UK fleet industry on the brink of AI boom, research reveals

Almost half (48%) of UK fleet managers are either already using artificial intelligence (AI) in their fleet management or are planning to within the next five years, according to new research from Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution. The global study, conducted among 1,800 fleet managers across 15 countries to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Webfleet, highlights a growing trend towards digital transformation in the sector across the UK – with 15% already using AI, a third (33%) actively planning to and 43% considering its adoption in the future. UK fleet operators still think that electric vehicles (EVs) will be more influential than AI, however.

More than a third (38%) predict EVs will have the biggest impact on fleet management in the next 5 years, with 28% citing AI and machine learning. This contrasts with global figures where most fleet managers (32%) think that AI will have the biggest impact, followed by EVs (30%). More than half (58%) believe AI will help optimise route planning and logistics, while 51% anticipate it enhancing driver safety, behaviour analysis, predictive maintenance and asset management.

The push towards 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. “The adoption of AI in fleet management is set to become much more than just a technological upgrade,” said Beverley Wise, Webfleet UKI Regional Director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions. “It will prove a strategic necessity as the world of business enters a new data-driven era. “Our study has shown that a significant number of fleets recognise the transformative benefits of AI, from cost reduction to improved safety.

As the industry sets its sights on greater efficiency and sustainability, embracing AI will be crucial for those that hope to remain competitive.” AI adoption is also seen as a key driver for enhancing environmental sustainability. According to the study, 43% of fleet managers believe AI will significantly boost fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

This aligns with broader industry goals of reducing carbon footprints and advancing eco-friendly operations. The transition to AI, however, is not without challenges. The study revealed that 59% of those concerned about AI’s impact cited the risk of data security breaches as a primary issue.

Elsewhere, the study found that 87% of respondents plan to increase their total investment in digital fleet solutions over the next five years. This will be driven by a need for greater efficiency and reduced operational costs, cited by more than half (57%) of the respondents as the most compelling reason for an uplift in tech spending. Enhancing driver and vehicle safety (47%) and gaining better visibility and control over fleet assets (41%) were also found to be key motivators.

“The move towards digital solutions, including AI, is a clear indication of where the future of fleet management is headed,” said Wise. “Fleet operators are looking for ways to optimise their operations, enhance safety and meet sustainability goals. Digital tools can offer a powerful solution, providing real-time data and insights that can lead to smarter and more efficient decision-making.”

Jan-Maarten de Vries, President Fleet Management Solutions at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, added: “Our study reaffirms the critical role that digital fleet solutions play in increasing fleet efficiency, reducing costs and enhancing driver and vehicle safety. It’s clear that investment in these technologies will only continue to grow. “Artificial Intelligence and electric vehicles are transformative technologies that will continue to enhance fleet management.

At Webfleet, we’re pioneering these technologies to ease adoption for fleets, always with a commitment to improved safety, sustainability, productivity and efficiency.” For more detailed insights, please see the full study report here. Webfleet will celebrate its 25 years of telematics innovation at IAA Transportation from 17 to 22 September in Hanover, Germany.

The company will be showcasing its new AI Assistant on the Bridgestone Fleet Care stand in Hall 12, C54 and the Webfleet stand in Hall 25, B60.

As part of Bridgestone Fleet Care, Webfleet will demonstrate how integrating its comprehensive fleet management solution with Bridgestone tyres, tyre technologies and service solutions enable smarter, more connected fleet decisions to drive sustainability, safety, efficiency and productivity.