2025 was not a year of small adjustments for work truck fleets. It was a year that reshaped how fleets spend, plan, maintain, power, and protect their vehicles.
In this video, Work Truck breaks down the biggest shifts that defined fleet operations in 2025 and explains how they all connect. From rising costs and uptime pressure to the growing role of data, safety, energy strategy, and workforce challenges, these trends changed how fleet leaders make decisions every day.
The video explores:
For fleet managers building their 2026 strategy, this video connects the dots across the trends that mattered most. Each topic is expanded further in the 2025 Work Truck Trends series, featuring deeper insights and real-world examples from fleet leaders across the industry.
Use this recap as a starting point and a reference as you plan what’s next.
Used truck values are settling into new patterns, driver pay models are getting a much-needed reality check, fleets are gearing up for holiday theft season, and a fresh wave of momentum is across the industry. Here’s everything you missed in the work truck industry lately:This month’s Truck Chat Recap covers:📈 Remarketing in 2025: stabilization trends, soft spots, and smarter timing for your replacements💸 When flat-rate mileage pay goes sideways and how fleets are fixing pay gaps that hit their hardest-working drivers🎄 Holiday theft readiness: the tools, vehicles, and patterns thieves target most — and the simple steps fleets can take now🔧 Building tomorrow’s techs: propane autogas training grants open for students🏆 Work Truck Awards: voting is officially live for Medium-Duty Truck of the Year, Commercial Van of the Year, and Upfit Package of the Year🎥 Video Spotlights• A behind-the-scenes look at Team Fletcher’s Corporate Soap Box Derby challenge benefiting The Hourglass Foundation• AI coaching with a human touch• How to set up a service crane safely and efficiently• A smarter upfitting approach and new insights on the technician shortagePlus quick hits and top headlines you’ll want on your radar.If this helped you get ahead this month, tap that like button, subscribe, and share it with your fleet crew. Let’s keep your fleet rolling and ready for whatever’s next.#TruckChat #WorkTruck #FleetManagement #FleetNews #FleetSafety #TruckPros #WorkTruckOnlineThis episode is sponsored by Chevron: https://www.regi.com/
Amy McAdams shares how growing up around racing influenced her leadership style, why saying yes to unexpected opportunities changed her career direction, and how she learned to thrive through everything from corporate shifts to vendor changes.
In this episode of Fleet Legends, sponsored by Legend Fleet, we sit down with McAdams, whose fleet story quite literally started in the engine compartment of her dad’s ’57 Chevy stock car.
Hosted by Lauren Fletcher, your fleet industry storyteller, this episode follows McAdams’s path from a childhood spent holding wrenches at the track to becoming a “baby fleet manager,” navigating a career shaped by grit, timing, and a whole lot of learn-as-you-go moments.
Watch now and find out more about:
Drop your favorite takeaway from McAdams in the comments, and tell us who you want to see on Fleet Legends next!
Learn More: Oleg Cytowicz on People, Process, and Perspective in Fleet
Change is a constant in fleet, whether it’s electrification, new tech, or safety initiatives. But even the best plans can fail if the people behind them aren’t ready.
Recorded live from the Fleet Forward Conference, this Work Truck session features behavioral scientist Dr. Alison Betz and fleet expert Matt Betz, who share a practical framework for leading real transformation.
Learn how to build buy-in, boost confidence, and reinforce new behaviors so change doesn’t just happen, it sticks.
Want more? Visit Work Truck today!
