Insights and news from the ATOM Mobility team

If you’re managing a vehicle fleet, you've probably faced that important moment: deciding when to replace your vehicles. Maybe it's after the significant kilometer mark or when repair costs are eating up your maintenance budget. But fleet replacement isn’t just a simple swap-out—it's a critical component of a broader fleet replacement strategy that can affect your business. 

Let's learn more about fleet replacement and why this seemingly dull task is precisely what your business needs.

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What is fleet replacement?

Think of your fleet like a set of tools. Over time, those tools get worn out and stop working as well. Fleet replacement is about swapping out old vehicles before they start causing problems and costing you too much in repairs.

It’s not just about avoiding breakdowns (though that’s a big help). It’s about keeping your business running smoothly without any surprises, extra costs, or customers left waiting because of unreliable vehicles.

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Why fleet replacement matters

Like everything else, vehicles have a natural lifecycle. First, they’re shiny and new, ready to take on the world. Then, over time, they start to wear down. The trick is figuring out the perfect time to say goodbye—before they become a burden but after they’ve provided maximum value.

A solid vehicle fleet management strategy includes a smart replacement plan to keep your operations smooth and predictable. Plus, a well-maintained fleet is safer and more eco-friendly, which is great for reducing your carbon footprint.

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When should I replace my fleet?

So, when exactly should you replace your fleet? There is no one answer. It's a balance of time, cost, and vehicle performance. However, there are a few red flags that signal it's time to start planning your next move: 

1. High maintenance costs: When repair bills start piling up, it’s a clear sign your vehicle is reaching the end of its lifecycle. At some point, keeping it on the road becomes more expensive than getting a new one.
2. Decreased fuel efficiency: Older vehicles use more fuel, which can significantly affect your decision. If your fleet spends more time at the pump than on the road, consider replacements.
3. Frequent downtime: Same goes for repairs—if your vehicles are basically living in a repair shop than actually driving, maybe they are at the end of their road. 
4. Safety concerns: Safety comes first. If your fleet vehicles are starting to pose risks to drivers or passengers, replacement is not just a financial decision—it’s a moral one.

Here are some general guidelines to help you understand when the fleet replacement topic becomes urgent:

• The average car functions optimally (in a rental mode), with minimal repair costs for approximately 130,000 to 150,000 km.
• The average electric kick scooter or bike lasts about 4-5 years (seasons).

For a more personalized approach to when to replace fleet vehicles, ATOM Mobility’s vehicle sharing solutions can help monitor your fleet's performance in real-time and optimize your vehicle lifecycle management.

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Building a fleet replacement strategy

So, now that you know what to look for, how do you build an effective fleet replacement strategy? Here are some tips to get started:

1. Plan ahead with a replacement schedule

Developing a proactive replacement schedule is one of the best ways to manage your fleet. By predicting when each vehicle will need to be replaced, you can budget and plan for it accordingly. This prevents sudden financial hits and keeps your fleet up-to-date without any surprises.

2. Use data to guide decisions

Your vehicles generate a ton of data. Use it! Telematics, maintenance records, and fuel efficiency reports can give you valuable insights into each vehicle’s health. By tracking this information, you can make informed decisions on when to replace specific vehicles. ATOM Mobility's platform offers fleet management tools that let you keep track of all this data in one easy-to-use dashboard.

3. Think long-term, not just short-term

Sure, replacing your fleet comes with upfront costs, but think about the long-term savings. Newer vehicles are more efficient, require less maintenance, and often come with better safety features. A vehicle fleet management strategy that prioritizes long-term gains will save you money in the long run and boost your bottom line.

4. Consider lease vs. buy

Depending on your business model, leasing vehicles might make more sense than buying. Leasing can offer lower upfront costs, predictable monthly payments, and the ability to replace vehicles more frequently without taking a major financial hit.

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The role of lifecycle management in fleet replacement

Fleet replacement is only one part of the puzzle. Effective fleet replacement and lifecycle management mean examining each vehicle's entire lifecycle from the moment it joins your fleet to the moment it’s sold or retired. 

