Most fleet industry professionals still grapple with understanding what AI truly means for their operations—and many are uncertain if it’s worth their time or just industry hype. Bobit Business Media CEO Colin Sutherland and fleet analyst Susan Beardsley cut through the fog to reveal concrete, actionable insights on how AI is transforming fleet management in 2026 — and what’s just marketing fluff. If you're trying to navigate AI’s real role in fleet today and future-proof your business, this episode is your essential compass.

Discover how AI is actually being deployed in fleets, not just marketed, including practical use cases and emerging risks. Colin and Susan explore the evolving landscape—from AI safety and predictive maintenance to the future of dashboards and data ownership—revealing what tools are making a measurable difference now, and what’s coming next. You'll learn about the distinctions between machine learning, generative AI, and automation, empowering you to make smarter tech decisions in a complex vendor ecosystem.

We break down how AI impacts every level of fleet operations—drivers, managers, suppliers, and industry leaders alike—and why understanding this evolution is critical to maintaining your competitive edge. With a focus on small to medium fleets, the episode highlights how accessible, open-source, and adaptable AI solutions truly are, contrasted with the hype and vendor 'wash.'

This conversation is essential for fleet managers, decision-makers, and suppliers who want to avoid being left behind. We’re at a pivotal moment—where the right AI strategies can drastically reduce costs, improve safety, and even redefine career paths. But ignoring the shifts risks obsolescence in an industry that’s on the brink of transformation.

Get ready to demystify AI, bridge communication gaps, and set your fleet on a smarter, more resilient path. Whether you're crafting RFPs, managing day-to-day operations, or planning long-term growth, this episode gives you the clarity you need to lead confidently into the future.

Susan Beardsley, a veteran fleet researcher with over 12 years of experience, offers a grounded, evidence-based perspective. Her insights, combined with Colin’s deep industry expertise, create a clear roadmap for how AI is shaping fleet now—and how you can harness it to stay ahead.

Perfect for fleet professionals, tech providers, and industry leaders who aim to understand AI’s real impact and avoid being sold hype. This is your blueprint for making informed, strategic decisions in an industry that’s rapidly evolving.

Is your fleet ready for what’s next? Register for the NextGen Fleet Road Show, presented by AT&T and Geotab. We’re bringing live demos and expert consultations to a city near you.  

Register today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠nextgenfleet.events/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠

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