Corporate Fleet Research Articles

Proposed Enterprise Architecture on System Fleet Management: PT. Integrasia Utama

An information technology consulting firm that specializes in Global Positioning Systems provides fleet management services for many of its clients. The systems currently used by companies require more advanced modernization to ensure optimal service delivery. To overcome this challenge, a proposed enterprise architecture on system fleet management is presented in this paper. The proposed enterprise architecture is a comprehensive solution that includes the necessary hardware, software and operational processes to improve fleet management services. The proposed architecture is based on the Enterprise Architecture, which enables the integration of various systems and applications used by companies. The proposed architecture includes modules for vehicle tracking, fuel management, maintenance scheduling and driver performance monitoring. These modules work together to provide real-time data on fleet operations, enabling companies to make informed decisions regarding their fleet management services. The proposed architecture also incorporates an easy-to-use interface that simplifies the fleet management process and enhances customer satisfaction. The proposed system is scalable and easily adaptable to meet service requirements across multiple customers. In conclusion, the proposed enterprise architecture for system fleet management provides a comprehensive solution to the current challenges faced by companies as a corporate fleet service provider. The proposed architecture will improve service, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

Electric Vehicle Charging Data Analytics of Corporate Fleets

The advances in electric mobility, motivated by current sustainability issues, have led public and private organizations to invest in the electrification of their corporate fleets. To succeed in this transition, companies must mitigate the impacts of electrification on their fleet operation, in particular the ones on vehicle recharging. The increase in energy demand caused by electrification may require changes in the company electrical infrastructure, the installation of charging stations, and the proper planning of the recharging schedule, considering the particularities of each fleet and operation. In this context, data analytics is seen as an important tool to help companies to understand their charging fleet profile, supporting decision makers in making data-driven decisions regarding their charging infrastructure. This paper shows how data analytics could be applied to analyze the charging data of corporate electric fleets, adopting a business-oriented analysis method based on the Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) methodology. The analyses were performed on data collected from three different companies, with each one of them operating fleets of vehicles of different categories, i.e., ultra-light, light, and heavy vehicles. The results illustrate how data analytics, based on interactive reports and dashboards, can shed light on business questions related to the operation of electric vehicle corporate fleets.

The dynamics of electric vehicle acceptance in corporate fleets: Evidence from Germany

Electric vehicles as part of corporate fleets play a key role in reducing CO2 emissions. However, business practice has shown that employees often refrain from using these newly procured fleet vehicles. The aim of this paper is therefore to explain the drivers and barriers of acceptance of electric vehicles on the employee's level. Based on a Grounded Theory approach, the authors extracted five main determinants from interviews with 16 experts. They were cross-checked with the literature including technology acceptance literature and electric vehicle research. To understand the dynamics of acceptance, panel data was collected in a longitudinal study with three waves in Germany. The panel data was analyzed using partial least squares (PLS) path modelling. Results show that employees' environmental concern as an attitudinal factor is the only short-term determinant triggering the first electric vehicle usage. Later, the influence of environmental concern disappears, while the impact of product-related determinants, such as enjoyment, ease of use, perceived risks, and relative advantage increases. Furthermore, a mediating effect of enjoyment emerges between ease of use on the intention to use an electric vehicle. Several important implications for decision-makers in management and policy are deduced to support short- and long-term usage of electric vehicles in corporate fleets.

