Retail delivery fleets may cover fewer miles per driver than other sectors, but the vehicles themselves are working far harder. New analysis from Lightfoot shows retail vehicles average 25,362 miles per year, more than 2.5 times the mileage of typical non-retail fleet vehicles.
The difference comes from multi-driver usage and constant stop-start driving, with retail vans averaging just 16 miles per hour during long operating days. That places significant strain on components such as clutches, brakes and gearboxes, while also increasing fuel or energy use.
Retail fleets recorded one harsh driving event every three miles, compared with one every 4.5 miles across other sectors.
Five ways fleets manage high-pressure delivery operations
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Driver coaching technology
Tools such as Lightfoot and Geotab help reduce harsh braking, speeding and inefficient driving. -
AI dashcams and video telematics
Systems from providers like Samsara help identify risky driving and improve safety. -
Route optimisation software
Platforms such as Optimize reduce unnecessary mileage and congestion delays. -
Fleet telematics monitoring
Services like MICHELIN Connected Fleet help operators track vehicle health and utilisation. -
Proactive SMR and tyre management
Maintenance partners including Kwik Fit Fleet help reduce downtime through preventative servicing.
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