Fleet Survey Highlights Cost Savings as 2010’s Top Priority

Cost containment remains the primary focus for fleet managers and corporate leaders, as revealed by GE Capital Fleet Services’ latest survey. Nearly half of respondents—48%—identified cost savings as the chief objective for C‑level executives in 2010, up from 36% in 2009.

At the 2010 NAFA Institute & Expo in Detroit, 75 fleet managers weighed in on the issues that will shape the remainder of the year. Cost savings emerged as the highest priority for 36% of participants (an increase from 28% in 2009), while 21% placed driver safety at the top of their list—doubling the 12% emphasis seen the previous year.

“As we emerge from the downturn, companies remain strategic about their fleets while staying vigilant on costs and driving overall efficiency,” said Clarence Nunn, CEO of GE Capital Fleet Services. “Modern fleet‑management tools—telematics, data analytics, and advanced reporting—enable managers to meet both financial and operational goals.”

When asked how analytics influence their operations, respondents split their focus. Thirty‑one percent noted that analytics improved fleet operational efficiency, while 32% credited data analysis with direct cost savings. Purchasing decisions and compliance were the next most cited benefits.

Consistent with last year’s findings, managers highlighted real‑time asset metrics—such as miles driven and fuel consumption—as the most critical data for fleet oversight. An additional 21% identified workforce productivity metrics, including jobs per day, travel time, and deliveries per day, as essential for maximizing fleet performance.