Automotive Fleet - New Fleets Useful Articles

Personal Use Charges Increase in 2008

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 13:29:29 PST

According to AF’s annual survey, almost 20 percent of fleets now charge more than $150 per month for personal use of company-provided vehicles. Industry-wide, the overall average personal use charge is $103.

Ford 2009-MY Fleet Preview

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:35:23 PST

Ford held its 2009 Model-Year Fleet Preview at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, June 16-18. The preview was attended by more than 800 fleet customers and suppliers, including participants from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Ford’s export and growth markets.

Toyota Financial Solutions Launches Fleet Solutions

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:29:50 PST

With $80 billion in managed assets, Toyota Financial Services (TFS) is the third-largest captive finance company in the U.S., offering an extensive line of financing plans and vehicle protection products to customers and authorized dealers.

Can Neighborhood Electric Vehicles Work for Your Fleet?

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:05:03 PST

With environmental benefits, low operating costs, and application flexibility, NEVs may offer a viable alternative for your fleet. Yet there is much to consider before taking the leap to fully battery-powered vehicles.

Medium-Duty Chassis & Suspension Fundamentals

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:00:00 PST

WIth the myriad options available when spec'ing medium-duty truck chassis and suspensions, stakes are high, leaving fleet managers little room for error.

What's New in Medium-Duty Trucks for 2009-MY

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:51:31 PST

Medium-duty trucks are the heart of many fleet operations. Several manufacturers share what’s new for the 2009 model-year, with lists of vocational opportunities.

Pros & Cons of Extending Replacement Policy

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:14:27 PST

It has been “common wisdom” to replace fleet vehicles in relatively short cycles. Rising costs, however, have led fleet managers to consider lengthening replacement criteria. There are pros and cons to the practice.

GM's Sounding Board Serves as Conduit to Fleet Industry

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:27:56 PST

The group helps improve performance levels of both GM and its commercial fleet customers. In addition, General Motors’ Fleet and Commercial Sounding Board includes representation from Canada and soon will expand to Mexico.

Discover New Technologies to Green Your Truck Fleet

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:35:54 PST

Work Truck is one of three Bobit Business Media publications sponsoring the Green Fleet Conference 2008. The new event offers a forum for truck fleets to learn and discuss green technologies.

Industry Groups Address Expanding Biodiesel Use

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:49:57 PST

Government mandates to increase renewable fuels production have prompted a growing use of biodiesel. Industry groups are setting standards for quality and monitoring the fuel’s production, transport, and storage.

Quality, Design & Green for New Models

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:58:43 PST

For its 2009 models, Ford will unveil more industry-first technologies and advancements than ever before. From an all-new design for the 2009 Ford F-150 to the new Flex and MKS, Ford continues to revolutionize its offerings.

AF Recognizes Fleet Women of Influence

Thu, 15 May 2008 14:10:03 PST

Women who manage U.S. commercial and public sector fleets have advanced the industry with innovations, best practices, and a continuous quest for improvement. AF salutes their distinguished contributions — past and present.

Baker Hughes Taps Driver Input to Improve Services

Thu, 15 May 2008 13:52:09 PST

Divisional advisory boards and focus groups help the company’s strategic sourcing team meet its divisions’ needs. Results include higher driver ratings, increased productivity, and enhanced internal and supplier processes.

Keeping Fleet in the Family

Thu, 15 May 2008 11:38:38 PST

In an industry heavily influenced by personal relationships and trust, it is no wonder that fleet — which offers an endless buffet of employment opportunities — is home to so many families.

In Their Own Words: Fleet Managers Speak (Truthfully)

Wed, 14 May 2008 11:52:31 PST

With anonymity guaranteed, fleet managers voiced their honest thoughts and concerns on senior management’s regard and respect for the fleet management function and the fleet manager position itself.

Propane: An Economic & Environmental Fuel Choice

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:08:14 PST

Propane, one of the nation’s most versatile sources of energy, supplies about 4 percent of total domestic energy needs. Opportunities exist to expand its use as a cost-effective strategy to limit vehicle emissions.

