A Q&A with Santa, and Fleet Manager Mrs Claus, of North Pole Inc
Features Every Fleet Vehicle Needs
Setting out on the open road for an extended period of time can prove to be a daunting task. Whether its external forces like inclement weather, road hazards and traffic, or internal necessities like food, rest and comfort, drivers have found certain items that they need to assist them on any road trip. Fleet companies and drivers have come to recognize these tools as an integral and increasingly important to a driver’s work environment.
Gerry McCaffrey, the National Fleet Operations Manager at Citroën, has worked with the company for over 15 years and says he understands the specific needs that drivers have.
“[D]rivers are enjoying creature comforts, such as the specifications that they enjoy in their vehicles,” McCaffrey said. “There is more recognition now that a van driver spends the majority of his working day in his van. There is becoming more demand for features that accommodate the driver.”
Once considered luxuries, items such as air conditioning and enhanced navigational guidance have become necessities for fleet companies and their drivers.
Top 10 Features in a Fleet Vehicle
10. Air Conditioning
Being in a fleet vehicle all day can make any cabin quite hot and stuffy. That’s why this amenity is indispensable for any driver. Wake up with a cold splash of air or fight the hot summer temperature by cranking up the air conditioner whenever you need it!
9. Ideally Positioned Cup Holders
Every fleet driver knows the importance of a cup of coffee in the morning and a refreshing drink in the afternoon. A secure, well-positioned cup holder is essential for drivers so they can keep their hands on the wheel and avoid any nasty spills.
8. Ample Storage
Keep everything organized with storage space that allows for a tidy vehicle. By having a place for parking passes, sunglasses, loose change and an assortment of other items, drivers will always know where everything is without cluttering up their passenger seat.
7. Multiple Power Points
Anyone who spends hours in their car all day knows the importance of being able to charge their electronics, and multiple power outlets allows for everything to be up and running. Keep the juice on your cell phone, MP3 player, laptop, GPS and everything else running all day with easily accessible power points.
6. Hands-free and Voice-activated Phone Ability
Many states have outlawed drivers from using cell phones while on the road. Having a hands-free device allows a driver to stay connected while staying safe with both hands on the wheel.
5. Comfortable Seats
Height, depth, lumbar support and an ability to move the car seat back or forward is essential for every driver. This need is multiplied for fleet drivers who spend the majority of the day in their captain’s chair.
4. Auxiliary Hook Up
Skip the endless commercials and stop fumbling through an unorganized CD collection by connecting an iPhone or MP3 player directly to the stereo. This allows drivers to listen to their favorite music, comedy specials or podcasts without having to constantly scramble to find something to entertain them while driving.
3. Steering Wheel Stereo Controls
But when you want to crank up the sound or adjust the audio levels, there’s nothing better than mounted controls on the steering wheel. This allows the driver to keep both hands on the wheel and stay focused on the task at hand.
2. Keyless Entry
Much like the other luxuries on this list, a keyless entry system has essentially become standard. Unlock your car with ease and stay safe in unfamiliar areas with this necessary device.
1. GPS Navigation
Global Positioning Software has become the most indispensable tool for any driver and fleet management company.
“It’s evidence of how technology is playing an increasingly important part of how companies run their fleets,” McCaffrey added. “In addition, it can drive efficiency and savings for the drivers in that environment.”