Fleet Financials

CSA Safety Scores Must Distinguish Between Preventable and Non-Preventable Accidents

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 18:23:45 PDT

A growing number of fleets contend that Compliance, Safety & Accountability (CSA) program is in need of substantial improvement. Currently, a fleet’s score in the CSA safety monitoring system is based on all fleet-involved crashes, including those that the company’s driver did not cause and could not reasonably have prevented. This scoring criteria is contrary to accepted industry standards and, in the long run, will undermine the validity of the CSA program in the eyes of covered fleets.

Audi Outranks BMW In Shopper Interest In 30 States Across The U.S.; BMW Leads In Big States

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:33:46 PDT

BMW may be duking it out with Mercedes-Benz for the luxury crown, but the automaker should be keeping a close watch on Audi, which is gaining serious shopper interest across the nation.

Infiniti QX56 Takes Top Honors in AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:57:02 PDT

Infiniti announced that its full-size luxury SUV, the QX56, took top class honors in AutoPacific's annual Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA) in the Luxury/Large SUV Segment.

Managing the Asset Vs. Managing the Driver

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:55:22 PDT

What is your primary responsibility? Is it managing the vehicle or managing the driver? Where do you think you will have the greatest opportunity to control costs and increase productivity?

Volvo Car Group Starts Production of New Engine Family

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:46:33 PDT

Volvo Car Group is now starting production of the first engine variants in the new, high-efficiency four-cylinder engine family. The first variants will be fitted to the Volvo S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 in autumn 2013.

Infiniti’s Founder, Bill Bruce, Dies at 70

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:50:41 PDT

Infiniti has lost its founder, Bill Bruce, who passed away on May 28 at age 70.

Why Mainstream Industry Knowledge Can Help You With Your Job

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:30:09 PDT

Everyone has a budget these days. Everyone has a CFO or boss of some kind who wants you to do more with less. You’re expected to defend your turf. Here’s how to become a star.

Emkay Honored by the Horizon Awards for Interactive Media

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:59:52 PDT

The Horizon Interactive Awards is an international competition that honors the media industry’s best interactive media solutions including web sites, mobile apps, print media, online advertising, video and more.

An Emerging Paradigm Shift to Multi-Modal Mobility

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:46:43 PDT

In Europe, they are asking the question: What is the next evolution of fleet management? A growing number of European fleet professionals believe the concept of “mobility management” will transform the concept of fleet management. They foresee an industry-wide move away from traditional fleet management to mobility management. But, what exactly does this mean?

Sandler to Lead PHH Arval’s Strategic Consulting Team

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:48:28 PDT

PHH Arval has appointed Robert Sandler as its vice president, enterprise consulting and analytics.

BMW to Offer RWD and Diesel Model for All-New 2014 X5

Thu, 30 May 2013 16:12:59 PDT

The all-new 2014 X5 will feature a new rear-wheel drive model in its lineup, the X5 sDrive35i, and an updated diesel model, the X5 xDrive35d. It also features completely new exterior and interior design.

Future Mercedes-Benz Vehicles to Feature QR Codes to Assist First Responders

Wed, 29 May 2013 14:19:33 PDT

When a crash traps a driver or passenger inside, a barcode sticker will provide emergency workers with quick and easy access to a rescue map for the specific vehicle type.

Fleet Safety Conference Registrations Double From Last Year

Wed, 29 May 2013 16:13:46 PDT

A record number of fleet, risk, safety, and other professionals have signed up for the 2013 Fleet Safety Conference, scheduled for June 25-27 in Schaumburg, Ill.

Emkay Wins Two 2013 Communicator Awards

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:42:24 PDT

Emkay competed against thousands of entries from companies and agencies of all sizes and achieved the great honor of winning not only Silver but also Gold for Their 2013 Product Preview Guide.

Amerit Fleet Solutions Hosts Fleet Managers' Summit in Dallas

Tue, 28 May 2013 17:27:04 PDT

Amerit Fleet Solutions hosted its annual Fleet Managers’ Summit May 13-15, 2013. Its Fleet Managers from all over the country gathered for a three-day conference filled with training and workshops.

Nominations Open for the 2013 Fleet Executive of the Year

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:10:37 PDT

Fleet Financials magazine is now accepting nominations for the 2013 Fleet Executive of the Year Award. Note the deadline for nominations is Monday, June 3. The Fleet Executive of the Year award is sponsored by The CEI Group.

