Top 10 Fleet Sustainability Stories in 2023

As fleet managers within the public sector increasingly prioritize sustainability, we explore the dynamic trends influencing the design and specifications of sustainable fleets. 

Join us as we explore how fleets around the country are working toward sustainable fleet management. Discover how companies are celebrating milestones, integrating electric vehicles into their fleets, and unveiling new products designed to minimize environmental impact.

2023's Top Sustainability News

1. Helping Build A Sustainable Community, One Vehicle At A Time

In this brave new world we are living in, there is more and more talk about the sustainability of fleet. But before we can talk and have an effective program, we have to understand what sustainability is in the fleet industry.

Sustainable goals are often written off as too expensive for municipal fleets by leadership. Even more, most governments are creatures of habit, we have done it this way for 20-30 years. Why change?

2. Innovation and Sustainability in Action with the 2023 No. 1 Leading Small Fleet

A significant achievement within DuPage’s fleet operations involved the activation of solar arrays on the facility building, generating an estimated surplus of 110% of the power requirements. Complementing this initiative, the installation of two solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations on the premises marked a pivotal step towards sustainability.

These stations seamlessly integrate with the solar arrays, reflecting the organization's commitment to green energy practices. As part of this transformation, the fleet welcomed the incorporation of two all-electric Ford E-Transit cargo vans, signifying the introduction of work truck EVs to the fleet. 

3. The Electrification Push: Implementing Green Policies & Switching to EVs

Fleet electrification has surged in popularity from new laws and regulations popping up throughout the U.S. 

A lot of this can be traced back to President Biden’s goal in 2021 to reduce emissions by around 50% from 2005 levels by 2030. And since then, the laws and goals have been trickling down from state governments to city governments throughout America.

As a result, in government fleets, there is a rise in adopting electric vehicles to comply with these regulations and reduce their carbon footprint.

4. Small Steps Toward Big Impacts with Emissions Tracking

Adding zero-emission vehicles, like electric vehicles, to the fleet is a sustainability win. Although these vehicles don’t have tailpipe emissions, there are still emissions related to producing the electricity used to charge them.

Fleets seeking to track these emissions can track total electricity usage (in kWh) for their electrified vehicles, then calculate the indirect upstream emissions from the power generation for their specific eGRID subregion.

5. Building a Solid Fleet Management Strategy for the Future

Change is an inevitable part of the fleet management journey. Whether that happens through the decision of management or a shifting industry evolution, fleets need to be able to find ways to meet goals and succeed. No matter where a fleet manager is in the timeline of their fleet, understanding how to implement positive change is a necessity. 

So what areas should fleets be focused on to ensure a positive outcome for the municipality it’s set within?

6. Breaking Down the Basics: 10 Things to Know About Renewable Fuel

Renewable fuels, such as biodiesel, ethanol, and hydrogen, offer a lower carbon footprint and can aid governments in meeting their sustainability goals.

If you’re looking to dive into the world of using renewable fuel, there’s a lot to learn. Adopting the use of renewable fuels is one step many fleet managers are taking toward sustainability. In this article, we share 10 things you need to know before taking the leap toward greener fuel.

7. How Embracing Change Can Drive Your Fleet Operations Forward

Change is never easy, but it is inevitable. That’s especially true in public fleet, where external factors and new technology heavily affect operations. It’s important to embrace change to keep your department running smoothly.

That’s what David Fint, administrative branch manager for the Kentucky state office of fleet management has done. When Government Fleet asked him the most exciting thing happening in fleet right now, his response was simply, “change.”

8. A Strategic Roadmap to Achieve a 100% Alternative Fuel Fleet by 2035

In an era marked by profound changes in transportation, the shift towards alternative fuel vehicles within the public sector is driven by more than just environmental consciousness — it's guided by a transforming regulatory landscape.

Robust emissions standards and a growing emphasis on reducing the carbon footprint have prompted governmental bodies to institute policies favoring the adoption of AFVs.

9. Checking All the Boxes for an EV Future

Whether your fleet is already in the middle of a transition to electric vehicles (EVs) or in the beginning stages, there are always questions that need answering. From the type of vehicle to the amount of infrastructure that needs to take place to accommodate chargers, it's key to check off certain boxes to ensure a smooth operation.

So where do you start and what do you need to do in order to be successful? 

10. Tackling Fleet Upgrades and Additions

The city of West Palm Beach, Florida has been taking a rigorous approach upgrading and adding to the city’s fleet. This was spurred on after witnessing the tremendous growth, economic development, and an influx of people and businesses relocating to the area, especially over the last couple of years.

Part of planning for that future means collaboration with the sustainability department, Public Works and Engineering teams, as well as engaging our local power companies to look at the most practical ways to upgrade the infrastructure and develop an electrification road map.