Lifecycle management involves regular maintenance, data analysis, and a clear understanding of when a vehicle is no longer worth keeping around. With the right tools can track all of this in one place, ensuring no vehicle overstays its welcome.

How ATOM Mobility can help

Looking to take the headache out of fleet replacement? ATOM Mobility’s innovative solutions make it easy to manage your fleet’s lifecycle from start to finish. From tracking maintenance needs to optimizing replacement timing, we can give you the tools you need to keep your fleet running smoothly.

Check out our fleet manager's products to see how you can simplify your fleet replacement strategy and ensure your vehicles are working for you, not against you. 

Fleet replacement might not be the most glamorous part of vehicle management, but it’s essential for keeping your business running smoothly. With a solid fleet replacement strategy in place, you’ll reduce costs, improve efficiency, and keep your operations on track. And remember, ATOM Mobility is here to help make the process as painless as possible—so you can focus on what really matters: growing your business.

In big cities, employees often want to avoid traffic and parking hassles, preferring an easier way to commute. Luckily, there are people ready to take on the challenge. Meet MOBEO – an innovative Spanish company that is not only transforming how we get around but also making corporate travel more exciting.

We caught up with Álvaro Ventura, CEO of MOBEO, to get the inside scoop on how his company is creating corporate fleets and shaking up the world of business travel with a help from Atom Mobility.

Launch date: November 2023
‍Country: Spain
‍Web page: https://mobeosharing.com
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mobeoshare/id6469049276
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=mobeoshare.app&hl=en_AU
‍Fleet: bicycles (incl. conventional, hybrid, mountain, electric bikes), pedal karts, and bicycles
for people with reduced mobility.

From two wheels to many

With 12 years of experience in the tourism industry, the MOBEO team identified an opportunity to expand their business by leveraging resources from their existing projects. This vision led to the creation of MOBEOsharing.com, a platform designed to meet the growing demand for employee transportation services. Their ambitious goal? To become the leading provider of shared private fleets for European businesses within five years.

MOBEO’s journey began with a self-funded investment of 70,000 euros, which laid a strong foundation for their operations. However, the team quickly recognized that additional capital would be essential for rapid expansion. They are now actively seeking investments to accelerate their entry into the European market and to help achieve their bold vision.

What makes MOBEO special

MOBEO’s mission goes beyond simply providing vehicles; they aim to transform how companies approach transportation. MOBEO works closely with clients to run campaigns that encourage employees to adopt greener travel options instead of relying on cars. Their comprehensive services include digital awareness campaigns, personalized commuting routes, and team-building events focused on sustainable transportation.

As Ventura, a key figure in MOBEO, explains, “Some clients go all-in with our full package, while others might just want us to handle the wheels. It’s like a buffet—take what you need!”. This flexibility allows MOBEO to cater to companies of all sizes and budgets, making them a preferred choice for businesses looking to modernize their transportation strategies.

On the software side, MOBEO relies on ATOM Mobility's digital rental solution, which provides MOBEO users (employees of companies that MOBEO partners with) the opportunity to create an account in the MOBEO app, upload their employee ID card (allowing the MOBEO team to verify that the individual is indeed employed by the specific company), and, once verified, gain access and pre-book vehicles for upcoming rides. The MOBEO app also features a calendar function, enabling users to schedule future bookings as needed. At the end of the month, MOBEO bills partners based on the usage of vehicles by their employees. All vehicle monitoring, unlocking, and locking are automatically managed by the ATOM Mobility platform. It’s that simple.

Targeting clients

MOBEO is strategically expanding its presence by focusing on large companies with offices in major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Valencia, and Seville. These cities are particularly well-suited for introducing shared mobility solutions due to their large employee bases and the strong demand for sustainable transport options. On average, an employee takes a vehicle for 1-2 days and rides 10-40 km per booking.

Partnering with ATOM Mobility

In 2019, MOBEO began with a small software provider that met their initial needs but lacked the capacity for growth. Recognizing the need for a more robust solution, MOBEO partnered with ATOM Mobility—a decision that proved pivotal for scaling their operations.