BMW Offers Diesel Engine for 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan

Thu, 23 May 2013 13:20:58 PDT

BMW said it is updating its 5 Series family of sedans for the 2014 model-year, with the availability of a new inline-six cylinder diesel engine, design improvements, and more available equipment.

Emkay Named Technology and Innovation Finalist in 2013 American Business Awards

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:33:21 PDT

Emkay was named as a finalist for the Best New Product of the Year and the Best Business Innovation of the Year in the 2013 American Business Awards.

ARI Named as Finalist in 2013 American Business Awards

Thu, 16 May 2013 11:35:12 PDT

ARI, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, was named as a finalist in the Tech Innovation of the Year category by the 2013 American Business Awards.

Volvo Begins New Four-Cylinder Engine Family Production

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:49:06 PDT

Volvo is beginning production of the different engines in its previously announced new four-cylinder family. The new Volvo Engine Architecture family engines are set to be introduced in production models between 2013 and 2015.

GM Reduces Weight of 2014 Cadillac CTS and Its ATS Sedan

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:33:26 PDT

General Motors detailed some of the methods it’s using to reduce weight in its 2014 Cadillac CTS and in its ATS model, including greater use of aluminum.

Emkay Named as Finalist in the 2013 American Business Awards

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:50:23 PDT

Emkay, Inc. announced that they have been selected as finalists for the 2013 American Business Awards in the several categories.

Wheels Named as American Business Awards Finalist

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:39:01 PDT

Wheels, Inc., a leader in the automotive fleet management and services industry, has been named a finalist for the 2013 American Business Awards (commonly known as the “Stevies”).

PHH Arval Named as Finalist in 2013 American Business Awards

Thu, 09 May 2013 11:38:30 PDT

PHH Arval is a finalist in The 2013 American Business AwardsSM in the Business-to-Business Marketing Category for its PHH InterActive for Drivers mobile app, a tool designed to empower and meet the needs of drivers who spend little time in an office.

Lexus Details MSRP and Features for All-New 2014 IS Sedan

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:03:44 PDT

Retail pricing for the all-new 2014 IS Sedan models starts at $35,950 for the RWD model. The vehicle is set to arrive in dealerships this summer.

The Emerging Trend of Simultaneous Remarketing on Multiple Online Platforms

Tue, 07 May 2013 10:00:51 PDT

When you electronically buy an airline ticket, you do so through an electronic hub, such as Egencia. When realtors electronically list homes for sale, they use a multiple listing service for all other realtors to simultaneously see the property listing. Many see comparable change occurring for the remarketing of vehicles in the wholesale market. The consensus among remarketers is not “if” this will occur, but “when.” And, just as important, most see it happening sooner, rather than later

Are Your Drivers Really the Wild Card in Your MPG-Seeking Goal?

Tue, 07 May 2013 18:10:39 PDT

Maybe “yes” if you believe the experts who say that up to 30 percent of a vehicle’s efficiency is impacted by driver behavior. Maybe “no” if you are not influencing your drivers.

Emkay Names Vliek Vice President of Client Solutions

Tue, 07 May 2013 12:01:27 PDT

Emkay Inc. has named Brad Vliek as its new vice president of client solutions. The company said Vliek started at Emkay in 1999 in its vehicle acquisitions department as a management trainee.

Merchants Fleet Management Receives CEO Cancer Gold Standard Accreditation

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:25:46 PDT

The Gold Standard recognizes Merchants Fleet Management’s efforts to reduce the risk of cancer for their employees and covered family members by promoting healthy lifestyle choices, encouraging early detection through cancer screenings, and ensuring access to quality treatment.

LeasePlan USA Named #1 Workplace by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for the 2nd Time

Thu, 02 May 2013 14:51:18 PDT

LeasePlan USA, a high-touch service provider of vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions , has been named a #1 Workplace by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) for the second time.

PHH's Q1 2013 Financial Results Show Leasing Business Increase Over Q4 2012

Thu, 02 May 2013 17:12:21 PDT

PHH Corp. announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2013. The company’s fleet management services division showed a profit of $21 million, which is up $1 million from the fourth quarter of 2012 but down $3 million when compared with the first quarter of 2012.

Mercedes-Benz USA Appoints Cornell as General Manager, Fleet and Pre-Owned

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:02:26 PDT

According to Mercedes, Cornell will be responsible for customer experience, sales volume, and meeting profit targets for the fleet operations department, and the pre-owned vehicles and remarketing programs.