Used truck values settling, quake-proofing your shop, an AI-first push to keep trucks rolling, and a daylight saving safety tune-up, here’s what you missed in October 2025.This month’s Truck Chat Recap covers:🏁 Derby challenge for a cause: Team Fletcher, sponsorships, and how to get involved in the @InternationalSoapBoxDerby! 📊 Remarketing in 2025: steadier values, intentional cycling, and timing your listings🏗 Quake-ready facilities: roof-to-wall connections, bracing, and targeted retrofits that reduce downtime🤖 AI for uptime: VMS’s next chapter and what enterprise-grade visibility could mean for small fleets and dealers⏰ Daylight saving safety: dusk driving refreshers, lighting checks, ADAS verifications, and fatigue watch🎥 Video Spotlights: A career milestone with the Lifecycle Award, people-first leadership with practical tech adoption, how automated reimbursement actually works, inside a parts and service uptime strategy, and real-world recovery lessons that save money and time.Plus quick hits and top headlines you need to know from @GeneralMotors, @CircleKOfficial, Santo Tequila, and more. This episode is sponsored by Chevron: https://www.regi.com/👉 Don’t miss the full breakdown on Work Truck ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
In this episode of Fleet Legends, sponsored by Legend Fleet, we sit down with Oleg Cytowicz, a lifelong fleet professional whose journey from racing pit crew to global fleet operations is full of perspective, humor, and heart.Hosted by Lauren Fletcher, your fleet industry storyteller, this conversation dives into Oleg’s early days logging mileage by hand, the tech revolutions that reshaped fleet management, and why (no matter how smart the tools get) people will always be the core of it all.Oleg’s take on leadership, learning, and connection is pure gold for anyone in fleet or in a company leadership position.🎥 WATCH NOW to learn:- How Oleg went from racing cars to managing fleets across North America and Europe- The two lessons every fleet manager should learn early- Why understanding people matters as much as understanding vehicles- How to stay sharp with technology (and why AI still needs a human touch)- The secrets to building trust, teamwork, and long-term industry friendships- And the real “Fleet Manager’s High” that keeps pros coming back year after yearLearn more at https://www.legendsoftheroad.com/💬 Drop your favorite insight from Oleg in the comments — and let us know who you’d love to see featured next!🚛 Visit Work Truck for the latest fleet news and insights ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
Fleet leaders face real challenges every day — from managing supplier relationships and navigating tariff impacts to dealing with data overload and cultural shifts. However, they’re also developing creative solutions, fostering stronger partnerships, and laying the groundwork for the next generation of fleet professionals.In this Leading Fleets panel from Work Truck Exchange 2025, Editorial Advisory Board members Amy McAdams, Bob Adamsky, Kevin Rider, and Mikhaila Baldwin share their perspectives in an honest, interactive conversation.What you’ll hear in this session:- Challenges you don’t always see on stage, including supplier disconnects, tariff pressures, and the ongoing struggle with too much data.- Partnerships that worked: real stories of suppliers stepping up, fast-tracking solutions, and helping fleets save time and money.- Why relationships matter: building trust both ways and creating partnerships that last beyond one contract or company.- The future of fleet leadership: how to inspire the next generation, from hands-on training to mentorship, internships, and showing young people the possibilities in fleet.- Actionable takeaways: transparency, open communication, and creative problem-solving as key tools for success.This isn’t a one-way presentation — it’s a dialogue filled with real-world stories, lessons learned, and advice that any fleet manager, supplier, or industry partner can put into practice.Whether you’re new to fleet management or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with ideas to strengthen your operations, your partnerships, and your outlook on where fleet leadership is headed.Ready to learn more? Check out https://www.worktruckex.com/🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
Fuel is one of a fleet’s biggest expenses, and if you’re not actively managing it, you could be leaking money without even realizing it.In this episode, Bri Perry Lang of Fleetio breaks down how fuel management goes way beyond saving pennies at the pump. We’re talking about:- The hidden culprits eating up your fuel budget (idling, poor routing, underinflated tires)- How fuel data doubles as a maintenance crystal ball- Why fuel cards and telematics are a game-changer for visibility- Spotting fuel theft without playing “bad cop”- Real savings fleets are seeing (thousands back in their budget with even small improvements)Whether you’ve got five trucks or five thousand, putting a little structure behind your fuel program can lead to huge savings and fewer headaches.🔗 Dive deeper with our Fleet 101 series from Work Truck: https://www.worktruckonline.com/content/video-series/truck-chat-fleet-101Learn more about Fleetio: https://www.fleetio.com
Managing a fleet isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about cutting through the chaos. That’s where Mohamad Kabbani, Head of Shell Fleet Solutions U.S., says his team steps in.We caught up with Mohamad at the Bobit B2Xnews van to hear how Shell Fleet Solutions is working with fleets to move from reactive to proactive, and the conversation delivered.Here’s what Mohamad shared:- Shell Fleet Solutions starts with listening, not selling. Their team of account managers gets in the trenches with customers to understand real-world pain points.- Fleet managers are juggling tech, budgets, and reporting headaches. Shell Fleet Solutions' tools, like their fuel card solutions, aim to simplify — not complicate — day-to-day operations.- Total cost of ownership is still king, and Shell Fleet Solutions' services are built to help fleets improve efficiency, visibility, and security to save big.- Data-driven insights are making life easier for large fleets, with advanced reporting that puts the power back in the hands of fleet managers.The message? Shell Fleet Solutions is a true fleet partner, one that listens first and builds solutions that actually make a difference.More on Shell Fleet Solutions: https://www.shell.com/business-customers/shell-fleet-solutions.htmlVisit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
Ever think towing a truck or trailer out of a ditch, or even a parking lot, looks easy? Think again. In this episode of Truck Chat, we’re going behind the scenes with Cascade Heavy Rescue and its owner, Casey LaDelle, to learn what can really happen when a tow goes wrong (and watch one go right).
