Welcome to January’s WEX Fleet Dispatch newsletter … available only on LinkedIn!

WEX is excited to roll out more Fleet Dispatch content in a new format for its LinkedIn followers. Each month, you’re informed right on this platform on the latest trends around small business vehicle management.?

If you like what you’re reading, subscribe to the Fleet Dispatch blog for more!

Prevent fuel card fraud with these three simple tips

Fuel card fraud presents a significant challenge for fleet managers from both internal and external threats, such as credit card skimmers or misuse by employees. In this article, we share what tools help businesses address the issue of fraud including ClearView Analytics & Reporting and Telematics & GPS Fleet Tracking. These technologies, when strategically implemented, help build trust and empower drivers to become your allies in fraud prevention.

Read the full article for three key tips for fleet managers:

• Assume the best of your drivers: Approach anomalies in spending as potential mistakes, not intentional fraud, maintaining driver trust.
• Empower drivers with insider knowledge: Educate drivers about how fraud affects everyone, the role of analytics, and the purpose of telematics and GPS tracking.
• Train drivers on identifying fraud: Inform drivers about common fraud types like skimming, stolen card/data, siphoning, misuse, slippage, and overfilling.

Additionally, the article underscores the importance of preparing employees for the increasing threat of cyber-attacks, including synthetic identity fraud. With an emphasis on the significance of reviewing data security practices and partnering with a fleet card company that provides excellent customer service and protection, this article will help set you on a path to reduced fraud for your business.

Check out the full article to learn more.

Converting to electric vehicles: 7 key opportunities for fleet owners

By Jay Collins

Transitioning to electric vehicle (EV) fleets is a key step towards sustainable business practices. However, this shift involves a significant learning curve and requires understanding the nuances of operating EVs.

This article emphasizes the rising trend in EV adoption, with Goldman Sachs Research projecting EVs to account for half of global car sales by 2035. A plan for how to integrate EVs into fleets is top of mind for businesses, and in this article we provide some guidance for those at the beginning of that journey.?

Key points include:

• Phased transition plan: A smooth transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to EVs is crucial for long-term benefits.
• Charging infrastructure planning: A thoughtful charging plan, including station location and type, is essential for efficient fleet operation.
• Infrastructure to support EVs: Determining the most practical charging options based on vehicle idle locations is critical.
• Supporting EV charging: Understanding the feasibility of home or depot charging and the required infrastructure is necessary.
• Optimizing charging setup: Choosing the right charger (Level 1, 2, or 3) based on fleet needs and vehicle usage.
• Reimbursement planning: Developing a clear process for reimbursing EV charging, especially for home charging.
• Trusted EV adoption partner: Working with knowledgeable consultants for vehicle selection and charging infrastructure setup.

Electric fleets not only reduce operational costs but also significantly lower your business’s carbon footprint. With the correct approach and expert guidance, businesses can effectively transition to EV fleets, contributing to environmental sustainability and future-proofing their operations.

To learn more, check out the full article.

Check out the CNBC segment, WEX CEO on the digital payment ecosystem and global business sentiment, to hear from Melissa Smith, Chair, CEO, and President of WEX, on software, payments, and the economy's impact on transportation.

Dash cameras: Fleet management tools improving driver efficiency and safety

In this article we cover dash cameras, which are equipped with advanced software, and are a useful tool for fleet management, improving driver efficiency and safety. They record continuously but alert fleet managers only during critical events, focusing on significant insights to protect drivers and vehicles. These cameras, by tracking driver behavior, help surface driver tendencies thereby reducing accidents, which are 87% due to avoidable errors.

When integrated with telematics systems, dash cameras detect risky behaviors, and provide more evidence and insights into how to make improvements to daily operations. This integration allows for a review of video footage of critical events and provides insight for detecting distracted driving, thereby improving safety and potentially avoiding accidents.

Dash cameras also support driver coaching through real-time audio alerts and positive reinforcement. This leads to better performance and can result in insurance savings due to reduced accident risks. Businesses using dashcams with driver feedback have seen an 86% reduction in crash costs.

For drivers, dash cameras provide evidence in accidents, protecting against insurance fraud and holding the correct party accountable. They encourage safe driving practices and allow monitoring and improvement through driver scorecards.

Choosing the right dash camera involves evaluating various market options, considering integration with existing telematics solutions, and consulting trusted fleet partners. WEX, as a fleet partner, offers expertise in fleet cards, telematics, and dash cameras, emphasizing customer support and comprehensive solutions. Their approach helps businesses make informed decisions, ensuring effective fleet management and maximizing return on investment. Read more here.

Read the full article here.

How to manage your commercial vehicles like a fleet manager

In this article, small business owners are encouraged to adopt a strategic approach to managing their commercial vehicles effectively, akin to a professional fleet manager. The article highlights the importance of fleet management, including vehicle maintenance, route optimization, and cost efficiency, essential for operational success.

Key points include the significance of understanding the needs of your commercial vehicle fleet, where an inventory of vehicles and their functions is crucial. Effective fleet maintenance is emphasized, suggesting regular check-ups and record-keeping. The article also stresses the importance of leveraging technology, such as GPS tracking and telematics systems, to optimize routes, reduce fuel costs, and improve driver accountability.

For businesses looking to scale their fleet management as they grow, the article advises on forecasting future demands and leveraging partnerships. Read more here.

Learn more here.