June 29, 2007: A Seminal Day in the History of Fleet

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:50:25 PDT

Significant dates in the history of fleet management, which ushered the start of profound change in the industry, include: Oct. 16, 1973 - The first OPEC oil embargo, which completely altered the types of vehicles driven by fleets and August 12, 1981 - IBM’s launch of its first desktop computer, which expanded computerization beyond the IT department to the desktop of every fleet manager. In future years, a new milestone date will be recognized - June 29, 2007.

Volvo Flywheel Technology Tests Show Fuel Savings Of Up to 25 Percent

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:20:04 PDT

Volvo said that because the flywheel generates energy during braking, this technology is most effective in start-and-stop traffic conditions, for example in urban driving situations.

Donlen Promotes Kachidurian to Sr. VP, Client Services

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:48:32 PDT

In this new role, the company said Kachidurian will help define Donlen’s strategic direction for how it delivers customer service.

Merchants Fleet Management Launches New Interactive Website

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:21:28 PDT

Merchants Fleet Management has re-launched its flagship website: www.merchantsfleetmanagement.com. Designed to provide a new "go-to" resource for fleet management professionals, the website is rich with information and multimedia content and offers the latest in web interactive delivery.

Toyota Moving Lexus ES 350 Production to Kentucky

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:51:26 PDT

The automaker said this move will create 750 new jobs and that it will invest $360 million in the plant.

Hyundai Updates Equus’ Exterior and Interior, and Adds Safety and Technology Features, for 2014

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:15:01 PDT

Hyundai is redesigning its Equus luxury sedan for 2014 with exterior and interior enhancements, new technology displays, and more advanced safety features.

ARI Invests in New Call Center Technology

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:43:21 PDT

ARI, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, announced that it has made a significant investment into its call centers, introducing a system that will speed call time and enhance the overall caller experience.

LeasePlan USA Appoints Swyter as VP of Sales for Western Region States

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:28:16 PDT

According to LeasePlan USA, Swyter will be responsible for tailoring fleet management solutions for new client relationships and business development in Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.

Merchants Leasing Changes Name to 'Merchants Fleet Management'

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:32:19 PDT

The company said this change acknowledges the growth of its organization in not only the fleets the company manages but also the breadth and depth of its service offerings.

New Initiatives Generate Big Savings for Pamlab's Fleet

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:25:23 PDT

The Pamlab fleet team saved more than $100,000 last year as a result of several fleet initiatives, including the cycling of more vehicles and offering four-cylinder vehicles with added features versus standard V-6 models.

Avoiding Fleet Safety and Accident Management 'Speed Bumps'

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:30:08 PDT

Among a fleet manager’s primary duties is ensuring driver safety. While it is imperative to have a safety program in place, avoid the pitfalls that can doom it to failure and negatively affect the bottom line.

Surviving an Internal Audit: What You Need to Know

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:43:07 PDT

Facing an audit may be an unwanted headache for a fleet manager, but it doesn’t have to be. Find out how to make the experience as positive and painless as possible for all parties involved.

De Minimis Entertainment - Where Does it Cross the Line?

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:47:59 PDT

Fleet drivers use company vehicles for more than one reason, including entertainment. Most companies have a policy covering entertainment. Does it clash with what company drivers are doing?

BMW Launches New Online Tool That Shows Data From ActiveE Field Trial

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:22:00 PDT

BMW has launched a new online tool called the Electronaut Effect that gives site visitors data about the range, cost savings, and positive environmental impact of driving BMW ActiveE vehicles.

Audi and T-Mobile Partner to Offer New In-Vehicle Data Plan

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:39:21 PDT

Audi and T-Mobile have partnered to offer a new in-vehicle connectivity plan with a range of different payment options.

Maximize Fuel Efficiency as a Sustainability Goal

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 11:11:13 PDT

Sustainability initiatives will continue to play an important, albeit complex, role in corporate fleets of today and tomorrow. There are a number of excellent alternative-fuel solutions currently available in the market and there are a growing number of fleets that have successfully implemented these solutions. But what can fleets do, whose spirit is green, but whose fiscal reality and operating requirements present road blocks to implementing corporate sustainabililty goals?

BMW Bringing 328d Diesel Sedan to U.S. This Fall

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 14:30:34 PDT

BMW showed its new 328d Sedan, which is powered by the automaker’s 2.0L TwinPower diesel four-cylinder engine, at the New York International Auto Show.

Audi Introduces 2015 A3 Compact Sedans

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 16:04:21 PDT

Audi plans to bring the 2015 editions of its A3 compact sedans to the U.S. in the first quarter of 2014.

