What is the size and makeup of your fleet?
The fleet currently comprises of 79 vehicles. This includes 57 LGVs including one 27t 100% electric RCV, 17 vans (including three electric vans) plus three tractors and two excavators, and multiple pieces of plant.
How many depots and workshops do you have?
The service has two sites, one HQ and one operation depot, which is where I am based along with the fleet. All workshop services are outsourced but fleet management is done in house.
What are the main services you deliver to the public?
The main services are suppling a safe, tidy and compliant fleet which also includes fleet management, engineering, procurement and supply of hire vehicles to the service.
What trends and developments have you seen over the last couple of years?
There have been so many; maximum payload and fleet reliability has improved. However, the main development is electrification of the fleet and looking for the next sustainable way of running our fleet effectively, and finding better ways to recycle redundant equipment.
What are your main drivers as a fleet manager?
My main drivers are delivering a well maintained, compliant fleet for use every day. Also, it is ordering and delivering the latest and sustainable technology to the service, the end users, and drivers to make their working environment and day easier. It is also about finding sustainable ways to operate the fleet to preserve the environment.
What role does sustainability play in your operation?
Sustainability has a huge role, from keeping an eye on the industry for new developments in alternative fuel vehicles to developments in diesel/HVO/GTL technology to clean up the emissions on our existing fleet. Also, important is the active use of technology and feedback loops to improve driver behaviour and reduce emissions.
How do you see municipal fleet management changing over the next 10 years?
I see the future as investigating and implementing alternative fuel sources, such as electric and hydrogen, and guiding the service towards the correct fleet to carry out our services. It will also be about bringing in training and reassurance to drivers, engineers and end users. It is all about fleet management but also changing hearts and minds, not only within the service but also to the outside world who are watching with interest at possible developments for their own fleets.
