In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, it’s no surprise that the Commercial Fleet Industry is rethinking its safety features for the future. 

But as with all good things, the process is slow and as steady as the turtle who wins the race. As much as manufacturers might begin to improve fleet vehicle safety technology, there are impactful logistics to keep in mind and plenty of concerns when making changes to a fleet, usually due to time, cost, and even resistance to the unfamiliar.

The Unknown Evolution

Few are aware that most of the safety tech in consumer automotive is readily available to utilize in commercial applications. Backup cameras and rear sensor systems are relatively common now; still, there are solutions like blind spot detection and front proximity sensors that are rarely used or discussed.

It’s not much of a surprise. Fleet owners themselves have lists of things to stay on top of when managing their fleets, adding assets as needed while still trying to keep all vehicles uniform and consistent. It’s no wonder the commercial vehicle safety evolution has taken time to gather momentum.

Now, thought leaders have kickstarted the endeavor, implementing safety technologies such as Voyager’s AIO solution. And as fleet owners become more aware of updated safety equipment, manufacturers will only have a stronger pull toward the new safety technology.

Trampling Roadblocks

For vehicle manufacturers, the sheer cost impact of adding additional equipment to both new and existing vehicles in a fleet is enough to discourage the manufacturers from upgrading safety technology.

Isn’t it easier to keep the same vehicle that’s been built the same way for years? Yes. But is easier always the answer?

Granted, revamping commercial vehicle safety could be a slow process. Still, with enough research, time, and resources allocated to the commercial fleet’s future, a safer vehicle could pay off in multiple ways in the long run. A commercial fleet is an investment, and safety equipment will only help protect and preserve that investment (vehicles and drivers alike).

In addition, there are efficiency and feature gains that can be incorporated by advancing product solutions. Compare the safety solutions offered in today’s consumer automotive products to those produced five to ten years ago. They are vastly different. Proximity sensors, blind spot detection, and 360 cameras are standard practices. The advancement of the product solutions offered in modern vehicles illustrates the need to continue that same trend as it applies to Commercial Vehicles.

Although it means more work for manufacturers to incorporate new or redeveloped solutions, product development teams and engineers, like those with AIO, are prepared to walk fleet owners through every step. The results will pay continuous dividends over the life span of the vehicle.

A Safer Commercial Fleet Universe

In three to five years, a backup camera or sensor system will predictably not be the best or only solution to be deployed. With a generation accustomed to smart cars with backup cameras, new drivers will find commercial vehicles without safety features foreign and uncomfortable.

Equipping work vehicles with these advantages will open hiring opportunities, mediate damage costs, and provide peace of mind to drivers and owners alike.

Although improving commercial fleet safety technology is not an easy or fast evolution, it is an inevitable one. 

This article is sponsored by ASA Electronics.