ARI Improves Insights Fleet Management System With New UI, Streamlined Functionality

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:46:32 PDT

ARI announced the introduction of a faster, more efficient ARI insights web-based and mobile fleet management system.

Bobit’s ‘Bucket List’

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:28:05 PDT

With no apologies to Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman who starred in the movie, I present my own (fantasy/real-life) wishes. They reflect reader feedback on associations serving fleets.

Cadillac Launches All-New 2014 CTS Sedan in New York

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 13:55:24 PDT

The automaker said key features in the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS include a longer, lower design, the use of lightweight technologies, a new twin-turbo V-6, and the brand’s first eight-speed transmission.

Why is the Fleet Manager the Last to Know?

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:22:16 PDT

During the course of a year, I talk with hundreds of fleet managers and one common complaint is that they are often the last to know when significant corporate decisions are made that impact fleet operations. In these instances, fleet managers are not afforded the same consideration given to their counterparts managing the company’s core businesses. Why does this occur and what can you do about it?

Volvo Bringing V60 Sports Wagon to U.S. Market

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 18:01:53 PDT

Volvo is planning to bring its V60 Sports Wagon to the U.S. in early 2014. The automaker said the V60 is designed for those who want a sports sedan but need the versatility of a wagon.

Buick LaCrosse Gets Exterior, Interior, and Technology Updates for 2014

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:54:46 PDT

GM’s Buick Brand is introducing the latest edition of its LaCrosse at the New York International Auto Show.

MasterCard Piloting New Fleet Fuel Card Mobile App

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:03:24 PDT

The mobile fleet app allows drivers to visit any fuel merchant and enter the data required by their fleet managers, including the type and amount of fuel purchased, the price paid per gallon, the odometer reading, along with many additional features.

Cadillac Twin-Turbo Engine to Debut in All-New 2014 CTS Sedan

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 16:46:15 PDT

GM’s Cadillac brand said the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS, which the company plans to debut at the New York International Auto Show, will feature a new engine, a twin-turbo V-6, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Fleet Financials: When an Extended Warranty Makes Sense...and When it Doesn't

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:14:47 PDT

With costs ranging from several hundred to more than $1,000 per vehicle, deciding on whether to buy an extended warranty can have a major impact on fleet costs and is worth careful consideration.

ARI System Enhancements Boost its MVR Program

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 09:43:30 PDT

Recent enhancements to site appearance and navigation have improved the MVR request process. Additionally, ARI’s investment in in-memory technology in 2012 has increased the speed at which fleet managers are alerted to issues related to MVR reports.

10 Strategies to Curb Medium-Duty Truck Operating Costs

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:52:51 PDT

There is ongoing upward pressure on operating costs for medium-duty truck fleets. Factors impacting operating costs are volatile diesel prices, replacement tire costs, and longer service lives, which are increasing maintenance expenses due to component failures, escalating parts prices, and higher labor rates. Here are 10 strategies fleets are employing to mitigate these cost increases.

BMW i Mobility Services Expanding ParkNow Parking Spot Reservation Service

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:25:27 PDT

BMW's i Mobility Services has partnered with a company called NOW! Innovations. This partnership will allow users of a mobile app and website called ParkNow to not only reserve parking spots in parking garages, but also to reserve on-street parking.

Mike Albert Fleet Solutions Recognized as Live United 100 Company in Cincinnati

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:47:14 PDT

Mike Albert Fleet Solutions has joined 99 local companies being named a Live United 100 company by the United Way of Greater Cincinnati. This recognition is given to local companies with the highest per capita giving with 10 to 500 employees.

ARI and Team Holman Recognized by South Jersey Autism Speaks as Top Fundraiser

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:55:31 PDT

ARI and Team Holman were recently recognized by the Greater Delaware Valley Chapter of Autism Speaks as the top Southern New Jersey “Walk Now for Autism Speaks” fundraising team of 2012.

LeasePlan USA Honored as a 2013 Global Outsourcing 100 Company

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 08:30:24 PST

Solidifying its position as a true global fleet management provider, LeasePlan USA was honored for the second consecutive year as a Global Outsourcing 100 company by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP).

ARI Hosts 4th Annual Railroad Fleet Symposium in Las Vegas

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:43:41 PST

Representatives from the leading Class One railroads in the U.S., Canada and Mexico joined ARI fleet experts to discuss the latest trends in the industry, best practices and benchmarking, and the newest technology offerings that are helping railroads run their car and truck fleets more efficiently and cost effectively.

