AI-driven telematics safety solutions are widely seen as the future of fleet management, with 83% of fleets recognising AI as a key tool for improving driver safety, according to the latest Teletrac Navman survey. Yet, despite this overwhelming consensus, many fleet operators remain hesitant to fully implement AI technology.
Chris L’Ecluse, Safety Specialist at Teletrac Navman, identifies change management and fear of the unknown as the primary barriers to AI adoption. While fleet managers understand the benefits AI can bring, getting drivers, unions, and stakeholders on board is a complex process.
Resistance to Change – A Natural Human Response
“Humans are hardwired to resist change,” L’Ecluse explains. “We are routine-driven beings. When a new process or technology is introduced, it can create discomfort and hesitation, even if that change ultimately improves outcomes.”
AI technology, especially when integrated with telematics and dashcams, offers a significant safety advantage—reducing distracted driving, improving driver training, and predicting accidents before they happen. However, resistance often comes from a lack of understanding about how AI functions and what it means for drivers.
L’Ecluse highlights that the media portrayal of AI over the years has added to this uncertainty. “There’s been a lot made of AI being a threat in various forms, and that lingers in people’s minds,” he says. Fleet operators and drivers need reassurance that AI is a tool designed to support them, not replace them.
Unions and Driver Concerns Around AI
A significant challenge for fleet managers is addressing concerns from drivers and unions about AI monitoring and data usage.
“Until drivers understand the repercussions and benefits of AI, they may be resistant,” L’Ecluse notes. Privacy concerns and fear of surveillance often emerge when discussing AI-powered dashcams, which can monitor driver behaviour in real time.
Teletrac Navman has tackled these concerns by ensuring full transparency in how AI technology operates. “We go to great lengths to explain to both organisations and drivers what the technology does, what it records, where the data is stored, and who has access to it,” L’Ecluse explains.
To further ease concerns, Teletrac Navman runs driver education forums, providing a space for open discussion about AI implementation. “These sessions allow drivers to ask any question they want about AI, telematics, or fleet safety. It helps build confidence and remove fear around the unknown,” he says.
The Role of AI in Coaching, Not Controlling
One common misconception about AI in fleet safety is that it takes control of the vehicle or dictates driver decisions. L’Ecluse is quick to clarify that AI is a coaching tool, not a control mechanism.
“The AI technology we use provides real-time feedback to drivers, alerting them to potential risks like speeding, harsh braking, following too closely, or distracted driving,” he explains. “But it does not take control of the vehicle or replace human judgment.”
For example, if a driver is exceeding the speed limit, AI can issue an in-cab alert reminding them to slow down. This real-time feedback helps drivers self-correct rather than relying on after-the-fact enforcement.
Building AI Trust Through Results
While adoption challenges remain, AI is proving its value in fleet safety. Operators that have embraced AI-driven safety solutions are seeing reductions in accidents, fewer distracted driving incidents, and improved compliance with safety policies.
One of the key strategies for overcoming resistance is demonstrating the benefits to drivers. When drivers see how AI helps them avoid fines, improve safety records, and reduce stress, they are more likely to accept and even embrace the technology.
Additionally, fleet managers must involve drivers in the AI implementation process, providing clear communication and reassurance that the technology is there to assist, not punish.
Moving Forward: A Cultural Shift
L’Ecluse believes that AI adoption in fleet safety is as much about cultural change as it is about technology.
“To make AI work, we need to ensure that both fleet managers and drivers see it as a tool for enhancing safety, not just enforcing rules,” he says. “That means education, transparency, and proving through real-world application that AI protects drivers rather than penalising them.”
The road to full AI adoption may be gradual, but as more fleets witness the safety and efficiency gains AI can deliver, the shift will accelerate. By focusing on change management, education, and transparency, fleet operators can break through the barriers and unlock AI’s full potential for a safer future on the roads.
This article is designed for fleet managers and decision-makers looking to navigate the challenges of AI adoption while ensuring a smooth transition to safer, AI-powered fleet operations. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or additional angles!
