Fleet management software: Emerging technologies are changing the game

The landscape of fleet management is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by a wave of emerging technologies that are reshaping how businesses operate. From the intricate connectivity of the Internet of Things (IoT) and telematics to the lightning-fast speeds of 5G and the critical importance of robust cybersecurity, fleet managers are navigating a complex yet exciting era. This article delves into these pivotal technologies, exploring how they are revolutionizing fleet operations and, crucially, how WEX is positioned to support your fleet’s journey through this dynamic evolution, particularly as you transition to mixed-energy and electric vehicle fleets.

Let’s explore technology impacting the industry today and how WEX can support your fleet.

Reimagining fleet operations with the latest fleet management solutions

In today’s industries, keeping up with emerging trends and technologies is essential for success. As industries embrace new innovations such as autonomous vehicles, fleet managers are taking the chance to transform their operations, aiming for greater efficiency and safety.

Internet of Things (IoT) and GPS fleet tracking 

The integration of IoT and telematics is revolutionary for fleet management. Through these technologies, fleet managers gain greater visibility and control over their operations, using real-time monitoring and advanced analytics to optimize fleet performance. This era of transformation empowers decision-makers with practical insights, helping them make informed choices to streamline operations, cut costs, and boost productivity.

5G high-speed connection and vehicle management

The rise of 5G technology is further driving this change, bringing faster connectivity and data exchange. With lightning-fast speeds and minimal delays, 5G is speeding up communication and navigation within fleet operations. This high-speed connection enables fast communication between vehicles, infrastructure, and central command centers, improving situational awareness and enabling quick, data-driven decision-making.

Cybersecurity when engaging with emerging technologies

However, along with these exciting advancements come new challenges, especially in cybersecurity. As fleets become more interconnected and reliant on digital systems, they become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Fleet managers should stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their smart fleets from potential cyberattacks. This involves staying updated on the latest cybersecurity technologies and best practices, implementing strong security measures, and fostering a culture of cyber resilience within your organization.

Ultimately, success lies in embracing innovation while managing associated risks. By keeping up with emerging technologies, leveraging data-driven insights, and prioritizing cybersecurity, fleet managers can navigate the complexities of new-age solutions and unlock new opportunities for growth and advancement.

Supporting fleet management with your EV and mixed-energy fleet transition

As the world moves from internal combustion engines (ICE) to a mix of ICE vehicles and EVs, WEX is building innovative solutions to keep your business moving.

With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, WEX is revolutionizing the way fleets operate by offering comprehensive solutions tailored to your business needs.

EMIT by Sawatch, a WEX Company

When considering adopting a fully electric vehicle fleet or a combination of EVs and traditional vehicles, the transition can sometimes feel daunting. Sawatch Labs, a WEX company, offers its cutting-edge fleet electrification analytics software to make the process easier. Here’s what the software can do:

• EV suitability assessment: Identify which vehicles in your fleet are best suited for electrification based on real-world driving patterns.
• Cost modeling: Understand potential savings and total cost of ownership (TCO) for EVs when compared to traditional vehicles.
• Infrastructure planning: Get clear recommendations for charging station locations and power requirements.
• Emissions reporting: Track and report greenhouse gas reductions to showcase progress toward sustainability.

When it comes to emissions reporting, Sawatch’s EMIT tool allows you to:

• Accurately track and measure your emissions
  • This tool removes the guesswork. You can be confident that your vehicle emissions are being accurately tracked and reported across every vehicle in your fleet.
• Effortlessly dig into the data with easy reporting
  • All reporting is brought to fleet managers in an easy-to-use, time-saving online dashboard. Plus, automated monthly compliance reports keep you aware of what is (or isn’t) working.
• Turn insight into action, with support from WEX
  • EMIT is just one part of the wider ecosystem. With the data generated by the EMIT tool, WEX can help you to put solutions in place, as you continue in your electrification journey and reach your sustainability goals.

WEX EV En Route

With WEX EV En Route, you can use your WEX fleet card account to start charging across the U.S. at a quickly expanding network of public charging stations. Use either a WEX-issued physical radio frequency identification (RFID) card or the DriverDash app for secure transactions. With WEX EV En Route, you use your existing WEX fleet credit line and receive one integrated invoice and set of reports for all your charging and fueling transactions. 

Learn more on how WEX EV En Route can benefit your fleet.

WEX EV At Home

WEX EV At-Home is an innovative, cutting-edge solution automating reporting and reimbursement for any organization with EVs. It allows employees that bring their company electric vehicles home to charge overnight — the most cost-effective way to charge. 

WEX stands at the forefront of emerging fleet management technologies, offering comprehensive solutions to navigate the complexities of fleet management with ease. From advanced fleet management solutions to fleet cards that meet your business needs, WEX has you covered. 

We invite fleet professionals to join us on this exciting journey towards a smarter, more efficient future of fleet management. Together, let’s embrace the opportunities presented by emerging technologies and chart a course toward success.

To learn more about EV solutions and mixed fleets, visit:

• EV: Everything you need to know for your commercial vehicle fleet
• EV adoption: 4 global trends in transition to mixed-energy fleets
• EV FAQs
• How to best incorporate EVs into your fleet
• EV at-home charging

To learn more about WEX, a dynamic and nimble global organization, please visit our About WEX page.

To learn more about WEX’s EV offerings visit our EV page.

All fleet cards are not the same, and different types of fuel cards suit the needs of different kinds and sizes of businesses. View WEX’s fleet card comparison chart to see which fleet fuel card is right for you.

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Editorial note: This article was originally published on June 26, 2024, and has been updated for this publication.