PHH Arval's 20th Energy Conference Brings Together Key Industry Professionals

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:45:29 PST

The conference brought together over 50 energy industry fleet professionals to address goals, concerns and business improvement strategies.

Volvo Says XC60 is First Luxury SUV to Achieve Top Safety Pick+ Recognition

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:09:53 PST

Volvo said the 2013 X60 and S60 earned IIHS’ highest rating of “good” in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's tests.

GM Details How it Achieved High Level of Driver Visibility in the Cadillac ATS

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:46:32 PST

GM's Cadillac division engineers evaluated a number of factors, including the exterior mirror and A-pillar size, seat height, forward vision distance, side vision distance, and whether any interior features blocked the view through a window (for example headrests).

Wheels' Workforce Management Team Earns American Business Award

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:03:03 PST

The Wheels Workforce Management Team (WMT) was presented with a Bronze Stevie in the Back-Office Customer Service Team of the Year category during an award gala Monday night in Las Vegas.

ARI Wins Bronze in 2013 Stevie Awards for Contact Center of the Year

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:04:49 PST

ARI, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, was presented with a Bronze Stevie Award in the Contact Center of the Year (over 100 seats) category in the seventh Annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service.

Volvo Unveils Cyclist Detection Safety Feature with Auto Brake

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:30:51 PST

A cyclist in the same lane swerving out in front of the car is one incident type that is addressed by Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake, which will be available in the Volvo V40, S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 models from mid-May this year.

Is Technology 'Dumbing Down' Fleet Managers?

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:59:59 PST

While technology has transformed fleet management to a science, it has also created the risk that, ultimately, technology may “dumb down” fleet managers. In the past, fleet managers would personally perform the calculations and engage in the “cerebral sweat” to accomplish almost all fleet functions. Nowadays (and increasingly so in the future), sophisticated fleet management systems perform these calculations and analyses with the fleet manager only seeing the end result, not the prrocess.

The Impact of Larger Diameter Tires on Fleets

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:26:54 PST

The average replacement tire cost per month rose 15 percent, and, on a cost-per-mile basis, rose 10 percent in 2012 compared to 2011. There are a variety of factors influencing tire costs, such as commodity prices and increased global demand; however, the industry-wide retail trend to larger diameter OE tire sizes is a key factor in driving up replacement tire prices in the past decade.

Emkay Wins Big at Stevie Awards Claiming Best Back Office Support Team of the Year

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:03:19 PST

Emkay Inc. was honored by the Stevie Awards this week by being named “Best Back Office Support Team Of The Year” and claiming the Gold Award. With this victory, Emkay earned their third Gold Stevie award in the last three years.

Volvo Redesigns S80 Sedan and XC70 Crossover for 2014 Model Year

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 14:03:28 PST

Volvo said it plans to debut major changes to its current model lineup at the Geneva Auto Show in Europe, including the latest editions of the automaker’s S80 sedan and XC70 crossover.

Hertz Equipment Rental and Donlen Launch New Equipment Acquisition Program

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 16:27:24 PST

The Hertz Corp. and Donlen are launching a new program called HERC Ready Finance, which will give Hertz Equipment’s customers access to what the companies call “one-stop-shopping” and to financing for equipment and trucks through Donlen.

Why Aren’t Dealers More Fleet-Minded?

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:17:34 PST

Factory leadership and training, thin profits vs. retail, and the sheer systemic “retail orientation” at all marketing levels makes “fleet” a near orphan.

Audi to Show A3 e-tron Plug-in Hybrid in Geneva

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 14:44:39 PST

Audi said this vehicle will provide glimpse into the future of the company's products and that plug-in hybrid technology will play a “deciding role” in the brand’s strategy.

DON'T MISS OUT! First-Ever Commercial Fleet Industry Report Card

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:10:36 PST

Check your e-mail inbox! You may be one of the select group of commercial fleet managers being asked to participate in creating the first-ever Commercial Fleet Industry Report Card. This is a not-to-be missed opportunity to be heard and make a difference!

Volvo Details 2014 Model-Year Updates to S60 and XC60

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:16:30 PST

Key features for these vehicles include an overall new design, new more comfortable sport seats, the automaker’s new Sensus Connected Touch infotainment system, and new automatically adjusting high beam lights.

Donlen Named as Leader on the IAOP 2013 Global Outsourcing 100

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 08:45:01 PST

This is the seventh time Donlen has been named as one of the best outsourcing service providers by IAOP.

