Semiconductor shortages hit fleet vehicle supply
Almost a third of fleets (31%) have been hit by semiconductor shortages affecting their ability to acquire new cars and vans, according to new research from Arval Mobility Observatory.
The study shows 17% have been affected by supply issues across electric vehicle (EV), petrol and diesel vehicles, while 8% have seen an effect on EVs only and 7% just on petrol and diesel vehicles.
A range of actions have been undertaken by those impacted, with almost three-quarters (74%) extending the life cycle of current vehicles, more than half (51%) speeding up the implementation of EVs on their fleet, a quarter (25%) acquiring used vehicles rather than new, 21% adding a wider range manufacturers to choice lists and 11% turning to other forms of mobility.
Shaun Sadlier, Head of Arval Mobility Observatory in the UK, said the findings indicated “just how widespread the impact of new vehicle supply problems have been” on fleets over the last three years.
He said: “Out of those that report being affected, very nearly three out of four operators have extended replacement cycles, which may have a knock-on effect in ensuring cars and vans are kept in a safe and efficient condition. Older vehicles are unavoidably more prone to breakdown and need more attention in order to remain roadworthy, something that places demands on fleet managers and providers of service, maintenance and repair.
“Buying or leasing of used vehicles as a substitute for new is also a popular solution, as is extending choice lists in order to include manufacturers who can offer better supply. Where operators have been unable to obtain vehicles from their established sources, they have had to become more creative in order to source the cars and vans they need.
“Overall, it is not an exaggeration to say that the whole management of vehicle choice, acquisition and maintenance has been affected by these shortages, and fleets and their suppliers have had to do much to find new ways of both running existing vehicles for longer and identifying other means of supply. It’s brought about fundamental change.”
But Sadlier added an unexpected positive effect had been that more than half of fleets (51%) say supply issues have accelerated their EV transition.
“While there has been an increase in the average delivery time for all fuel types, the lag for EVs has been significantly less with many manufacturers choosing to concentrate production on this type of vehicle.”
Image of Shaun Sadlier
