Data collection and analysis for efficient management
Fleet monitoring tools: the sinews of war
In the age of Big Data, fleet monitoring tools have become indispensable for optimum management of electric vehicles. These technologies enable managers to collect and analyze a multitude of data in real time, providing a 360° view of each vehicle's performance. They also have a real impact on the performance of electric vehicle fleets:
- reduced operating costs by up to 20%.,
- improvement in energy efficiency by 15% on average,
- 30% reduction in downtime.
What are the key features of monitoring tools?
- Real-time geolocation
- Route optimization
- Journey times reduced by up to 15%.
- Energy consumption monitoring
- Precise analysis ofautonomy
- Optimized refills, reducing energy costs by 10%.
- Predictive maintenance
- Early detection of anomalies
- Reduces unexpected breakdowns by 40%.
- Analysis of driving behavior
- Promoting eco-responsible driving
- Accident reduction of 25%.
Several solutions stand out in the field of electric fleet monitoring:
- Geotab More than 2.5 million vehicles connected worldwide
- Samsara Used by over 20,000 customers worldwide
- Fleetio Manages over 1.5 million assets in 80 countries
- Verizon Connect : Present in over 150 countries
- Webfleet Solutions (formerly TomTom Telematics): More than 50,000 corporate customers
We recommend that you choose a tool that integrates easily with your existing management system to maximize operational efficiency. Successful integration can increase your fleet's productivity by 25%.
Feature comparison table
| Functionality | Geotab | Samsara | Fleetio | Verizon Connect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Real-time geolocation |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Energy consumption monitoring |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Predictive maintenance |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Analysis of driving behavior |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
API integration
|
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Mobile application |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Customizable reports |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Electric vehicle management |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Route optimization |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
The Beev fleet tool
At Beev, we also have our own Beev electric fleet management tool for business 100% free of charge. It offers several interesting features, including :
- Easy management of vehicles and charging stations
- 24-hour monitoring of fleet and charging station status
- Management of interviews and contract terminations.
- Add vehicles and drivers with dashboards.
- Manage interviews and revisions with an integrated calendar.
- ...
By adopting these advanced tools, fleet managers can transform their data into real performance levers. According to a recent study, companies using advanced monitoring tools saw their return on investment increase by an average of 30% over a three-year period.
The key lies in choosing the right solution for your specific needs, and making the most of the information gathered. With a successful implementation, you can expect :
- 15 to 25% reduction in operating costs,
- a 20% increase in vehicle life,
- a 30% improvement in customer satisfaction thanks to better punctuality and reliability.
Investing in a fleet monitoring tool is no longer an option, it's a necessity to stay competitive in today's electric vehicle fleet market.
Fleet management software: centralize information for better decision-making
Effective management of a fleet of vehicles requires the collection, analysis and centralization of data for strategic decision-making. Fleet management software plays a crucial role in this process, providing an overview of all aspects of vehicle operation, from maintenance to cost management to driver safety. Thanks to these tools, managers can optimize fleet utilization, reduce costs and improve overall productivity.
Fleet management software enables you to centralize essential information, such as vehicle condition, driver behavior, fuel consumption and optimal routes. With access to real-time data, managers can quickly identify areas for improvement and make decisions based on hard facts:
- Vehicle performance monitoring : provide detailed reports on vehicle usage (mileage, parts wear, maintenance requirements).
- Optimization of operating costs: better management of fuel, maintenance and repair costs.
- Improved driver safety: software can monitor driver behaviour and identify risky behaviour (excessive speed or sudden braking).
- Regulatory compliance : Companies must comply with various transport and environmental regulations.
Also read → Fleet management: how to choose your fleet management software?
Data-driven cost optimization
Controlling the total cost of ownership (TCO) of electric vehicles
TCO covers all costs associated with the acquisition, use and maintenance of vehicles over their lifecycle. For a company, understanding and reducing TCO means saving money and improving profitability.
The five components of TCO
- Purchase or leasing cost
The initial purchase price or leasing payments are higher for electric vehicles than for internal combustion vehicles. However, many countries offer tax incentives and subsidies to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles, which can significantly reduce the initial cost.
- Energy costs
Electric vehicles are generally less expensive to recharge than internal combustion vehicles are to refuel. The average cost of electricity per kilometer is often lower than that of fuel. For example, the average cost of electricity in France is around 13 centimes per kWh, which translates into a cost of around €0.03 to €0.05 per km for an electric vehicle.