Last Chance to See How Your Salary Compares

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 13:41:58 PST

It's your last chance to see how you compare with your peers! Every two years, Automotive Fleet conducts a salary survey of fleet managers to find out what the average salary is for the fleet manager position.

Top 15 Fleet Maintenance Trends in 2013 & Beyond

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:06:21 PST

Vehicle quality continues to improve and extended powertrain warranties have covered some expensive repairs, which occur at higher mileage. Although quality has increased, vehicles are becoming more complex, especially with the proliferation of new onboard technologies. In this context, what follows are the top 15 maintenance trends for passenger cars that are facing commercial fleet managers in 2013 and beyond.

Overview: Argentinian Fleet Market

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:39:38 PST

Argentina continues to be the second-largest fleet market in South America. Fleet leasing is not prominent in Argentina; it is more common for corporations to purchase fleet vehicles.

BMW’s All-New 3 Series Gran Turismo Offers More Interior Room and Trunk Space

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:18:39 PST

BMW is introducing its all-new 3 Series Gran Turismo, which features luxury seating for four and more luggage capacity, plus added interior space for greater passenger and drive comfort.

Bedard Joins Ford’s Commercial Truck Team

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:59:16 PST

Ford announced that Mike Bedard has joined its Commercial Truck team as its commercial truck sales manager. Along with this change, Ford appointed Megan Pallischeck to the position of regional sales manager for the East region.

Prediction: There Will Always Be a Fleet Manager

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 14:34:40 PST

A number of firms have attempted to eliminate their entire fleet department in favor of outsourcing. There are sound reasons why these companies inevitably reinstall a fleet manager.

How Does Your Salary Compare to the Industry?

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 15:54:33 PST

Every two years, Automotive Fleet conducts a salary survey of fleet managers to find out what the average salary is for the fleet manager position. See how you compare with your peers.

BMW Introduces Entry-Level 3 Series 320i Luxury Sedan

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 12:32:25 PST

BMW launched the sixth generation of its 3 Series Sedan in 2012, and this year it launched its new 2013-MY BMW 320i Sedan for the U.S. market.

Audi Details 2014 Audi A8 L TDI Fuel Economy and Pricing

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 15:18:03 PST

Audi said the A8 L TDI will go on sale in early spring 2013.

Lincoln Shows MKC Concept Luxury Small Utility in Detroit

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:45:41 PST

The MKC Concept is based on what Lincoln calls its “Lincoln Design DNA,” which is shown in the new MKZ.

When an Extended Warranty Makes Sense...and When it Doesn't

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:33:29 PST

To determine whether an extended warranty is right for your fleet, review vehicle usage, lifecycles, and replacement policies.

How to Survive and Thrive in a Procurement Environment

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:36:22 PST

Increasingly, fleet managers find themselves interacting with procurement or purchasing functions. This can lead to confusion and frustration, unless fleet managers understand how to deal with procurement pros.

How to Determine What Size is the Right Size

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:37:14 PST

Rightsizing is more than simply utilizing smaller displacement engines or vehicle downsizing. It involves ensuring the optimal number of properly spec’ed vehicles are available for fleets to fulfill their mission.

BMW Expands Its Presence in the Commercial Fleet Market

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:38:35 PST

CY-2012 was a great sales year for BMW North America. Contributing to this sales effort was the BMW Group Corporate Fleet Program for the BMW and MINI brands, which has expanded its inroads into the commercial fleet market.

How to Manage Your Fleet Management Company

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:39:39 PST

With resources and staff increasingly dear, fleet managers are often forced to outsource. When they do, they become vendor managers as much as fleet managers. Here is how to effectively manage a fleet management company.

Wanted: Fleet Manager - Experience Necessary

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:40:37 PST

With falling unemployment and a relaxation on hiring, there are an increasing number of opportunities for fleet managers to make a change. Identifying the right candidate can be easy if the focus is on essential qualifications.

What Percentage of Your Budgeted Fleet Dollars are Wasted?

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:09:35 PST

How much of a fleet’s annual budgeted dollars are wasted? Is it 5 percent, 10 percent, or even more? In my mind, eliminating waste is the proverbial low-hanging fruit. Before implementing new fleet initiatives requiring new dollars, let’s make our No. 1 priority to stop the waste of existing dollars. Let's examine the fleet-related areas that are rife with waste and discuss the protocols you need to minimize it.

Toyota Shows All-New 2014 Lexus IS in Detroit

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:06:39 PST

Toyota's Lexus brand said it focused on a mix of improving the vehicle’s performance characteristics in the new model along with a new exterior design and interior refinements.