Artificial Intelligence (or AI) has been one of the hottest topics in the media over the last few months—especially as it pertains to changes in how businesses will operate with the new technology. Many fleet owners and managers are wondering what AI in fleet management looks like now, and what it means for the future.
There’s no doubt you can use AI to enhance operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Let’s delve into the world of AI in fleet management, explore how AI works and its benefits, and understand how it is impacting the fleet management process.
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Understanding AI in Fleet Management
AI in fleet management refers to the use of machine learning algorithms, predictive analytics, and natural-language processing to provide automated decision-making and superior intelligence to fleet managers. The technology integrated into software platforms like GPS Trackit “learns” from the high volumes of data gathered over time and continuously applies those analytical lessons to improve performance. Today, fleet management involves many complex operations, from vehicle tracking to maintenance and dispatching. AI is driving smarter decision-making in these areas by collecting, analyzing, and presenting insightful data to help managers make informed and proactive decisions in real time.
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Benefits of AI in Fleet Management
The best AI-driven fleet management platforms leverage the technology in many ways. Effective AI allows fleet managers to predict repairs, plan maintenance schedules, and prevent most breakdowns before they occur. This helps to reduce vehicle downtime and ensures that the fleet is in perfect condition at all times. Secondly, AI enables automatic scheduling and optimization of routes, reducing fuel costs and improving the timeliness of service. AI in fleet management applications also provides real-time data on vehicle performance and driver behavior, which fleet managers can use to identify areas for improvement in driver training, routing, and fuel efficiency.
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AI-Assisted Driver Behavior
AI is also helping transform driver behavior in fleet management. Driver behavior is critical to the safety of the fleet, and AI can detect driver deviations that are predictive of potentially dangerous outcomes. This helps drivers avoid problems before they happen. AI-powered systems monitor aggressive acceleration, braking, and speeding, and can track potential driver fatigue, assist in GPS navigation, and constantly provide feedback to the driver. This way, AI in fleet management not only improves driver safety but reduces the potential for accidents and helps to minimize insurance costs. One study of AI-driven telematics systems installed in 16,000 vehicles showed an 80 percent reduction in risky driver behavior. That means drivers and vehicles are at far less risk—and incident-related expenses and downtime are significantly lower.
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Dealing with AI-generated Data
A significant challenge in fleet management is dealing with large volumes of data. This data can come from various sources, including GPS signals, in-vehicle sensors, and maintenance tracking tools. Collecting, processing, and analyzing it manually can be a daunting task. With AI, automated software systems are available to receive the data, assimilate it into easy-to-understand reports, and make recommendations based on past behavior and any other important metrics. Fleet managers have access to advanced insights and streamlined processes that reduce costs, reduce inefficiencies, and boost productivity.
What does this mean for you and your fleet? Now is the time to take advantage of AI-assisted fleet management tools to help you cover more ground with the same crew and assets you already have. To learn how leading field service companies are integrating and flourishing with AI-driven software, talk to an experienced Fleet Advisor today for a customized demo.
