance In An Unbundled Lease06:36 Nationwide Network of Service Providers09:48 Addressing Rising Costs in Fleet Maintenance12:36 Real-World Benefits of FleetNet America's Solutions16:43 Future Trends in Fleet Maintenance🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Paul Gildenhorn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-g-6266026/Brian Welke ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-welke-0b031a20/Jeff Werstak ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-werstak-1b7bb78/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the upcoming IAA 2024 Transportation Show. They highlight the significance of participating in the event, discuss the sessions Brian is most excited about, and cover timely topics like EV charging infrastructure and sustainable transport. They also touch on Europe’s lead in heavy-duty truck transportation and logistics and tease an exciting new offering from Fleet Advantage that will be unveiled at IAA.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Brian's Background01:54 What Is IAA & Why Is It Important02:41 IAA Transportation Sessions Shows Interest In Alternative Fuels03:46 Importance of Discussing Alternative Fuels Now05:20 Europe vs US: The Race in Heavy-Duty Truck Transportation07:07 Exciting Offering Unveiled at IAA: Making the Transition Easier08:02 Stay Tuned for Live Updates During IAA🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Matt Wiedmeyer, CTP, Director of Fleet Services at Fleet Advantage, delve into CVSA's Brake Safety Week. They highlight key inspection violations, the importance of thorough brake checks, and the role of maintenance teams in ensuring compliance. They stress the importance of brake safety for this week and beyond, emphasizing its impact on both drivers and corporate transportation fleets.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:34 Overview of Brake Safety Week and Goals03:10 Common Brake Related Violations03:52 Tips for Drivers' Pre and Post-Trip Inspections05:00 Tips for Maintenance Departments06:12 Findings from a Recent Brake Safety Check07:33 Tips for Passing Vehicle Inspections and Maintaining Brake Performance08:55 Wrapping Up the Summer of Safety Series🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Matt Wiedmeyer ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewwiedmeyerctp/Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Nathan Rhoads, Director of Fleet Services at Fleet Advantage, delve into CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week. They shed light on the primary objectives of this year’s campaign, focusing on speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt compliance. They emphasize the importance of building a safety-centric culture within private fleets and educating drivers on safe driving habits not only during this week but also throughout the year and beyond.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Nathan's Background01:45 What Is CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week?02:44 What Were The Key Findings From 2023?03:59 Any New Focus Areas for 2024?04:42 Building a Safety-Centric Culture05:30 How Should Private Fleets and Drivers Comply From This Week and Beyond?06:30 Conclusion• Connect with Nathan Rhoads on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-rhoads-232915134/• Connect with Tracy Derival on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Wesley Hall, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Off Lease at Fleet Advantage, delve into the significance of National Tire Safety Week for truck and driver safety. They emphasize the critical role of selecting the right tires for fleet safety and performance, stressing the importance of maintaining proper tire air pressure for both safety and operational efficiency, the necessity of regular tire inspections and many more!Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background01:00 Wesley Hall's Role & Experience in the Transportation Industry01:42 What Is National Tire Safety Week?02:20 Choosing the Right Tires03:38 Importance of Proper Tire Air Pressure04:45 Tools for Ensuring Safety and Compliance06:03 Regular Tire Inspections06:58 Conclusion• Connect with Wes Hall on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-hall-ctp-323367a/• Connect with Tracy Derival on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Holland, President and CEO of Fleet Advantage, discuss the state of the transportation industry at the midpoint of 2024. They touch on the economic landscape of the transportation industry, the role of data and analytics in fleet management decisions, the focus on emissions reduction and alternative fuel technologies, and conclude with the implications of upcoming legislative mandates and the importance of sustainability in fleet management.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background01:25 Outlook On The Heavy-Duty Transportation Industry & Fleet Asset Management02:12 Economic Indicators Fleets Should Be Aware of 202403:02 The Role of Data and Technology in Fleet Management04:05 Alternative Fuel Technologies and Emissions Reduction05:07 The Impact of Legislative Mandates on Fleet Procurement Plans05:58 Focusing on Sustainability and Long-Term Strategy06:43 ConclusionConnect with Brian Holland on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/briankholland/Connect with Tracy Derival on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Hadley Benton, the Executive Vice President of Business Development at Fleet Advantage, discuss the major differences between a Full-Service Lease (FSL) and an Unbundled Lease (UBL) for corporate transportation fleets. The key themes covered include the definition of FSL and UBL contracts, the importance of flexibility in lease structures, the financial impact of FSL on a company's bottom line, the impact on maintenance and repair, and best practices for transitioning between lease agreements.00:00 Introduction to Fleet Advantage01:11 Hadley’s Background in the Transportation Industry02:17 What Is An FSL Contract?02:35 What Are The Principle Differences Between An FSL and UBL?03:12 Importance of Flexibility in Fleet Lease Structure04:08 Financial Impact of FSL vs Unbundled Lease05:04 Managing Maintenance and Repair Costs06:22 Transitioning from FSL to Unbundled Lease07:01 Best Practices on M&R While Transitioning From An FSL to a UBL08:37 Introduction To Part Two On Alternative Fleet Maintenance SolutionsConnect with Hadley Benton on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/hadleybenton/Connect with Tracy Derival on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

In this episode of Driving Success, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis discuss the California Air Resource Board (CARB) mandates and their impact on the transportation industry. They explore the relationship between CARB and the pre-buy strategy, as well as the financial implications of the mandate. They also provide insights on how transportation fleets can prepare for the upcoming changes and highlight the resources available to assist them. Additionally, they discuss the transition to electrification and the challenges involved in implementing zero emissions vehicles.00:00 Introduction and Overview of Fleet Advantage01:20 Brian Antonellis' Background in the Transportation Industry02:10 Understanding CARB and Emissions Regulations03:05 The Relationship Between CARB and Pre-Buy03:48 Financial Impact of CARB Mandate05:48 Preparing for the CARB Mandate06:33 Resources and Support for Navigating the CARB Mandate07:17 Transitioning to ElectrificationConnect with Brian Antonellis on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-antonellis-35713420/Connect with Tracy Derival on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/