Discussing the future of fleet management: Insights from Fleet Europe Summit 2023

Every industry has its signature events, and for the world of fleet management, Fleet Europe Summit is undoubtedly one of them. This premier annual gathering in Europe brings together key stakeholders - from leasing companies and OVMs to fleet managers and solution providers. This year's conference, with its focus on electric vehicles and a special initiative spotlighting the role of women in the industry, was particularly noteworthy. Here's a closer look at the Summit and some of its highlights.

An inside look at Fleet Europe Summit 2023

For those unfamiliar with the Fleet Europe Summit, it's an annual fleet and mobility event that takes place in different locations each year. Last year, we found ourselves in Dublin, this year took us to the vibrant city of Lisbon, and next year, we are looking forward to gathering in Milan. The Summit typically begins at 9 am and runs until 5 pm, with a variety of sessions throughout the day. One of the standout moments from this year was the closing panel discussion featuring executives from leading leasing companies; it's not often you get to see such high-profile figures sit down together and candidly discuss the market.

The Summit also saw its much-anticipated Fleet Awards Ceremony on Thursday evening. There are six categories, each awarded to fleet managers who have demonstrated outstanding performance. These awards, determined by a jury, are taken very seriously, and this unique recognition is something that sets the Fleet Europe Summit apart from other conferences.

In between sessions, attendees can connect with other participants at designated meeting points or through the event's mobile app. This app is a fantastic tool for networking: not only can you send messages to fellow attendees, but you can also book meeting points for face-to-face discussions. From our experience, it’s a very user-friendly app, with people actively using it and promptly responding to messages. The seamless blend of technology and personal interaction at the Summit truly enhances the overall experience.

Why Fleet Europe Summit is a must-attend for industry professionals

If you are wondering why Fleet Europe Summit should be on your calendar, it's simple: it's the premier gathering place for anyone and everyone in the industry. Leasing companies, OVMs, fleet managers, solution providers - you name it, they are there. It's the most significant event of its kind in Europe, and any stakeholder you might want to connect with is likely in attendance.

This year, the Summit was particularly relevant for us at Volteum for several reasons. First of all, this year’s central focus was definitely on electric vehicles and fleet electrification which reflected the industry's shift towards sustainable mobility solutions and resonated closely with our mission and offerings. What is more, our CEO had the honour of participating in a special initiative, 'Inspiring Women in Fleet', which celebrated female leaders from leasing companies and fleet management. This was an important recognition of the crucial role women play in our industry.

But the Summit is not just about the talks and presentations - it's a hotspot for networking and business development. There's always a lot going on, from stand visits (although having a stand isn't a necessity) to networking activities and dynamic presentations. The Summit is a hive of activity, making it an invaluable opportunity for industry professionals to connect, learn, and drive the future of fleet management.

Key takeaways from Fleet Europe Summit 2023

There were numerous highlights from the Fleet Europe Summit sessions that deserve a special mention. These were the ones that we found among the most exciting:

• In one of the standout sessions decision makers from prominent fleets shared their ambitious plans to cut vehicle emissions and reach net zero carbon emissions before their respective deadlines.
• In another impactful session, fleet managers discussed how the pursuit of net zero emissions is influencing procurement strategies. The focus is not only on finding vehicle manufacturers who can supply cost-effective vehicles but also on establishing a comprehensive sustainability ecosystem.
• Another exciting development came from BYD, a market leader in China's EV market, with the announcement of its plans to expand into the European fleet sector. The company, which has already sold 6 million BEVs, is targeting further growth.
• The Smart Mobility Institute (SMI) focused on reimagining mobility. The discussion revolved around transitioning from traditional company benefits to sustainable solutions, a theme that's instrumental to the future of the mobility industry.
• Last but not least, we have already mentioned the closing panel discussion. The leadership of Alphabet, Athlon, Arval, Ayvens, and Leasys addressed several pressing questions during their session, such as the number of prominent leasing companies in the future and how these companies can support fleet customers in achieving net zero emissions. The common sentiment was clear: faster electrification calls for more affordable EVs.

Conclusion

In summary, the Fleet Europe Summit was a huge success, providing a platform for industry leaders to share insights, discuss challenges, and envision the future of fleet management. From revealing ambitious decarbonisation strategies to exploring the fundamental shift in procurement processes, the Summit was a vibrant platform for learning and networking. As we look forward to the next Summit, one thing is clear: the fleet management industry is on a thrilling trajectory, and Fleet Europe Summit remains an invaluable resource for those keen to stay ahead of the curve.