You may recognize LaDelle from our coverage of the Star Nation Experience with Western Star as one of the 2025 coaches, or from his YouTube channel.
From box trucks buried in mud to vehicles hanging off cliffs, every recovery is a puzzle of precision, patience, and pure skill. You’ll see how experience, the right tools, and smart strategy keep fleets moving, and how one wrong move can turn a simple tow into a costly nightmare.
💡 Watch now to learn:
Want more? Check us out on Work Truck!
What if your fleet management company didn’t just lease electric vehicles but helped you install chargers, plan your infrastructure, and ensure your EVs actually work for your team?Meet Inspiration Mobility, the first FMC focused solely on electric vehicles. In this episode of At the Show, we’re talking with Amy Soderquist and Jack Leffler about what makes their model different — and why their customers are sticking with EVs.Here’s what you’ll take away:- Why treating EVs like gas vehicles is a rookie mistake- What it really takes to support EV adoption (hint: it’s more than a plug)- How Inspiration combines vehicles, charging plans, and support under one roof- Why driver satisfaction is key to long-term EV successFrom charging plans to on-the-ground infrastructure support, this team helps fleets make electric vehicles work — not just in theory, but in the real world.🔗 Learn more: https://www.inspirationmobility.com/Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
What if your fleet data could actually work for you — uncovering insights, saving time, and even writing its own reports? That’s where Sherry Calkins and the team at Geotab come in.As the world’s #1 telematics provider, Geotab isn’t just tracking vehicles — they’re powering smarter decisions. With a wide ecosystem of partners and cutting-edge AI tools, Geotab is helping fleets tap into the full value of their data across assets, tools, vehicles, and beyond.Here’s why fleet pros are paying attention:- Use AI (like Geotab Ace) to simplify reporting and decision-making- Plug-and-play partner integrations to manage your entire operation- Safety-first insights to help reduce distracted driving and collisions- Real-time visibility into assets, tools, and vehicles- Support for doing more with less in today’s tight fleet environmentSherry’s advice? Don’t wait to explore AI. Start small, test what your data can do, and lean on your partners to make it easier.Fleet isn’t just about the vehicles — it’s about the people, the data, and how we all work together to get everyone home safe.Learn more: https://www.geotab.com/
Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
In this episode of Faces of Fleet, we sit down with Dan Fierro, vice president of sales and marketing at Flexco Fleet Services, to trace his path from Wilmington, California, to a leadership role that blends resilience, mentorship, and a whole lot of heart. Dan’s story isn’t a straight line. Baseball opened doors, a college coach pulled him back into the game (and into school), and a part-time job at Ryder turned into a decades-long career in fleet.We discuss the power of having someone in your corner, why mentors matter more than titles, and how a health scare prompted Dan to realign his priorities and show up for his family. He shares why he took a “temporary” leap to the East Coast that turned into a true community, and how connection still sits at the center of how he leads teams and builds relationships.Topics covered in this episode- Growing up in Wilmington and learning the value of having each other’s backs- The coach who changed everything and the decision to stay in school- Shifting from criminal justice studies to a career in fleet with Ryder- Moving from operations to sales and finding flexibility that fit family life- Mentorship moments with leaders who opened doors and believed in potential- Giving back as camp counselors and why early experiences shape lifelines- Taking a cross-country opportunity with Flex Go and finding a new home base- Work-life balance, health, and showing up for your kids- Building a strong circle of influence and leading with generosity- What makes fleet special: the wide range of skills from finance to procurement to analyticsWhether you’re new to fleet, exploring the sales side, or looking to lead with purpose, Dan’s story is a reminder that success comes from community, consistency, and choosing to be present for the moments that matter.👀 Watch, learn, and get inspired.💬 Drop a comment to share your thoughts or suggest who we should feature next.👍 Like this video, hit subscribe, and explore more Faces of Fleet and Truck Chat episodes in the playlist.Stay up to date on all the latest industry news or watch more episodes today ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com/videos
