2023 could be a tough year for the fleet industry, according to the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP).
The AFP say that fleets will face the twin challenges of electrification and the impact of the recession. There will be more expectation on fleet managers to deliver cost savings and curb emissions, in the view of AFP chair Paul Hollick.
“Next year is going to be a tough one, no question, and there will be considerable pressure on fleet managers to produce results that help their employers make progress on their EV (electric vehicle) agenda while also controlling costs”, said Hollick. “Fuel expenditure is going to help drive this line of strategy, alongside environmental concerns.”
“Petrol and diesel prices remain stubbornly high, and the impending fuel duty increase will further concentrate minds. Even given that electricity prices could increase in the spring when the Government rethinks its price cap, electrification is going to look more attractive than ever in financial terms.”
The supply issues affecting car manufacturing will make electrification more challenging. The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) have reported that 58% of its members are resigned to longer lead times now being the norm.
“Different manufacturers are making different noises about whether production issues are likely to improve next year,” says Hollick. “But the bottom line remains that there is a massive backlog to clear before the situation has any chance of improving. Electrification can only happen at the rate of supply.”
As a not-for-profit body that trains, supports and educates the fleet industry, the AFP has reaffirmed its commitment to providing as much information as possible about its members’ experiences of electric vehicles.
