Three fifths (60%) of European companies view the development of a sustainable vehicle fleet as a strategic priority, according to Alphabet’s latest European Fleet Emission Monitor report.
This is a slight decrease from the 64% recorded in 2024, the report, which drew insights from over 1,000 fleet managers across 12 countries, showed.
Some 46% of respondents view sustainability as a ‘crucial factor’ in corporate decision making, while 41% said that they ‘acknowledge its importance’ but don’t always view it as a priority – both percentages are unchanged since last year.
‘Progress and pitfalls’
“This year’s survey uncovers both the progress and the pitfalls of sustainability,” commented Jesper Lyndberg, CEO of Alphabet International. “While the ambition to drive change across is evident across Europe, the real challenge remains the execution.
“Companies that invest in electrification, integrated data systems and sustainability now, will be better positioned to avoid rising costs and adapt to tightening regulations in the future. This way they can reap the full benefits of operational savings, incentives and strategic resilience. Those who delay will pay. Those who act will lead.”
Obstacles to progress
Under the terms of the EU Green Deal, large companies across Europe are now obligated to begin publicly reporting their sustainability efforts, with full implementation expected by 2026. As Alphabet notes, this is spurring interest in transitioning to more sustainable transport options, however many firms still face obstacles to progress, including a lack of available data.
This is particularly evident when it comes to monitoring emissions. While most businesses believe that monitoring emissions is fundamental to reducing them, just 43% currently track their CO2 output, while just 31% employ digital tools to help them do so.
More than half of fleet managers (56%) do not consider the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) as a ‘major incentive’ to improve their sustainability measures, particularly in terms of collecting CO2 emission data.
“This year’s European survey shows that, while the industry is making progress, there’s still plenty of work to be done to help companies make better informed decisions, and to support them with their sustainability goals and emissions reporting,” added Ian Turner, chief sales officer, Alphabet GB. Read more here.
