How AI and Automation Are Transforming Fleet Management
Organizations using AI in transportation have shown us that the future of fleets is already here. At TAG’s Connected Fleet event, industry leaders shared bold insights on AI-driven diagnostics, autonomous vehicles, and the evolving workforce. Discover key takeaways shaping tomorrow’s logistics.
The future of fleet management is accelerating toward us, so Sparq was honored to sponsor TAG’s Connected Fleet: The Future of Transportation Technology and Logistics Optimization event. Industry leaders explored how AI in transportation and autonomous vehicles are reshaping the industry.
Panelists included:
- Lawrence Bader, Principal of Advanced Transportation Technology, retired UPS Director of Global Fleet Systems
- Vivaldo Junior, VP of Technology at Michelin Connected Fleet
- Vadim Ratokhin, VP of Information Technology at UPS
- Russ Wilson, Director of Software Engineering at RXO
Here are the most important takeaways:
1. Looking Ahead
Autonomous trucking is coming, paired with real-time “F1-style” diagnostics and AI at scale. Predictive AI will soon resolve maintenance issues before they trigger fault codes, learning continuously to increase precision and prevent costly disruptions.
2. Connected Vehicles
Advanced telematics are delivering tangible ROI:
- Tire monitoring prevents unnecessary repairs and breakdowns.
- Brake and wheel-end health monitoring boosts safety.
- AI-enabled cameras reduce accidents and reward safe driving behaviors.
3. Preventing Fraud and Theft
Cargo theft, fraud, and spoofing remain major threats. Panelists emphasized the need for stronger cross-industry partnerships, better data integration, and tools like encrypted digital keys to protect fleets.
4. Interoperability & Standardization
Despite innovation, many fleets still lean on outdated systems like EDI. Lack of IoT standardization slows progress. Collaboration between OEMs and technology providers is critical to adoption.
5. Automation & the Workforce
Automation, from autonomous vehicles to bots in warehouses, is improving safety and efficiency. But it also demands a new kind of workforce: developers and other teams who design with a product mindset, working closely with end users to eliminate friction and deliver measurable business value.
The Bottom Line
AI in transportation and autonomous vehicles are no longer “what ifs,” they’re active forces transforming fleet operations. Those who embrace these technologies will gain the strategic edge to lead in efficiency, safety, and innovation.