Optimising Business Vehicle Efficiency: Minimising Running Costs

Managing a fleet, regardless of its size, presents numerous challenges that can significantly impact a company's financial health. For small fleets, limited resources can strain the ability to maintain vehicles, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. Larger fleets face the difficulty of coordinating numerous vehicles, drivers and routes. Additionally, all fleets must navigate fluctuating fuel prices, regulatory compliance, and the risk of accidents, which can lead to unexpected expenses.

 

Effective fleet management requires a balance of cost control and pre-emptive planning to mitigate financial impacts and maintain a smooth-running fleet. Here we outline some of the strategies to help you minimise your fleet costs.

 

 

Driver Behaviour

 

Poor driver behaviour can result in fines for speeding, entering unauthorised routes, and incurring parking penalties. It is essential for fleets to invest in driver training to comply with regulations whilst enhancing overall road safety for both drivers and pedestrians.  According to an analysis of government road casualty data by Brake, the road safety charity, road deaths and serious injuries caused by speeding drivers rose significantly in 2022. Among these incidents, a third of the fatalities and a fifth of the serious injuries involved someone driving for work1.

 

Proper training helps drivers understand and adhere to traffic laws, choose appropriate routes, and park responsibly, thereby reducing the risk of fines and accidents.

 

Charges can also occur if ineligible vehicles enter Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) and Clean Air Zones (CAZ). To avoid these charges, it's crucial to ensure that vehicles are either Euro 6 compliant or electric depending on local authority requirements.  These vehicles help to avoid fines whilst contributing to reducing emissions and improving air quality.

 

Is your fleet ready for the transition to EV’s?

 

 

Fuel Usage

 

Fuel management can help identify where improvements can be made to reduce fuel consumption, minimise wear and tear, and lower fleet maintenance costs.

 

One effective way to track fuel usage and mitigate rising fuel prices is for drivers to use a fuel card, which helps monitor consumption, prevent unauthorised fuel purchases, and can result in significant savings. Northgate customers are currently saving an average of 9.7p per litre on Esso fuel2.

 

Reducing idling time, minimising harsh braking, and reviewing fleet productivity are effective strategies to minimise costs. Excessive idling can contribute to engine wear. Implementing policies to reduce idling time, such as turning off engines during long waits, can help save fuel and reduce maintenance needs. Installing telematics in vehicles can significantly enhance these efforts by providing the necessary data and insights.

 

 

Vehicle Downtime

 

Drivers and vehicles off the road will negatively impact your business operations.  It’s essential to inspect vehicles often to spot potential issues early to avoid downtime. Having accident management and breakdown cover in place can help ensure quick response and repair, saving valuable time and reducing administrative burdens.

 

Vehicle inspection apps are a convenient way to log daily checks making it easier to view all your drivers’ inspections in one place. Inspections also act as a reminder to schedule regular servicing and manage tyre condition to save on tyre replacement costs.

 

Anti-theft measures are crucial for fleet management, and van customisation can significantly enhance security through the installation of advanced alarm systems and deadlocks, which act as effective theft deterrents. Our blog further explores Northgate’s van customisation service.

 

Older vehicles often require more maintenance, which can increase costs and lead to more downtime for your fleet. Having a vehicle disposal plan in place can help your business avoid wasting money and time on an ageing fleet. Alternatively, selling your older vehicles can help you re-inject cash into your business to hire newer, more reliable vehicles. Read our blog on managing fleet disposals for your business.

 

 

How Northgate can help

 

If you buy or lease your vans, servicing, and maintenance most likely won’t be included. When managing a fleet of several vehicles this task can become time-intensive and costly. Why not get in touch today to learn more about our hassle-free hire solutions and a free fleet review?

 

Northgate assists with the acquisition of your LCV fleet whilst also offering solutions to help manage fluctuation fleet costs and improve efficiency. Explore our full range of products to keep your fleet compliant and running smoothly.

 

 

 

1 Fleet industry joins brake in a national conversation about speed for road safety week 2023 https://www.brake.org.uk/how-we-help/raising-awareness/our-current-projects/news-and-blogs/fleet-industry-joins-brake-in-a-national-conversation-about-speed-for-road-safety-week-2023

2 Terms and Conditions apply. Site numbers are correct as of 01/12/2023 and include Esso, Shell and BP sites. Data is based on customers average saving of 9.7p per litre from 1st January 2023 - 31st December 2023.