Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to reshape the fleet sector, with more than 70% of managers considering implementing the technology.

The research shows a massive shift in how fleets intend to manage vehicles and supply chains

A new joint study from telematics specialist Targa Telematics and the Connected Vehicle & Mobility Observatory of Politecnico di Milano School of Management reveals a massive shift in how companies intend to manage their vehicles and supply chains.

In a study dedicated to the Italian market, 73% of fleet managers said they are considering and currently assessing the implementation of AI-based solutions within their fleet management operations, while only 23% ruled out this possibility in the near future.

Predictive maintenance (38%), anomaly detection (24%), predictive analytics dashboards (19%) and consumption analysis and optimisation (14%) emerged as the most important areas for AI integration.

The research also examined vehicle users’ perceptions of the benefits of telematics, with 46% of respondents highlighting ease of use and 23% focusing on features such as operational support and assistance.

Michele Cipullo, go to market manager at Targa Telematics

Targa carried out the research for its Fleet Management Watch, which leverages analysis drawn from fleet and mobility managers participating in the Osservatorio Top Thousand and Osservatorio Top Hundred – permanent observatories established in Italy with the aim of monitoring key mobility themes.

Open to companies operating over 1,000 vehicles and up to 999 vehicles respectively, the observatories manage together nearly 60,000 vehicles across different types of fleets, including corporate, operational, commercial and field service fleets.

Michele Cipullo, go to market manager at Targa Telematics, said AI represents the main driver of evolution in fleet management, as it unlocks a truly proactive approach centred on early identification of potential issues and enhanced support to decision-making.

“Data from the Top Thousand and Top Hundred observatories confirms that the market is ready to fully embrace AI. We are no longer at the experimentation stage, but rather rapidly advancing along the adoption journey.”

Chris Horbowyj, UK commercial director, Targa Telematics.

Reflecting this growing trend, Chris Horbowyj, UK commercial director at Targa Telematics, added that AI is the next frontier in fleet management across every market, and the UK is no exception.

“From enhancing fuel efficiency – a crucial priority at a time of economic uncertainty – and optimising routes to improving driving behaviour and reducing incidents, AI is having a transformative impact on the sector.”

Horbowyj also spotlighted that vehicle misuse prevention is yet another area where AI has already left its mark.

“Recent research from Targa Telematics Observatory showed that recovery rates may exceed 90% for operators capable of harnessing Agentic AI.

“Indeed, AI has redefined our ability to leverage data and turn it into actionable insights that take performance, safety and sustainability standards to new heights,” he pointed out.