EVAI, a pioneering company specializing in advanced data analytics and AI-driven solutions for fleet management, has officially published the results from its latest industry survey.
Going by the available details, this particular survey treads up a long distance to reveal how 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts could significantly impact fleet purchase cycles, vehicle lifecycle strategies, and EV budget planning, thus creating significant opportunities for auto dealers.
More on that would reveal how the stated exercise, which took into account the opinion of more than 2,500 auto executives earlier this month, effectively highlights potential opportunities for dealers, as commercial fleet operators across the board gear up for cost increases that may delay purchasing decisions.
Talk about the published results on a slightly deeper level, we begin from how nearly half (48%) of all surveyed fleet managers said they are likely to delay planned vehicle replacements due to anticipated cost increases, with 10% considered as very likely to do so and 30% as somewhat likely.
Next up, we must dig into how almost three-quarters (71%) of fleet managers anticipate higher vehicle acquisition costs, with 31% expecting a significant increase and 40% a moderate increase.
Another detail worth a mention is rooted in the fact that more than 70% of fleets are more likely to consider U.S-made electric vehicles in the context of managing tariff impacts and navigating supply chain concerns.
Then, we have a contingent of 30% respondents who plan to extend vehicle lifecycles, whereas on the other hand, 40% will reassess purchases case-by-case, potentially reducing short-term turnover at dealerships.
Hold on, we still have a couple of bits left to unpack, considering we haven’t yet touched upon a piece of data which reveals how 69% fleet managers expect total cost of ownership (TCO) to increase, with nearly half of them (49%) indicating they will decrease or postpone EV adoption budgets.
We also haven’t touched upon the way fleets are now seeking value-added partnerships, as 42% are exploring alternative fuel vehicles, and the same percentage is likely to enhance telematics usage for cost visibility and operational control.
EVAI further took this opportunity to unveil certain measures that dealers can take to make things easier for commercial buyers. The first measure in line relates to negotiating service rates. This means they can offer preferred pricing to reduce maintenance costs.
The next measure here would involve ensuring priority services, translating to minimized downtime with faster repairs and proactive maintenance.
Alongside that, there is the prospect of providing access to better OEM parts. In essence, dealers can ensure durability and performance with reliable components.
They can also support supply chain sourcing by streamlining vehicle and parts availability to avoid delays. Joining that would be a call for guiding fleets through proper claim processes and reduce liability.
“Dealers are more than just suppliers—they are key partners in helping fleets adapt and service vehicles throughout their lifecycle,” said Ian Gardner, Founder and CEO of EVAI. “As commercial fleet operators face cost pressure and uncertainty, they’re looking for auto dealership partners who can guide them through smarter lifecycle decisions, EV adoption, and long-term service planning. The dealers who respond with solutions—not just sales—will be the ones who build loyalty and capture opportunity.”
