Nearly half of UK fleets ready to use AI to help manage vehicles

Nearly half of UK fleet managers plan to use artificial intelligence (AI) systems before 2030 to improve the management of their vehicles and drivers.

Webfleet, the fleet management and telematics specialist owned by parent company Bridgestone, has conducted a global study of 1,800 fleet managers in 15 countries as part of its 25th anniversary.

Around 15% of UK fleet managers are already using AI systems, a third (33%) plan to do so and 43% are considering it as an option for the future.

More than half (58%) believe AI will help optimize route planning and logistics, while 51% predict it will improve driver safety, behavior analysis, predictive maintenance and asset management.

The rise of AI comes as fleets seek to cut costs and improve efficiency, with 50% predicting its emergence will reduce operational expenses and 47% expecting it to automate administrative and compliance tasks.

Electric vehicles’ influence still outpaces AI

However, UK fleet operators still believe electric vehicles (EVs) will have more influence than AI.

More than a third (38%) predict electric vehicles will have the biggest impact on fleet management over the next five years, with 28% citing AI and machine learning.

This contrasts with global figures where most fleet managers (32%) believe AI will have the biggest impact, followed by electric vehicles (30%).

Beverley Wise, Regional Director, Webfleet UKI for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said: “The adoption of AI in fleet management is set to become much more than just a technology upgrade.

“This will prove to be a strategic necessity as the business world enters a new data-driven era.

“Our research showed that a significant number of fleets recognize the transformative benefits of AI, from cost reduction to improved safety.

“As the industry strives for greater efficiency and sustainability, the adoption of AI will be crucial for those hoping to remain competitive.”

The adoption of AI is also seen as a key driver for improving environmental sustainability.

According to the study, 43% of fleet managers believe AI will significantly improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This is in line with broader industry goals to reduce carbon footprints and promote environmentally friendly operations.

The transition to AI is not without challenges, however.

The study found that 59% of those concerned about the impact of AI cited the risk of data security breaches as a major issue.

Additionally, the study found that 87% of respondents plan to increase their total investment in digital fleet solutions over the next five years.

This shift will be driven by a need for increased efficiency and reduced operational costs, cited by more than half (57%) of respondents as the most compelling reason for increasing technology spending.

Improved driver and vehicle safety (47%) and gaining better visibility and control over fleet assets (41%) are also seen as key motivators.

“The shift towards digital solutions, including AI, is a clear indication of where the future of fleet management is heading,” Wise said.

“Fleet operators are looking for ways to optimize their operations, improve safety and meet sustainability goals.

“Digital tools can offer a powerful solution, providing real-time data and insights that can lead to smarter, more effective decision-making.”