As the sector faces a period of significant transformation, vehicle fleet operators must stay alert to the evolving risks and opportunities that will shape the industry in 2026 and beyond.
Rising costs and inflation
Inflationary pressures mean businesses are grappling with escalating costs, from vehicle repairs to replacement parts and labour. Inflation is also driving up insurance premiums, with this trend is expected to continue into 2026. For fleet operators, this means budgeting for higher insurance costs and seeking ways to manage risk proactively to keep premiums in check.
The shift to electric and connected vehicles
The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and increasingly connected car technologies present both opportunities and new complexities. While EVs can reduce long-term running costs and emissions, they often require specialist repairs, and the technology is still evolving. Connected vehicles, meanwhile, generate vast amounts of data, raising questions about data privacy, security, and how insurers use this information to assess risk.
Regulatory and environmental pressures
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are moving higher on the agenda for fleet operators. New regulations, particularly around sustainability and emissions, are driving change across the sector. Fleet operators should expect to place more emphasis on sustainable practices and may benefit from adopting greener vehicles and transparent ESG reporting.
Supply chain disruptions and parts shortages
Ongoing disruptions in the global supply chain are making it harder and more expensive to source parts and complete repairs. This can lead to longer vehicle downtime and increased operational costs for fleets. Building strong relationships with suppliers and maintaining flexibility in vehicle procurement strategies will be essential.
The rise of data-driven risk management
Insurers are increasingly using advanced analytics and telematics data to assess risk and set premiums. Fleet operators can use this to their advantage by investing in telematics solutions that monitor driver behaviour, vehicle health, and usage patterns. Proactive risk management not only helps keep insurance costs down but also improves overall fleet safety and efficiency.
Looking ahead
These challenges will directly impact fleet operators. By understanding the shifting landscape, embracing new technologies, and focusing on proactive risk management, fleet managers can position their operations for resilience and success.
The Motor Assist Solution Finder.
Every operation is different, and the pressures facing fleet managers are evolving fast.
That’s why our incident management solutions are built around your world – flexible, scalable and bespoke to your needs.
Our Solution Finder helps us understand your business in detail and precisely what you need from an incident management solution to stay ahead.
With the right partner by your side, you can design a tailored package that works the way you do.
Build your flexible incident management solution – for 2026 and beyond.
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First Notification of Loss (FNOL) Processing
Benefit from a 24/7/365 FNOL service and contact centre that’s fast, assured and cost effective.
Repair network
Gain access to an experienced and high-quality repair network that includes over 200 core Tier 1 fixed site repairers across the UK as well as fast-track pods at one-day repair sites.
Repair management
Our repair management network minimises downtime for your business while providing comprehensive cost and performance data for your use.
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Uninsured Loss Recovery (ULR)
Focus on the things that matter while Motor Assist™ proactively pursues payments on your behalf, ensuring the best possible service for repair and loss recovery.}