What is a walk-in van, really? Is it the same as a step van? And when should you consider one for your fleet?Whether you’re new to fleet management or have been doing this for years, this Fleet 101 episode breaks down the basics you may be afraid to ask, but absolutely need to know.Lauren Fletcher sits down with experts Joe Snyder and Chris Wolff from Freightliner Custom Chassis to cover:- What defines a walk-in van and how it compares to traditional cargo vans- The industries using them (and why)- Key benefits like driver ergonomics, payload, customization, and safety features- When to make the switch (and why total cost of ownership matters more than sticker price)Work Truck is here to help you make smarter, more confident fleet decisions one stop at a time.🔔 Subscribe for more practical, jargon-free breakdowns made for today’s fleet pros.Want to learn more about FCCC? https://www.freightlinerchassis.com/🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
What do you get when you mix rugged performance with top-tier tech and comfort? The 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel X Crew Cab 4x4 — and Work Truck had the chance to check it out from the driver’s seat.Work Truck walks through what makes this truck more than just a good-looking workhorse. Powered by a 3.0L Hurricane I6 Twin Turbo engine with 420 horsepower and 469 lb.-ft. of torque, the Rebel X is built to handle hauling, towing, off-roading, and everything in between.With max towing up to 11,550 pounds, a 3.92 rear axle ratio, and an electronic locking differential, this truck doesn’t mess around. Add in the Surround-View Camera System, digital rearview mirror, and Advanced Safety Group II — including features like drowsy driver detection and intersection collision assist — and you’ve got smarts to match the strength.Inside, it’s all business-meets-comfort. Think leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, dual wireless charging, and a massive 14.4-inch Uconnect screen. It’s the kind of mobile office you’ll actually enjoy working from.Fleet managers, take note: integrated navigation, available telematics, a helpful head-up display, and premium tech features check the boxes for connectivity and efficiency.Topped off with Mojave Sand paint, 10th Anniversary Rebel graphics, and practical extras like a spray-in bedliner and deployable bed step — this truck isn’t just here to look good, it’s here to get the job done.Specs at a glance:- Max Towing: Up to 11,550 lbs- Payload: Up to 1,910 lbs- Fuel Economy: 19 MPG combined (17 city / 24 highway)- Price as tested: Just over $77KThis is the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel X — built to lead, ready to haul, and not afraid to stand out.Subscribe to Work Truck for more Truck Chat videos and commercial fleet insights: https://www.worktruckonline.com/
What if you could get a like-new fleet truck — with a 100,000-mile warranty — for half the price of a new one? Jonathan Carr is making that happen with his fleet truck remanufacturing business, Vehicle Reman, and he’s helping fleets slash budgets without sacrificing performance.With over two decades at Christian Brothers Automotive under his belt, Jonathan saw the writing on the wall: fleet managers need a cost-effective way to keep trucks on the road without committing to sky-high new vehicle costs. His solution? Take older fleet vehicles, completely remanufacture them, and give them a second life — all for up to 70% less than new.Here’s why fleets are jumping on board:- Full remanufacturing with a 100K-mile warranty- Save $37K–$100K per truck — or more for large units- Fast turnaround in 2–3 weeks- Massive bottom-line impact for large fleets- A buffer against EV uncertainty, tariffs, and truck shortagesJonathan’s advice? Diversify your fleet strategy. Start small — even just 5% — and see how much value you can recover before diving into the unknowns of tomorrow’s truck market.Remanufacturing isn’t just a trend. It’s a movement — and it might be your fleet’s smartest next step.Learn more: https://www.vehiclereman.com/Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com
What if you could stop distracted driving — not just track it — with zero driver input and no passenger complaints? That’s exactly what SaverOne is doing with its proactive, in-cab safety tech built to prevent cellphone use behind the wheel.Let’s face it: distracted driving is one of the biggest threats on our roads, and cell phones are the #1 culprit. SaverOne saw that problem and created a real solution — one that doesn’t rely on drivers to make the right choice, but instead eliminates the temptation altogether.Here’s why this system stands out:- Automatically disables unsafe phone functions while driving- Allows safe, limited phone use like navigation or hands-free calls- Doesn’t interfere with passengers — just the driver- No need for driver compliance or behavior tracking- One of the only techs that actually prevents distractions, not just monitors themFleet and safety managers already juggle an overwhelming mix of tools and priorities. SaverOne makes it simple: stop the distraction at the source.The advice? Focus on prevention, not punishment. Empower your drivers by removing the risk — and give your fleet a smarter, safer way forward.Learn more: https://saver.one/
What if your fleet vans could hit the road faster — and be safer while doing it? Jonathan Webster from Weather Guard is helping fleets do exactly that with new van shelving and flooring upgrades designed with both safety and #uptime in mind.