Sustainability in Fleet Management

Purpose: This paper aims to discuss sustainability in fleet management at companies considering simultaneously the three dimensions of sustainability, which are economic, environmental, and social, corresponding to the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach. Approach/Methodology/Design: This paper examines the subject and employs a theory-building-descriptive design. Three key themes in the aspect of sustainability and in terms of fleet management were examined: economic, environmental, and social. Findings: In today’s world, almost every company operates vehicle fleets to perform business requirements and irrespective of the size of vehicles, these companies need to execute some certain fleet operations under the phenomenon of fleet management. Fleet management entails a transition to a more sustainable model which should try to adopt economic, environmental, social dimensions. While the economic dimension of sustainability brings about a new model called the TCM, the environmental dimension constructs a road map to greener fleets and delivers quick wins that companies can easily implement in their agendas. The social dimension concerns the well-being of people and society which seeks to find a balance between their needs and the requirements of fleet management. Practical Implications: The paper recommends a subsequent study through an empirical way that would investigate the actual sustainability behaviours and initiatives of companies present in Turkey. Originality/value: In recent years, sustainability has become an interesting topic for scholars in many areas of research. However, the literature is lacking ample studies concerning sustainability in corporate fleet management. Therefore, the main contribution and novelty of this paper is to provide companies with policy advice regarding the three pillars of sustainability for their applications to vehicle fleet management.

Electrifying the company car: Identifying hard and soft barriers among fleet managers in Switzerland

Electric mobility has an important role to play in the transition to a more sustainable transportation system. However, adoption is still relatively slow in most countries, also within organizations and their corporate fleets. Much cited hard barriers such as the limited availability of charging infrastructure do not fully explain this slow uptake. Consequently, the research field of social acceptance of electric mobility with a focus on acceptance related soft barriers has emerged. This paper adds new theoretical as well as practical insights to the debate. Methodologically, the paper is based on a multi-method approach. Firstly, an online survey with Swiss fleet managers (n = 30) supports the importance of acceptance related soft barriers. 63% of the participants assessed the lack of knowledge as an important barrier and the lack of demand from employees was considered an important barrier by 56% of the participants. Secondly, a behavioral intervention campaign to address those barriers was developed and assessed in a field experiment with carpool users (n = 10) in the city of St. Gallen. The behavioral intervention campaign consisted of a one-week trial period with EVs in the normal course of business life, free of charge, and without obligation. The results of the field experiment indicate that acceptance levels of both hard and soft barriers evolved positively from before (T0) to after (T1) the trial period. This suggests that designing a campaign to address acceptance related soft barriers might help increase social acceptance and the adoption of EVs in corporate fleets.

Drivers and challenges of electric vehicles integration in corporate fleet: An empirical survey

Low-carbon economy roadmaps aim to reduce transport emissions by relying, at least to some extent, on electric vehicles. The uptake of electric vehicles on a mass scale requires the simultaneous adoption of such vehicles for private and commercial purposes. Although literature regarding the private sphere is consistent, there is comparatively less empirical research seeking to explain the factors that enable and hinder the uptake of electric vehicles at a commercial level at which fleet managers have a prominent role. Based on an empirical survey conducted in Italy, this paper investigates the role of technical and financial information in fleet managers' procurement decision-making. Results suggest a lack of awareness regarding technical characteristics of vehicles, given that 59% of the fleet managers surveyed scored low to medium. Furthermore, a misalignment related to the expected investment payback period was observed, considering that 49% declared that they expect a payback period within three years. Given that exposure to electric vehicles within fleets constitutes an incentive for private purchase, well-designed policies for corporate fleets' electrification would lead to remarkable growth of the electric vehicles s market.

How do Social Signals Foster the Adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles in Corporate Fleets? A Multilevel Framework

This paper investigates the impact of social signals on the adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in Corporate Fleets. The acceptance of BEVs in organizations takes place on different hierarchical levels. We conducted an exploratory research using depth interviews with 16 employees responsible for the purchase BEVs within their companies. Findings show evidence for both factors affecting individual acceptance on the different levels, following the Theory of Reasoned Action as well as social signals influencing the inferiors’ adoption of BEVs. We developed a multi-level-framework, which integrates the adoption on different levels and demonstrates the impact and mechanisms of social signals on intra-organizational adoption of innovations. Based on this framework, implications for theory and managerial practice are developed to enhance the success of the adoption of BEVs.

