Half (50%) of UK businesses reliant on fleets have accelerated their transition to electric vehicles in the midst of record fuel prices.

61% of business leaders will increase their investment in sustainability measures in 2022

Research by global telematics specialist Samsara also found that UK business leaders are increasingly prioritising their commitment to decarbonisation, echoing industry-wide moves across the UK.

The survey, conducted among 1,500 operational leaders, found that 84% of those in industrial, manufacturing and logistics industries across the UK consider increasing environmental sustainability as a “high” or “crucial” priority.

And 61% will increase their investment in sustainability measures in 2022.

The full study, presented in a new 2022 State of Connected Operation Report, also shows four in 10 (38%) have already implemented a formal sustainability programme, while a further 59% plan to do so in 2022.

Key priorities for sustainability programmes over the next five years include:

• 81% plan to hire leadership personnel to drive forward sustainability initiatives
• 86% plan to invest more in technology to support more sustainable operations
• 89% will develop KPIs and quantitative performance targets for sustainability initiatives

Philip van der Wilt, VP & general manager, Samsara, EMEA, said the findings were “unequivocable” and reinforced how the industry is committed to embracing environmental sustainability, prompted by skyrocketing fuel prices and customer pressures.

“Business leaders are turning words into action, putting investment in EVs and environmental sustainability as priorities for 2022. Organisations are setting concrete goals and investing in technology to deliver more sustainable operations,” he added.

To access Samsara’s State of Connected Operations Report, which covers cars, trucks, lorries and commercial vans, click here.