BT's Fleet Solutions’ second Operational Fleet Insight report shows fleet managers are largely supportive of the introduction of more clean air zones to UK cities, but are concerned about investment in the UK’s electric vehicle infrastructure to support the running of alternatively-fuelled fleets.

The report, released at Fleet Solutions’ Industry Fleet Forum event at BT Tower yesterday, is available to download at www.btfleetinsight.com.

It was commissioned in partnership with the AA and presents insights and market direction on some of the most pressing issues impacting operational fleets. 

Topics covered include the economy and Brexit, technology advancement, safety, alternative-fuelling, and manager-driver relationships.

Key findings from the 514 survey respondents reveal they are already seeing the effect of the 2016 EU Referendum, mainly due to rising fuel costs and the exchange rate.

This, and other concerns in the industry are voiced, including views on the Government’s Clean Air Zone Framework from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Department for Transport (DfT). 

The report’s findings and conclusions include:

• 66% of respondents support the introduction of more clean air zones, 
• 63% of fleets believe they will be using alternative fuels in five years’ time, 
• 47% of fleet managers feel government organisations should be lobbying for greater investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, and
• 66% of respondents feel they have been impacted by Brexit and 68% are expecting impact over the next 12 months. 

As part of the evidence base for the report, BT and The AA engaged market research consultancy Populus to survey operational fleet managers and drivers to gain a full range of insights and views.

The results were gathered from 514 survey respondents, and 24 in-depth interviews.

Henry Brace, BT’s Fleet Solutions managing director, said: “Insight is the vital component of any fleet manager’s arsenal and helps them future-proof their fleets.

"Our report provides useful insight into the data gathered, working with the fleet industry as one to advance our sector. We’ve aimed to not only uncover the issues impacting operational fleets, but also to present the findings in a way that allows the reader to apply the learnings in their day to day role and equip their fleets for the challenges ahead.”

Edmund King, The AA president, said: “Following the success of last year’s inaugural report, The AA is proud to again work with our friends at BT Fleet to produce the 2017/18 Operational Fleet report.

"With approximately 80% of all freight transported by road in the UK and with fleet service vehicles keeping our country moving, operational fleets are the driving force behind the British economy.

"This report provides a detailed assessment of the industry providing useful insight for operational fleet managers and drivers.”

At the Industry Fleet Forum event, at BT Tower, is Brace also announced a name change from BT Fleet to Fleet Solutions.

The move is designed to reflect the company’s customer-focused approach, supporting companies to increase efficiency and reduce downtime.

It also mirrors its aim to work as one with BT Group and its business units, producing scaled benefits for customers by being part of a wider organisation.