With their latest launch, Weather Guard is bringing serious utility to the fleet world: fold-down shelving with a 300-lb. capacity and new safety-sealed flooring that makes getting in and out of vans safer for every driver.
Here’s why fleets are paying attention:- Folding shelves with 300-lb. capacity per unit- New flooring with safety seal to reduce slips and falls- White powder-coated shelving for better visibility- Weather Guard products ship in 7 days or less- Fully stocked and ready to go when your fleet is
Jonathan’s message? Fleet managers need their vehicles upfitted and on the road — not waiting in line. With Weather Guard, safety and speed go hand-in-hand.
More red on the shelves. More ready when it counts.
Learn more: https://www.weatherguard.com/
What KPIs really matter in fleet management? Whether you're a new fleet manager trying to make sense of the chaos or a seasoned pro looking to tighten up operations, Nathan Schafer of RTA: The Fleet Success Company is here to break it all down in plain, no-BS terms.In this episode of Fleet 101, we’re diving into the essential key performance indicators (KPIs) that every fleet manager should track — starting with availability, PM compliance, and scheduled versus unscheduled repairs. Nathan also offers some thoughts on utilization and the metrics that contribute to the big picture.If your fleet has trucks, people, and goals but no clue what to measure, this one’s for you. Learn how to avoid costly downtime, stay ahead of maintenance surprises, and make smarter decisions based on data you actually understand.Perfect for:• New fleet managers or those new to tracking KPIs• Fleets that want to reduce downtime and improve PM compliance• Anyone who’s ever asked, “Wait… what should I be measuring?”Topics covered:• Fleet availability vs. downtime• Preventive maintenance (PM) compliance• Scheduled vs. unscheduled repairs• Utilization myths and realities• How to start small and scale your KPI game➡️ Hit play and get your fleet metrics on track — without the jargon.Want to learn more about RTA Fleet? https://rtafleet.com/
What if your next fleet vehicle didn’t break the bank and looked cool doing the job? Slate Auto is flipping the script on #EV expectations with its all-electric, no-frills class one pickup: A truck built for fleets, wrapped in customization, and starting in the mid-$20K range.In this video, Drew Walker, head of fleet Sales at Slate Auto, gives us some background on the latest in pickup trucks. With just one trim and no complex options list, Slate’s approach focuses on simplicity, affordability, and serious versatility. Think: a vehicle designed from the ground up for mass personalization through an extensive accessory catalog — including easy wrap panels for branding and graphics.Here’s why it’s turning heads in the fleet world:🚚 Class 1 EV pickup designed for mass personalization💰 Starts in the mid-$20K range (before incentives)🎯 Built-in cost efficiency and smart total cost of ownership🔋 Smaller form factor = more energy and cost savings🎨 Wrap-ready panels for commercial and government fleet brandingFleet buyers will love the smart design, operators will be excited about driving something cool, and the budget-conscious will finally have a chance to rethink what “enough vehicle” really means.Ready to meet the EV designed for real-world fleets? Hit play.Learn more: https://www.slate.auto/