The challenge

Fleet safety technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, but successful implementation depends on more than the technology itself. Driver trust, communication, training and the way data is used can all influence whether new systems are accepted and used effectively.

Teletrac Navman wanted to understand the human side of technologies such as AI-powered cameras, in-cab alerts and driver coaching. The aim was to identify what supports adoption, where trust can break down and how fleet operators can use technology to improve safety, coaching and driver retention.

The approach

Arlington Research designed and delivered an international quantitative study among 600 professional commercial vehicle drivers across four major fleet markets: the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

The research explored:

• Attitudes towards AI-enabled safety technology
• Technology onboarding and training
• Trust in monitoring and data transparency
• Driver coaching and positive recognition
• Real-time in-cab feedback
• The use of video evidence in coaching conversations
• The relationship between technology adoption, safety and driver retention

The findings were analysed to identify practical recommendations for fleet operators and were organised into a five-stage framework for the published report.

The insight

The research showed that the success of a fleet safety programme depends heavily on how technology is introduced, explained and used. Clear onboarding, access to personal safety data, fair coaching and timely feedback all strengthen driver confidence and engagement.

Among the standout findings:

• Drivers are three times more likely to view coaching as highly effective when they receive high-quality onboarding.
• One in five drivers said new technology had been installed with little or no communication.
• 47% said easier access to their own safety data would improve trust.
• Drivers receiving real-time in-cab feedback were significantly less likely to report near misses.
• Coaching supported by video evidence was viewed as fairer and more effective than coaching without it.
• Positive recognition had a greater influence on driver motivation than financial incentives alone.

impact

The research became the foundation of Mobilizing the Future of Fleets: 2026 Driver Coaching Edition. The report introduced a five-pillar framework covering launch and onboarding, data transparency, driver coaching, real-time support and video verification.

By combining original research with practical recommendations, the report gives fleet operators a clear route to improving technology adoption and driver engagement. It also positions Teletrac Navman as a trusted voice on fleet safety, AI-enabled coaching and driver retention, while providing evidence for customer conversations, content marketing and wider thought leadership activity.

Download the report