Isuzu Australia has unveiled the 2024 edition of its Future of Trucking Report, offering a detailed analysis of truck buyer behaviour and industry trends across the country. The report draws on insights from over 1,300 survey respondents in various sectors, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and evolving dynamics in the Australian trucking landscape.
Industry Sentiment: Facing Challenges Head-On
The report reveals that despite facing significant hurdles, the industry remains resilient. Among the key challenges are tighter profit margins, escalating fuel costs, and difficulties in accessing skilled employees. Notably, 50% of surveyed businesses anticipate rapid changes in the sector over the next three years, driven by technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and increased freight demands.
“If the current state of Australia’s road transport industry and related sectors could be distilled down into one descriptor, I’d have to opt for the word ‘change,’” said Ben Lasry, Chief of Sales & Aftersales at Isuzu Australia. “Perhaps like never before, the road transport sector is evolving apace and across several different fronts.”
Procurement Shifts Towards Cost Efficiency
Procurement trends show a shift in buying preferences, with operators increasingly prioritizing the total cost of ownership (TCO) over initial purchase prices. The report indicates that 71% of businesses now emphasize TCO in their purchasing decisions, a 7% increase since 2020.
Moreover, the preference for pre-built, ready-to-work trucks continues to grow, with 71% of respondents favoring these options. The trend reflects a desire for efficient solutions that align with operational needs and can be quickly integrated into existing fleets.
Safety and Technology Take Centre Stage
The report highlights a continued emphasis on safety, with a growing adoption of active safety features. Technologies such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and lane keep assist are becoming increasingly standard, especially among larger fleets.
Telematics systems also see rising adoption, as companies seek to enhance driver safety, monitor behavior, and improve overall fleet efficiency. Larger businesses and government operators are leading the way, driven by compliance requirements and operational scale.
Electric Vehicles: A Mixed Outlook
Isuzu’s findings show strong interest in electric vehicles (EVs), with 91% of businesses considering some form of zero-emission strategy within the next decade. However, the timeline for widespread adoption varies, with concerns about charging infrastructure and long charging times tempering enthusiasm.
Nonetheless, electric trucks are expected to play a significant role in Australia’s transport future over the next 10-15 years, particularly in sectors such as transport, postal services, and warehousing.
[Also Read: Driving Towards a Sustainable Future: Six Developments this Month in the Trucking Industry]
Maintenance and Compliance in Focus
The report underscores the importance of proper truck maintenance and compliance with Chain of Responsibility (CoR) laws. While 70% of businesses have developed or are developing CoR policies, 30% still lack comprehensive strategies, raising concerns about safety and legal compliance.
Major repairs are predominantly carried out by OEM dealerships, reflecting the industry’s emphasis on quality workmanship and access to genuine parts. Additionally, the use of OEM components is preferred, with businesses citing benefits such as improved compliance and vehicle uptime.
[Also Read: Maintaining CoR Compliance with Manage Vehicle Software]
The Future of Trucking Report paints a picture of an industry prepared to adapt to rapid changes, with a growing focus on sustainability, technology integration, and strategic planning. Isuzu Australia emphasises that the sector’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial for its continued growth and success.
As the industry grapples with economic pressures and regulatory demands, the report highlights a willingness among operators to embrace innovative solutions and work towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