- Maintenance and repairs
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than gasoline-powered vehicles. Electric vehicle owners spend around 50% less on maintenance and repairs than combustion vehicle owners over five years.
- Insurance
Insurance costs may vary, but electric vehicles may benefit from preferential rates due to their enhanced safety and ecological bonus programs.
- Residual Value
The resale value of electric vehicles is influenced by the condition of the battery and future technological advances. However, growing demand for these vehicles tends to stabilize their residual value.
TCO calculation
Here's a table showing how to calculate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for an electric car, using the example of a Renault Zoë e-Tech over a 5-year period. The table includes various components of the total cost.
| Component | Description | Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|
|
Initial purchase cost |
Renault Zoe initial purchase price, base model |
32 000 € |
|
Tax incentives |
Reduction due to ecological bonus in France (€7,000) |
– 7,000 € |
|
Energy costs |
Average electricity cost of €0.17/kWh for 15,000 km/year over 5 years |
3,200 € |
|
Maintenance costs |
General maintenance (overhauls, tires) over 5 years, often less expensive than a combustion engine |
1,500 € |
|
Insurance |
Annual insurance costs €600 for 5 years |
3,000 € |
|
Residual Value |
Estimated resale value after 5 years. |
-12,000 € |
|
Cost of Carte Grise |
Administrative fees for electric vehicle registration (often reduced) |
0 € |
|
Total TCO over 5 years
|
Calculation of total cost of ownership over 5 years |
20,700 € |
Preventive maintenance: anticipate to save
Preventive maintenance is an essential strategy for optimizing fleet management costs and maximizing vehicle life. By anticipating maintenance needs, companies can avoid costly repairs, reduce downtime, and guarantee optimum performance from their electric vehicles. It is crucial because it enables :
- reduce breakdowns and costly repairs,
- improve safety,
- optimize the lifespan of electric vehicles.
To implement it, it's important to train drivers to identify the warning signs of mechanical problems, and to encourage eco-responsible driving practices to reduce wear and tear on vehicles and extend their lifespan. Also, by scheduling regular servicing based on mileage, vehicle age and operating conditions, companies can anticipate and avoid breakdowns. Analysis of historical data and wear trends helps determine the optimum service intervals for each vehicle.
Adapting to EPZs: the key role of fleet management
Low Emission Zones (LEZ) are geographical areas defined by local authorities where access is restricted to the most polluting vehicles. These zones aim to improve air quality by reducing emissions of pollutants such as fine particles and nitrogen oxides. For companies, implementing these zones represents a major challenge in terms of fleet management. However, with effective fleet management strategies, it is possible to adapt to these new regulations while optimizing operations.
Understanding EPZs
EPZs are being introduced in several major European cities, including Paris, London and Berlin, to limit the impact of polluting vehicles on air quality. Their aim is to reduce emissions of atmospheric pollutants by 20% to 40% by 2030.
The criteria for accessing the EPZs vary from city to city, but are generally based on the vehicle's Euro standard, which classifies vehicles according to their emission levels. In France, for example, the Crit'Air system is used to classify vehicles according to their level of pollution, with stickers ranging from 0 (zero emissions) to 5 (very polluting).
Also read → EPZs for businesses: what changes?
What role does Fleet Management play in adapting to EPZs?
Fleet managers first need to understand the specific LEZ regulations in the areas where their vehicles operate. This means keeping abreast of updates and changes in legislation.
One of the most effective strategies is to upgrade the fleet with vehicles that comply with EPZ standards. This includes the acquisition of electric or hybrid vehicles, which are often exempt from the restrictions. Companies that have replaced at least 50% of their fleet with low-emission vehicles have seen a 25% reduction in operating costs.
The example of Paris
Paris is a notable example of EPZ implementation. Since the introduction of the EPZ in 2017, the city has seen a 10% reduction in NO2 levels in the zones concerned. Companies operating in Paris have had to adapt their fleets to remain compliant. La Poste has replaced a large part of its fleet with electric vehicles and uses management software to optimize routes and minimize travel in critical areas.
Conclusion
Optimizing fleet management therefore requires the strategic use of data to reduce costs, comply with environmental regulations and promote eco-responsible driving. By integrating electric vehicles, adopting preventive maintenance, and adapting to Low Emission Zones, companies can not only improve their operational performance but also reinforce their commitment to the environment. Finally, thanks to fleet management solutions, companies are better equipped to face current and future challenges, while responding to growing consumer expectations for sustainable and responsible practices.
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