ATOM Mobility, a leader in shared mobility software solutions, is known for its comprehensive platform and exceptional customer service. Their software empowers businesses like MOBEO to manage fleets efficiently, offer seamless user experiences, and scale operations smoothly. MOBEO frequently encountered positive feedback about ATOM Mobility during hardware discussions, prompting them to explore and eventually adopt ATOM Mobility's services.

This partnership has been instrumental in MOBEO’s success, providing them with the tools and support necessary to expand and innovate in the competitive European market.

Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: Be ready!

For those looking to enter the shared mobility sector, Ventura offers sage advice: “This industry is going places, but it’s not a walk in the park. Good financial planning is key because regulatory changes are like a rollercoaster ride—you’ve got to hang on and adapt quickly.”

The future of success

MOBEO is setting new standards for corporate mobility, thanks to their innovative approach and strategic partnership with ATOM Mobility. Together, they are on track to revolutionize how businesses manage transportation in Spain.

As MOBEO continues to pioneer advancements in corporate mobility, their collaboration with ATOM Mobility remains a cornerstone of their success. With shared values and a commitment to innovation, MOBEO and ATOM Mobility are poised to lead the transformation of business transportation across Europe.

If you’re managing a fleet, you know that keeping track of all the moving parts can feel like holding a dozen plates spinning at once. That's why ATOM Mobility's latest feature is about to become your new best friend: say hello to the Task Manager for fleet operators!

We are listening to our clients

The new Task Manager feature is based on direct feedback from our Sharing and Rental clients. They needed a more efficient way to organize their on-site teams and manage tasks. We heard their requests loud and clear and have developed a tool that streamlines operations and reduces headaches.

So, what exactly is the Task Manager?

Instead of drowning in a sea of sticky notes and spreadsheets, you now have a sleek, intuitive Task Manager that allows you to:

1. Create tasks for your operational team directly from the dashboard.
2. Link each task to a specific vehicle, so there's no confusion about what needs to be done where.
3. Indicate the type of task, be it maintenance, cleaning, charging, or a simple check-up.
4. Set start and end dates for each task, ensuring timely execution.
5. Assign a priority level (high, medium, or low) to help your team focus on what’s most important.
6. Monitor task completion in real-time, knowing exactly who’s working on what and whether they’re on track.

Why it is a game changer

Let’s break down the main benefits:

1. Centralized management
   • All your fleet and operational tasks are managed from one dashboard. No more switching between apps, tabs, or physical notes. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for fleet management.
2. Enhanced team coordination
   • By assigning tasks with clear details and deadlines, your team knows exactly what’s expected. It’s goodbye to miscommunication and hello to efficiency.
3. Real-time monitoring
   • Keep tabs on who’s doing what and when it’s being done. It’s like having eyes on the ground without needing to be everywhere at once.
4. Improved client satisfaction
   • With more organized and efficient operations, your fleet’s uptime increases, and client satisfaction soars. Happy clients mean repeat business and great reviews.
5. Customizable prioritization
   • Not all tasks are created equal. With the ability to set priority levels, you ensure that the most critical tasks get the attention they deserve.

A real-world scenario

Let’s see how this might look in real life. Imagine you’re managing a fleet of cars. One of your team members noticed that a tire is flat Using the Task Manager, they can quickly create a task, link it to the specific car, set a high priority (because nobody likes a flat tire), and assign it to the team member responsible for maintenance.

You can then monitor this task from the dashboard, ensuring it’s completed on time. The result? A happy customer who didn’t have to deal with a flat tire and a team that knows exactly what’s expected of them.

Ready to get started?

Excited to try out the Task Manager for yourself? Head over to your ATOM Mobility dashboard and start exploring this game-changing feature. It’s designed to be intuitive and user-friendly so you can hit the ground running.

At ATOM Mobility, we’re committed to making fleet management as smooth and efficient as possible. The new Task Manager is just one of the many ways we’re helping you stay ahead of the game. By centralizing task creation, assignment, and monitoring, we give you the tools to operate like a well-oiled machine.

