The 2023 EROAD Fleet Day event attracted some 800 fleet management professionals to the Claudlands Events Centre on 26 July.

The annual event brings together transport industry professionals, exhibitors, and experts to discuss the latest trends and challenges in fleet management.

This year the event focused on three crucial aspects of modern fleet management: safety, efficiency and sustainability.

Key takeaways of the event included a keynote speech from Sir Graham Henry, who said successful fleet management is about people, not just about adopting advanced technologies.

“It’s about cultivating the right culture, selecting the right team members, and supporting them to perform effectively under pressure,” Henry said.

“Technology is an enabler, but a strong, connected team that embraces the fleet’s culture is essential for long-term success.”

Building collaborative partnerships with other fleets was also a focus of the event.

Downer New Zealand’s Josh Hedley  and Brian Yanko from NZ Police highlighted the immense value of fleet businesses collaborating with non-competitive partners.

“By sharing knowledge and learning from one another, fleets can uncover innovative solutions to common challenges, ultimately benefiting the entire industry.”

During the event, Kathy Schluter, GM of sales and customer experience at Keith Andrews, stressed the importance of preparing for emissions reduction now.

“With low and zero emission transport rapidly gaining momentum, fleet managers must proactively assess their fleet operations and start planning how they’ll transition to low emission vehicles,” she said.

Scania and Hyundai also shared how the EV and Hydrogen share of the heavy truck market is only heading in one direction. With three in five fleet businesses already being asked to share sustainability performance during vendor selection, early adoption of green technologies is the key to staying ahead.

The transport sector has witnessed remarkable technological advancements in recent years, from vehicle tracking and cameras, to advanced safety features, and most recently alternative fuel options. During Fleet Day 2023, more than 50 exhibitors showcased various technology-driven solutions aimed at improving safety and efficiency, reducing costs and curbing emissions.