By Dan Belknap, Vice President of Product Management, Wheels
September 19, 2024
Dan Belknap
“Think different” is a slogan for a very famous company that I often use as a mantra in my professional and personal life. How do I take a tried-and-true approach and make it even better? I see the spirit of this philosophy woven into the thoughtful and creative experiences that Wheels strives to bring to our clients.
As fleet professionals, we are constantly being challenged to come up with new ways to simplify complex processes, control costs, boost employee satisfaction and productivity, keep our drivers and roads safe and reduce our environmental footprints. I know you know – the list goes on. It’s all about working toward business success – finding ways to power your potential.
So, is there a smarter way to manage your fleet and tackle everything on that list? Thanks to the advent of digital fleet technologies transforming traditional fleet management services and transport systems, companies are adopting innovative transportation solutions, often described as ‘multi-modality.’
What is multi-modality?
Multi-modal fleet management is the strategic integration of various transportation modes to meet a diverse set of business needs. Instead of relying on a single modality type of fleet vehicle or transportation method, multi-modal solutions incorporate a variety of options such as:
- Company-owned vehicles: Traditional fleet vehicles owned and maintained by the company.
- Employee-owned vehicles: Fixed and variable based reimbursement programs.
- Long-term or short-term rentals: Flexible options for temporary or seasonal transportation needs.
- Ride-hailing services: On-demand transportation services like Uber.
- Public transportation: Utilizing buses, trains, and other public transit options.
- Micro-mobility solutions: Including bicycles, scooters, and other small-scale transportation for short distances and urban environments.
- Pool vehicles: Access to vehicle-sharing services that provide flexible and cost-effective transportation.
- Mobility stipend: A flat amount provided to an employee to cover monthly transportation costs.
A multi-modality approach goes beyond simply getting people from point A to point B. It’s about rethinking the journey, questioning the purpose, and deciding the best means of transport. The goal is to use the right vehicle for the right task, tailored to specific operational needs. By leveraging the strengths of each mode, businesses can tailor their fleet mobility strategies to meet their operational goals.
Businesses are also under increasing pressure to showcase their commitment to sustainability and employee well-being. Customers and stakeholders value eco-friendly practices and innovative solutions that prioritize the environment and community. And employees appreciate transportation options that are convenient and considerate of their time, reflecting a company’s dedication to their overall experience and job satisfaction.
Real-World Applications
Imagine a scenario where employees no longer default to rental vehicles when fleet vehicles are under maintenance. Instead, they might opt for services like Uber or pool vehicles, which can be more cost-effective and convenient. This approach reduces downtime and offers greater flexibility.
In urban environments where parking is a challenge, employees can utilize ride-hailing services instead of dedicated fleet vehicles. For our clients – specifically a large insurance company and a top pharmaceutical firm, these innovative mobility services can significantly improve operational efficiency and employee satisfaction.
Consider a startup biotech company waiting for FDA approval of a new product needing to attract and hire top notch sales executives. Reimbursement is a fast and flexible way for companies to provide their employees with the benefit of company transportation support as they progress through the stages of growth.
Looking Forward: Our Multi-Modality Vision
Choice is the trend. The evolving nature of fleet management highlights a broader understanding of mobility. Supplementing a traditional leasing program with a vehicle reimbursement program is becoming more prevalent, and while not yet a mainstream approach, the topic of offering a mobility stipend is not off the table during ideation sessions.
Having a range of options to use for your mobile workforce represents a significant evolution in fleet management. Wheels’ offers a variety of multi-modal transportation solutions beyond traditional leased vehicles. These options range from Uber for Business and reimbursement to company-provided vehicles and rentals, all integrated into a flexible, client-specific strategy with consolidated, centralized billing. Together, we can ensure your vision becomes a reality.