Productivity Not a Problem with New Ford Work Solutions

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 16:09:18 PST

Ford worked with customers and class-leading partners to develop functional solutions for increased productivity and efficient time management.

How to Defuse Driver Resistance to GPS

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 12:59:53 PST

A GPS system can be a useful fleet management tool. However, the system must be properly introduced to employees to promote their acceptance and cooperation.

Telematics Solutions Help Fleets Improve Productivity & Trim Costs

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 18:48:39 PST

Mobile resource management (MRM) systems allow fleet managers to track fuel transactions, streamline routing, monitor driver behavior, automate maintenance alerts, and implement other efficiency-producing functions.

The NTEA Revs Up for The Work Truck Show 2008

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 18:32:25 PST

The National Truck Equipment Association’s annual convention is a ‘one-stop’ marketplace for industry professionals seeking all aspects of work truck equipment, solutions, and training.

GM Moves to Fill the Cutaway Gap

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 17:15:59 PST

A new 14,200-lb. GVWR G-Van diesel cutaway chassis expands the platform’s capabilities in the commercial market. Potential uses include commercial trucks, ambulances, and shuttle buses.

RFID Technology Can Help Manage Fleet Loads

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:50:51 PST

Adding tiny RFID tags to incoming and outgoing cargo in trucks can help the driver and the distribution office keep track of items.

Onstar Enhances Fleet Driver Safety & Productivity

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:21:38 PST

Available on 27 GM truck, van, and SUV models, OnStar helps keep fleet drivers on the road and heading in the right direction. In the event of an accident, help is summoned automatically or is just one button-press away.

Does Telematics Provide a Good ROI?

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:57:41 PST

Telematics is currently a hot button with fleets. Will the return be worth the initial investment? Many fleets are finding that when used properly, telematics can save a fleet money and pay for itself.

Forecast of Truck Fleet Management Trends: 2008-2010

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:24:33 PST

The No. 1 factor is the ongoing high cost of fuel, in particular diesel, which is driving management demands to lower operating costs. Another huge factor that will influence fleets will be the 2010 diesel emission standards.

Proven Strategies to Reduce Fleet Costs

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:34:07 PST

It’s easy to forget the tried-and-true strategies that keep costs down. Focusing on the basics saves money and leads to fleet management success.

Executive Vehicles vs. Driver Reimbursement

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:04:35 PST

The competition for talented and experienced executives can be brutal, but a compensation package that includes a company vehicle can provide an edge. Some companies prefer reimbursement. Here are the pros and cons.

Intangibles Make the Difference in Successful Subrogation

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:23:05 PST

Successful auto claim collectors are well prepared, know the laws and regulations in their states, and are ready to challenge insurers whose practices are meant to intimidate.

How to Determine the Correct Depreciation Reserve

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:04:25 PST

Depreciation turns fleet vehicles into “melting” assets. The open-end TRAC lease is an excellent tool to manage depreciation expense; however, maximizing its effectiveness requires establishing the proper depreciation reserve.

Analyzing RFPs: Methodology for Best Practices

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 13:39:12 PST

The RFP process can get bogged down with unneeded detail when procuring fleet programs and services. Reviewing and analyzing responses become cumbersome. Here are some ideas to simplify the process.

Are Your Surplused Vehicles Safe from Theft?

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:53:07 PST

In addition to common-sense security measures, fleet managers must consider vehicle value, crime risk, and the cost and type of anti-theft systems in thwarting would-be thieves.

Overtime: A Cost-Effective Solution to Improve In-House Productivity

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 11:51:56 PST

If heavy workloads exceed a typical eight-hour workday, offer your employees overtime rather than hire a new person. It may be more cost-effective.

Fueling Florida's Fiscal Fitness

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:00:44 PST

How a fuel card program helped the State of Florida balance its budget — and prepare for the future.

Strategic Actions: Simultaneous Fleet Reduction and Greening

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:15:21 PST

More fuel-efficient methods can be used to power fleet vehicles. However, fleet reductions can be a confusing process, and requires careful thought and calculation.

