Fleet Industry: Challenges and changes in 2022

2022 road

As with most years 2021 had its own challenges for the Fleet industry to face, most notably a variety of factors which had a huge impact on the whole of the automotive supply chain, creating uncertainty for the future.

Below, we outline some of the new and ongoing challenges and changes which will affect our industry in 2022.

The Covid pandemic will continue challenging the industry which can lead to further delays. Planning in advance is strongly advised in order to mitigate any supply challenges that may occur.

Keeping workplaces safe must be a priority. Having sanitation and safety policies in place and promoting good workplace hygiene practices is essential to protect your employees. Fleet managers should encourage drivers to take extra precautions such as sanitising surfaces, wearing gloves where possible and following the government restrictions and guidelines.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the costs for vehicle parts have been rising too, which can lead to higher costs for maintenance and repairs in next year’s budget.

Due to the global shortage of semiconductors, there is disruption in vehicle production which is impacting vehicle lead times. Semiconductors have become vital components in the functionality of today’s vehicles. For example, semiconductors are used for making Brake Sensors, Electronic Control Units, Safety Driving Aids, Power Steering, Phone Integration and many other areas of the vehicle where electronics have taken over from mechanical aids. The demand for semiconductors is outpacing supply, and is affecting all vehicle manufacturers. Recent reports are stating that the repercussions of some of the issues will continue to impact vehicle build, supply and deliveries well in to 2023.

The ongoing pandemic and EU Exit led to a shortage of HGV drivers, which is having an impact on the supply chain, vehicle deliveries and recruitment. The government has introduced temporarily measures to ease the pressures of recruiting more drivers, however the shortage is expected to continue in 2022.

In 2018 the UK Government announced their Road to Zero Strategy, a long-term plan to tackle rising CO2 levels in the UK by moving towards to zero-emission road transport.

As part of the process of turning the UK green, Clean Air Zones (CAZ), Ultra- Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), Zero Emissions Zone (ZEZ) are being introduced across the country to tackle emissions and congestions in cities. Find out some more information and updates about ULEZ and CAZ.

In 2022, there are more cities to introduce CAZ such as Bristol and Manchester. Keep an eye on our website for more details.

As of 29 January 2022, new regulations and changes to the Highway Code will come into force aimed to improve road safety for vulnerable road users. Read our article to find out more.

From 2022, mandatory speed limiters will be fitted to new cars. This was confirmed by the Department for Transport, after new rules have been approved by the European Commission. Although, the UK is no longer part of the EU, this ruling will be followed. Speed limiters aim to increase safety measures by promoting and encouraging drivers to not exceed the limits. Find out more information here.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the proportion of people working from home is increasing. Fleet managers who have adapted to a hybrid form of working should stay up to date with fleet technology to help monitoring operations and enhance communication with their teams and drivers. Different apps can help monitoring drivers’ behaviour, route checking and planning, vehicle checks and maintenance, which are essential for efficiency and optimisation.

The Covid pandemic has stressed the importance of new and flexible ways for business travel. There are different mobility solutions available on the market which can enable companies to provide alternative options to meet their business travel requirements. From short term rental to car pooling or ride hailing, these solutions can provide viable additions or alternatives to traditional fleet methods. Find out how KINTO Mobility Solutions can help you make business travel quick and easy for each individual member of your workforce.

For any questions, please get in touch.