How do Social Signals Foster the Adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles in Corporate Fleets? A Multilevel Framework

How do Social Signals Foster the Adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles in Corporate Fleets? A Multilevel Framework

How Do Autonomous Cars Work?

The automotive industry is one of the most important industries in Europe. This industry is responsible for 14% of total production and capital investment in the European manufacturing sector. The following rise of driverless vehicles is going to have a major impact on businesses and professionals. Automated vehicles could replace corporate fleets for deliveries or transporting employees, for example. And workers could gain productive hours in the day by working instead of driving during daily commutes. Innovations in this field are also poised to completely change the car insurance industry by reducing accidents - a new report predicts that accidents will drop by 80% by 2040. The interconnection and synchronization of radar and ultrasonic sensors and optical cameras allow completely autonomous driving. This article deals with the description of autonomous cars, specifically their classification, technology, components, working, potential advantages and obstacles.

Cargo cycles in commercial transport: Potentials, constraints, and recommendations

Cargo cycles can play a significant role in supplying urban centers, helping to decrease harmful commercial transport externalities. Some companies have already carried out initial pilot schemes using cargo cycles in order to assess technologically and economically feasible use cases. However, a structural overview of the relevant market segments for commercial cargo cycle use and suitable recommendations is lacking. This paper provides results from an extensive empirical survey, based on desk research and 45 expert interviews with corporate fleet managers, urban planners, and representatives from municipalities and bicycle associations. Hidden potentials can be found not only in logistics industries, but also in businesses offering home deliveries and other services. Insight into drivers, constraints and companies' requirements allows recommendations to be derived for municipalities to stimulate cargo cycles' market penetration. These recommendations address regulative frameworks, strategic urban planning, infrastructure adjustments, testing programs, collaborations with the private sector, platforms for knowledge transfer, and the use of cargo cycles by public authorities.

A tutorial on the use of PLS path modeling in longitudinal studies

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic overview with guidelines how to use partial least squares (PLS) path modeling in longitudinal studies. Practical examples from a study of the acceptance of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in corporate fleets are used for demonstration purposes. Design/methodology/approach In this study, data at three points in time were collected: before the initial use of a BEV, after three and after six months of extensive usage of BEVs. Findings Three different models are identified depending on the research objective and on the data basis. Multigroup analyses are suggested to test the difference between the path coefficients of latent variables at different points in time. Limitations for the use of repeated cross-sectional data have to be observed. Originality/value Academics and practitioners will benefit from this paper by receiving an overview of the different PLS path models in longitudinal studies. A decision-tree enables them to make a choice regarding the most appropriate model and suggests a sequence of complementary analyses. So far, there is a lack of a tutorial type paper delivering such guidance.

Potential Users of Electric Mobility in Commercial Transport – Identification and Recommendations

Commercial transport is seen as early adopter of electric mobility. But there is lack of knowledge regarding the use of battery electric vehicles for commercial transportation and potential user groups. We outline a reliable and cost effective methodology to identify vehicles that can be substituted by battery electric vehicles in corporate fleets – technologically and economically efficient. We analyzed statistical data to identify economic sectors that might suit for electric mobility and conducted an online survey with fleet managers of these sectors to gain knowledge about driving patterns and their attitude towards the use of BEV. Furthermore we conducted a GPS data tracking of selected corporate fleets to proof substitution potentials. The analysis was done in Austria and Germany. For fleet management systems designed for mixed and electric fleets we outline a framework and explain algorithmic concepts. Finally, we derive recommendations for stakeholders such as policy makers, vehicle manufacturers, service providers and corporate fleet operators.The statistical analyses show that highest potentials for battery electric vehicles are according to NACE nomenclature in Wholesale and retail trade, Service and Human health sector. The survey revealed that driving range of battery electric vehicles already comply daily mileage requirements with a high extent within Germany nursing companies and pharmacies. Furthermore, the attitude of the interrogated fleet managers towards the use of BEV is mostly positive but detailed knowledge about BEV and driving patterns of the own vehicles is lacking. Finally, the GPS data tracking could proof high potentials for BEV in these economic sectors.

