The COVID-19 pandemic turned many industries on their heads – fleet maintenance and management included. But the world has since adapted, and as we move into some semblance of normalcy, fleet managers face an all-new set of challenges and opportunities.
Risk reduction, driver safety, productivity, and budget utilisation are your top priorities as a fleet manager. Below, we’ve listed five 4x4 fleet maintenance trends that will help you navigate changing expectations without compromising the operational efficiency of your management strategy and overall return on investment. So let’s jump right into it.
Trend #1: Longer vehicle lifespans
Almost three in four Australian businesses reported less income due to coronavirus, and the effects of this shortfall are still being felt. What’s more, new vehicles are becoming harder to get thanks to supply chain issues and the global semi-conductor shortage.
In response, many fleet managers have decided to extend the lifespan of their vehicles, resulting in increased vehicle utilisation. This shift has far-reaching consequences.
Trend #2: Increased routine and unexpected repairs and maintenance
Longer vehicle lifespans mean increased repair and maintenance costs. If your 4x4 fleet operates in harsh environments like mining or construction sites, these additional maintenance expenses could be significant. Your 4x4 fleet maintenance should also include tyre inspections and engine oil checks.
Trend #3: Changes to your business volume
The past few years have not been business as usual. Extended lockdowns and movement restrictions caused unprecedented chaos, but you survived.
Now, business activity is returning to pre-pandemic levels. For the most part, there are no rules dictating who can move where, which has opened doors to new opportunities. With this in mind, changes to your business volume should be a top consideration as you navigate your fleet management strategy.
Trend #4: Fit-for-purpose vehicles
New vehicles are more difficult to get your hands on. At the same time, second-hand 4x4s are skyrocketing in price. The result: fleet managers must get more out of what they’ve already got. That’s why fit-for-purpose vehicles are a must-know 2022 fleet maintenance trend.
Think about it this way: Would you clear an overgrown garden with a pair of scissors? Probably not. The scissors won’t do a great job, and they’ll likely get damaged in the process. Apply this same logic to your fleet.
Avoid under-speccing your 4x4s, particularly in intense, high-demand industries. Instead, invest in top-quality accessories that empower drivers to increase productivity without straining their vehicle.
Trend #5: Increased focus on employee retention
The Australian unemployment rate sits at just 4 per cent, the lowest level in over a decade. While this is excellent news for many, it also means it’s a candidate’s market. Talent is slim, and positions are plentiful, so your focus should be on retaining the team you’ve already got.
How does this tie into fleet maintenance? A top quality, fully decked-out 4x4 will make your drivers’ lives a whole lot easier. The more comfortable their job, the more likely they will stick around. So, when you invest in fleet maintenance and upgrades, see it as more than taking care of your vehicles. View it as caring for your people, and at the end of the day, people are what matter most.
Get in touch with the 4x4 fleet fit-out pros
If you need a fleet fit-out and maintenance partner you can rely on, get in touch on 1300 656 599. Our fitment centres are your one-stop shop for all the vehicle components and accessories your commercial fleet could need.
Whatever your industry demands, we have a leading-edge fitment solution to fit.
