Fleet leaders warn cost pressure and EV policy uncertainty are the defining issues for 2026

Decarbonisation, rising costs and the growing role of AI were all highlighted as major priorities for fleets at this year’s Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) Annual Conference.

Held at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, the event attracted more than 300 delegates, with AFP chair Paul Hollick warning that fleet operators are now balancing electrification targets alongside growing financial and operational pressure.

While electrification remains a key focus, the conversation appears to be shifting towards the practical realities of running EV fleets at scale. Cost control was repeatedly raised, particularly following recent fuel market volatility and continued uncertainty around EV taxation.

One issue drawing significant concern was the Government’s planned Electric Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED), due in 2028. Both the AFP and BVRLA warned it could increase costs and administration for fleets while potentially slowing EV adoption.

AI was another major talking point. AFP board director James Pestell argued the technology could help fleets better manage the huge amounts of data they already collect across vehicles, charging, maintenance and compliance.

The conference also highlighted growing concerns around future skills shortages, with the AFP increasing its focus on training, mentoring and attracting new talent into fleet management.

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