Proposal of an Observatory of Trends for Nanotechnology in the Context of Technology Management in an Oil and Gas R&D Center - Case: Nanotechnology

The advantages of Usage-Based Insurance for automotive covers over conventional rating methods have been discussed in literature for over four decades. Notwithstanding their adoption in insurance markets has been slow. This paper seeks to establish the viability of introducing fleet Telematics-Based Insurance by investigating the perceptions of insurance operators, tracking service providers and corporate fleet owners. At its core, the study involves a SWOT-analysis to appraise Telematics-Based Insurance against conventional premium rating systems. Twenty five key stakeholders in Malta, a country with an insurance industry that represents others in microcosm, were interviewed to develop our analysis. We assert that local insurers have interests in such insurance schemes as enhanced fleet management and monitoring translate into an improved insurance risk. The findings presented here have implications for all stakeholders as we argue that telematics enhance fleet management, TBI improves risk management for insurers and adoption of this technology is dependent on telematics providers increasing the perceived control by insurers over managing this technology.

The Conversion of a Hybrid Electric Vehicle into a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Towards low carbon living and clean air quality is CLP Power Hong Kong Ltd. (CLP)'s energy vision and to achieve this goal, the promotion of a cleaner mode of transportation in Hong Kong has been one of CLP's key green initiatives. Recently, CLP has successfully converted a few Toyota Prius hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) into plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). Different from the HEV, a PHEV allows the driver to plug into a socket to connect the vehicle to the electrical grid to charge its larger battery pack that replaced the original smaller one. The objective of the conversion exercise is to test the capability and gauge the benefits of the converted PHEV to run on electricity as much as possible, whilst keeping the capability to switch back to conventional combustion engine if required for longer trips. This paper addresses the conversion technical details and shares the operation experience of employing a PHEV in the corporate fleet as well as discusses the underlying business assessment of such exercise. The benefits achieved with the PHEV in terms of reduced emissions and fuel cost savings are also reviewed.

TOUGHER TANK CARS

CHEMICAL SHIPPERS are urging the federal government to rethink its plan to improve the safety of railroad tank cars that carry the most dangerous hazardous materials, including two chemicals blamed for more than a dozen deaths in freight train accidents since 2002. At a series of public meetings in Washington, D.C., last month, representatives of companies that make and ship chlorine, anhydrous ammonia, and other highly toxic chemicals told a panel of Department of Transportation (DOT) officials that many of their proposals include unrealistic timelines and may require technologies that currently do not exist. “To achieve their objective, the proposed new rules must be based on sound technical data, balance the economic interests of both shippers and carriers, and not create incentives for shippers to transport more hazardous chemicals by highway since rail is by far the safest and most environmentally friendly method of land transport,” said Karl Alexy, DuPont’s corporate fleet engineer. At issue ...

Working in light vehicles—A review and conceptual model for occupational health and safety

Occupational light vehicle (OLV) use is the leading cause of work related traumatic deaths in Westernised countries. Previous research has focused primarily on narrow contexts of OLV-use such as corporate fleet vehicles. We have proposed a comprehensive systems model for OLV-use to provide a framework for identifying research needs and proposing policy and practice interventions. This model presents the worker as the locus of injury at the centre of work- and road-related determinants of injury. Using this model, we reviewed existing knowledge and found most studies focused only on company car drivers, neglecting OLV-users in non-traditional employment arrangements and those using other vehicle types. Environmental exposures, work design factors and risk and protective factors for the wider OLV-user population are inadequately researched. Neither road- nor work-related policy appropriately addresses OLV-use, and population surveillance relies largely on inadequate workers compensation insurance data. This review demonstrates that there are significant gaps in understanding the problem of OLV-use and a need for further research integrating public health, insurance and road safety responses. The model provides a framework for understanding the theory of OLV-use OHS and guidance for urgently needed intervention research, policy and practice.