So, put on your superhero cape (or just your favorite work shirt), and let the Task Manager take your fleet operations to the next level.‍

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various sectors, and micromobility is no exception. By integrating AI into e-scooters, e-bikes, cars and other small vehicles, the industry is becoming smarter, safer, and more efficient. AI’s prowess in data processing, predictive analytics, and machine learning is driving this transformation, making operations more innovative and productive, and setting a bright future for micromobility.

Let's explore how AI is making a significant impact on the micromobility industry through smart parking, dynamic pricing and rebalancing, and damage detection.

From automating routine tasks to providing deep insights through data analysis, AI is reshaping how we navigate urban environments. Its ability to learn from vast amounts of data and make real-time decisions is crucial for developing efficient, sustainable, and user-friendly transportation solutions.

AI in micromobility

Micromobility refers to small, easy-to-maneuver vehicles like e-scooters, e-bikes, and shared bicycles that operate at speeds typically below 25 km/h. The rise of micromobility is driven by the need for convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly urban transport. AI helps tackle critical challenges in the micromobility industry, including parking management, pricing strategies, fleet rebalancing, and damage detection. Companies like SWITCH are leading the way by using advanced algorithms to generate synthetic data, predict demand, optimize fleet distribution, and support strategic planning.

3 business problems AI solves

1) Improper parking

Improper parking can clutter sidewalks and create accessibility issues, frustrating many urban dwellers. AI-driven parking analysis provides a practical solution:

• Image Validation: AI modules validate images uploaded by users, ensuring the vehicle is correctly parked. Invalid images require users to retake them.
• Real-Time Monitoring: AI systems analyze live feeds of parking images, allowing operators to quickly address poor parking.
• Behavioral Improvement: Data from AI analysis helps redefine parking zones and penalize repeat offenders, reducing bad parking practices.
• Support Reduction: Accurate parking data significantly decreases the number of support tickets related to parking issues.

Results? Studies show AI parking analysis can drastically improve compliance. For instance, 52% of improperly parked vehicles are correctly re-parked on the second attempt, rising to 82% by the third attempt.

If you're interested in exploring these solutions further, you can read a case study by ATOM Mobility in collaboration with Captur's AI-Powered Photo Verification solution.

2) Dynamic pricing and rebalancing

AI enhances fleet utilization and customer satisfaction through dynamic pricing and rebalancing strategies:

• Predictive Rebalancing: AI predicts where vehicles are needed most, optimizing their distribution across the city, increasing fleet utilization, and ensuring availability.
• Automated Task Management: Ground teams benefit from automated task assignments, streamlining operations and reducing manual workloads.
• Dynamic Pricing: AI adjusts rental costs based on demand, time of day, and location, maximizing revenue and customer retention.

A case study revealed that scooters placed in AI-recommended areas saw a 6% increase in average revenue, and rebalanced vehicles experienced a 10.8% usage increase within 24 hours.

3) Damage detection

Maintaining vehicle condition is crucial for safety and longevity. AI-powered damage detection systems offer a solution:

• 360-Degree Capture: AI guides users through comprehensive vehicle inspections, capturing detailed images from all angles during pick-up and drop-off.
• Damage Detection: AI algorithms detect and assess scratches, dents, and other damages, focusing on types specific to the business’s needs.
• Automated Reporting: The system generates detailed reports on vehicle damage history and rental status, ensuring transparency and facilitating prompt repairs.

Automating damage detection helps operators maintain high safety standards and reduces downtime from manual inspections. Companies such as FocalX streamline the damage detection functionality.

Embracing AI for a smarter future

Integrating AI in micromobility is revolutionizing the industry by enhancing operational efficiency, user experience, and safety. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in shaping the future of micromobility will grow, driving the industry toward smarter, more sustainable urban transportation solutions.

For micromobility operators, embracing AI technologies is not just an option but a necessity to stay competitive and meet the growing demands of urban commuters. The future of micromobility is intelligent, efficient, and AI-driven.

Join the ATOM Academy

Ready to dive deeper into the world of shared mobility and learn how to use AI to transform your business? Join the ATOM Academy for FREE expert knowledge, practical insights, and innovative strategies that will help you stay ahead in the rapidly evolving micromobility industry. Visit ATOM Mobility to learn more. Let's drive the future of urban transportation together!