Why Reimbursement Doesn't Work

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 14:28:38 PST

Reimbursement doesn’t work from an HR or safety & liability perspective, is counter-productive to corporate ‘green’ initiatives, can negatively impact the company image, and FAVR reimbursement programs may not be SOX-compliant.

Adrian Steel Implements Quality Initiative

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:32:09 PST

With its recent TS/ISO certification, Adrian Steel has taken its ongoing mission to deliver quality products to a new level. The upfitting company continues to find the best cargo management solutions for its customers.

2007 Top 100 Trucks Listing

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:42:43 PST

The top truck fleets from 2007.

There's No Excuse for Bad Driving

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:35:12 PST

Nearly every driver has a reason to justify speeding, talking on a cell phone while at the wheel, or following too closely. A safe driving training expert rebuffs those excuses.

Analyzing Depreciation Trends: 2007 vs. 2006

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:16:42 PST

Depreciation continues to be the largest fleet expense; however, fuel, as a percent of total fleet cost is growing (rapidly). Fuel expense is influencing vehicle acquisition strategies, with a direct bearing on future depreciation.

Chevrolet Sweeps 2008 Fleet Car & Truck of the Year

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:09:58 PST

The Impala and Silverado capture this year’s honors in a competition that also marks a ‘three-peat’ award for the Impala. Fleet professionals voted their selection online from a field of 64 cars and 37 light-duty trucks.

DOT Mandates May Apply When Using Trailers

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:16:58 PST

Extra weight from trailer add-ons may push otherwise underweight vehicles over the DOT-exempt weight limit.

A Long and Useful Life

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 14:33:55 PST

Through careful use and regular PM maintenance, Los Angeles County Fire Station 92 has gotten 337,000 miles of service out of Squad Truck 592, which was still running strong when the F-350 crew cab was retired.

How to Select a Fuel Management Provider

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:03:09 PST

Choosing the right fuel management provider can save you valuable time and money.

Avoid Identity Theft Risk During New-Vehicle

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 11:08:42 PST

When your driver picks up a new vehicle, how does the delivering dealer know your employee is who they say they are? Typically, the employee receives paperwork from the leasing company (acknowledgement of order), which they bring to the dealership. While at the dealership, the driver is often required to show a driver’s license with photo to verify his or her identity. In some cases, the dealership makes a copy of the driver’s license. This has been done routinely in our industry for many years.

Forecasting the Future of the Closed-End Lease

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 14:23:52 PST

Not only will the market share for the closed-end lease grow, but so will its impact on fleet. A desire for predictable budgeted payments and fewer surprises at resale has prompted a renewed interest in the closed-end lease.

Navigating the Lease vs. Buy Maze

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 10:38:10 PST

Deciding whether to lease or own company-provided vehicles can seem a daunting task. Knowing the basic concepts helps.

How to Cost-Effectively Support Street Mainte

Thu, 22 Sep 2005 18:12:43 PST

To be successful, fleet management must develop a partnership with the operating departments, their operators, and vendors. Fleet is the pivotal player in these relationships as it manages equipment from cradle to grave

Outsourcing for Positive Results

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 17:43:37 PST

With a disciplined approach and careful planning and implementation, outsourcing non-core functions can provide a positive impact on the entire fleet operation.

Two Musts in Fleet Management:Training and Ce

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 17:43:37 PST

Fleets profit from training by using technology to increase productivity and efficiency, which in turn, lowers costs. Training employees to use new technology effectively is as important as the investment in the technology itself.

Accurate Mileage:The Lifeblood of Good Fleet

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 17:43:37 PST

Nearly every function of fleet vehicle management requires a decision dependent upon accurate odometer reporting. Utah’s Division of Fleet Operations employs a proactive approach to ensure correct mileage data.

Developing a Fleet Business Plan to Drive Org

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 17:43:37 PST

A fleet business plan forces change when the company has 2,100 vehicles providing electric power to nearly 800,000 customers and delivers nearly 1 million acre-feet of water to a service area in central Arizona.

How To Negotiate A Fleet Management Agreement

Thu, 22 Sep 2005 18:12:43 PST

With the extensive menu of leasing and fleet management services available, fleet management agreements can be confusing. It is important to understand what to look for and what negotiable issues are.