The Greater Toronto area revisited

The former municipality of Metropolitan Toronto was Canada’s largest government and a unique body. It was abolished on 31 December 1997 and a new unified City was ushered in on 1 January 1998. It consists of all the former municipalities of the Metropolitan Council and has reduced the former two‐tier system to a single tier. There was considerable opposition initially to the establishment of a unicity by local politicians and the citizenry at large. This has to be seen against a background of general opposition to some of the policy decisions of the Ontario Provincial Government at that particular point in time. Despite the opposition, legislation was enacted establishing the new City. The councillors initially elected in late 1997, the top management team of the Council and virtually all the residents have since accepted the decision on unification and have committed themselves to building the new City. The transition team appointed by the Province and the political and management component of Toronto have done considerable groundwork in developing the unified City to meet present and future challenges locally, regionally and internationally. The amalgamation of the municipalities has resulted in savings of $150 million resulting from inter alia, reduction of departments and divisions, staff, information technology systems, office space, consolidating of the corporate fleet and the City Service Boards. It should be noted that amalgamated programmes only constituted 27 per cent of the budget of the new City. However, coincidental with the amalgamation process was the implementation of the “Who Does What” policy introduced by the provincial government and the Council had to take on significant additional responsibilities. Provincial assistance was provided by way of a one‐off grant of $50 million and a $200 million loan. Consequently, any actual savings achieved initially will have to be viewed in this context.

Common Property, Political Economy, and Local Resource Management

Between 1984 and 1994, Thailand earned the enviable distinction of having the world's fastest growing economy. This was largely the result of two salient factors: (1) an unprecedented amount of foreign direct investment; and (2) an economic strategy that promoted the production of export commodities. For the rural economy, the transformations of the 1980s and 1990s generated tremendous opportunity and wealth. At the same time, the rise of new markets (both within and outside Thailand) created strong incentives to ‘mine’ the natural resource economy. Such was the case in Thai fishing. From 1963 onwards, the acquisition of new technologies put increasing pressure on Thailand's most productive coastal areas, disrupting valuable spawning grounds and producing widespread conflict between village-based producers and corporate fleets, and among village producers themselves. Responding to these pressures, government officials, non-governmental organizations, and industry analysts have advocated a shift to a more decentralized style of fisheries management. At the heart of this perspective is a view that natural resources can be managed most effectively when rules are designed, monitored, and enforced by those who use the resource – as opposed to those who manage it from afar. A challenge in encouraging this type of strategy is that coastal resource management can be costly, particularly when the resource is readily available and in high demand. Drawing upon thirteen months' primary research, this article explores the viability and wisdom of encouraging local communities to monitor and enforce rules of restricted access in coastal fishing. The principal findings arise from a case study in southern Thailand, where villagers were able to implement and enforce rules of restricted access in their traditional fishing area.

A Method for Identifying General Aviation Airports that are Candidates for Runway Extensions: A Planning Model for State Aviation Systems

One of the most important characteristics of an airport is the length of its longest runway: that length determines the types of aircraft that can use the airport and provides a margin of safety for users. A runway extension, therefore, would enhance the utility of many airports. But resources are scarce, and if funds are to be allocated at the state level, state officials need a method for determining which airports could best use a longer runway. Consideration of demographic factors enhances the traditional engineering analysis approach to runway evaluation. This combined approach is more consistent with the goals of comprehensive airport planning. This paper describes a model that uses regression analysis to compare airports in Alabama, taking into account a number of different demographic factors and airport related factors. A linear regression model was used to evaluate how an airport's runway length compared to others around the state with similar characteristics. The residuals from the regressions were used to identify those airports with relatively short runways, considering their other characteristics. The regression analysis identified 22 of the 106 public-use airports in Alabama as having runways substantially shorter than their other characteristics would predict.