FLEETDRIVE internal training programs and insurer-provided driver training sessions contribute to fostering a safety-conscious culture among staff .
“ I recently attend the launch of AfMA ’ s 2023 EVs in Business Fleets Report , where I noted with interest one of the key findings of the report - “ As most fleets have a high proportion of LCVs and HCVs , EVs are only going to be able to cover 41 % of vehicles in fleets ,” says Chris .
“ As a fleet heavily dependent LCVs and HCVs , the market will determine how fast and how far Programmed can go in adopting the new technology .”
“ Part of our strategy is to identify roles where an LCV is not required . We have had some early success in our New Zealand operations who have added BYD ’ s to their fleet ,” he adds .
Vehicle Maintenance : A Proactive Approach
Maintaining the fleet ’ s reliability is a structured process at Programmed . Leasing through a Fleet Management Organization ( FMO ) ensures that maintenance is managed efficiently . Overdue service notices are not only sent to vehicle custodians but are also escalated to managers , ensuring a proactive approach to maintenance .
Challenges and Solutions : Navigating the Supply Chain Maze
Like many companies , Programmed faces challenges due to global supply chain issues . A multi-layered approach , including policy relaxation and considerations for used vehicles , reflects their adaptability and commitment to meeting business needs at the lowest possible total cost .
“ The major countermeasures to the supply issues has been adapting policy guidelines surrounding vehicle make and type , including consideration to onboard used vehicles ,” according to Chris .
“ By opening up policy , even temporarily , gives fleet staff and operations more opportunities to meet the needs of the business at the lowest possible total cost , while maintaining safety standards .”
Data Analytics and Telematics : Driving Performance Improvement
IVMS isn ’ t just a safety tool ; it ’ s a source of valuable data for Programmed . Advanced analytics promise efficiency improvements , and the system ’ s success in New Zealand , where it aids in claiming road user charges ( RUC ) refunds , highlights its multifaceted impact .
Future Goals : Striving for Safer Roads
Looking ahead , Programmed aims to further reduce accidents and incidents through additional driver training initiatives , focusing on the reduction of speeding events . Internal training programs are under review in 2024 to stay abreast of industry best practices .
Sustainable Future : Reducing Environmental Footprints
Committing to alternatives to Internal Combustion Engine ( ICE ) vehicles , Programmed also plans to assess suppliers based on their ability to report and reduce environmental footprints , aligning their practices with sustainable principles .
Key Priorities : Safety , Fit for Purpose , and Efficiency
In the realm of fleet management , safety always takes precedence at Programmed , closely followed by the fit-for-purpose criterion . Assessing the Total Cost of Ownership involves not just direct costs but also factors in indirect costs like downtime and productivity , with data emerging as a vital tool for cost reporting and efficiency identification .
Adaptive Future : A Challenge in Evolution
With a substantial increase in fleet size from over 2,000 units in 2019 to currently over 3,000 units , Programmed faces the challenge of aligning their fleet management model with their ambitious growth targets . As the business scope evolves , identifying the future fleet management model becomes a key focus for the team .
Programmed ’ s journey in fleet management is a testament to their commitment to excellence , safety , and sustainability . Through innovation , education , and adaptability , they navigate the roads of progress , setting a high standard for the industry .
As they face the challenges and opportunities of an evolving landscape , Programmed ’ s fleet management promises to be a beacon of inspiration for the road ahead .
ISSUE 44 DECEMBER 2023 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU 5