Fleet operators are entering 2026 with higher expectations from passengers and more pressure to run efficiently. The fleets that win will focus on three areas, including technician retention, passenger expectations, and fleet management technology, each of which enables fleets to maintain operational excellence, fleet safety, and business growth.

To help fleet operators stay up to date, we’ve created and released the 2026 Industry Trends Report. Below, we’ll highlight three trends, but download the full report to get all the insights you need. 

Here’s what fleet operators should expect in 2026. 

3 Trends To Watch in 2026 

Trend #1: The Importance of Workforce and Technician Retention for Fleet Operations

Workforce shifts and technician retention are shaping fleet operations for many organizations. As the industry continues to grow in size, these shifts become increasingly essential to uptime, costs, and overall fleet operations. 

The American Bus Association shared, “According to the revised 2025 Economic Impact of Motorcoach Travel in the United States report, motorcoach activity generated $158 billion in total economic impact in 2024, supporting more than 890,000 jobs nationwide.” 

With this significant economic impact, it’s critical for fleets to focus on effective hiring, training, and retention techniques to maintain a competitive advantage and fleet success in 2026, especially since the industry is estimated to need nearly 1 million new technicians between 2024 and 2028, according to TechForce Foundation. 

In the full 2026 Industry Trends Report, we break down how this trend affects costs, uptime, and staffing, and what fleet leaders should prioritize next. 

Trend #2: Evolving Passenger Experience and Expectations 

Passenger expectations continue evolving, and as ridership in the United States continues to increase,17% nationwide from 2022 to 2023, according to the Federal Transit Administration, it’s important to know what passengers expect during their travels. 

Today’s passengers typically expect: 

• Connectivity
• Enjoyable interiors, including seating comfort and clean spaces
• Safety measures. 

By providing customers with the experience they want, they’ll be more inclined to return to your fleet for their upcoming transportation needs. If you’re unsure what else your customers expect, ask. An ongoing feedback system helps you stay aligned, improve continuously, and enhance your 2026 fleet performance. 

Get more tips to make the most of your customer experience with the full 2026 Industry Trends Report. 

Trend #3: The Continued Incorporation of Fleet Management Technology

Fleet technology is shifting significantly in 2026, and it’s essential for fleet operators to understand how and why to operate, plan, and invest effectively in their business. 

In 2026, fleet operators should expect greater adoption rates and technological advancements. As new fleet management technology becomes available, fleet operators need to keep an eye on the market to identify what they can use to help them grow their businesses. 

Telematics, for example, has been adopted quickly by the industry. The entire telematics industry has grown significantly, impacting businesses around the globe. By understanding the signs it’s time for preventative maintenance on your bus or shuttle and incorporating predictive technology into your fleet, you can reduce preventable breakdowns, unplanned downtime, and other issues. 

What Are The Biggest Trends Shaping the Fleet Industry? 

With significant industry growth and economic impact, it’s more important than ever to make the most of the transit market by utilizing the industry trends to grow your business. 

In addition to retention, passenger experience, and predictive technology, many other trends are shaping the fleet industry. To improve 2026 fleet performance, it’s also important for fleet operators to keep an eye on emissions and after-treatment discipline, regulatory timing around tariffs and insurance, parts access and serviceability, and more. Each of these areas can drive significant impact for businesses in the industry. 

Get The Fleet Insights You Need for a Successful 2026 

Since these elements are all essential, we’ve broken down eight trends that are transforming fleet performance this year in our 2026 Industry Trends Report. This report includes insights on the eight trends transforming fleet performance in 2026 and setting the stage for what’s next. Download the full 2026 Industry Trends Report today!