Managing fleet expenses has traditionally relied on fuel cards and multiple payment systems. As connected vehicle technology continues to evolve, that approach may soon look very different.
In a recent Fleet Auto News interview, Chris Tulloch, President, Custom Fleet, explains how vehicle-initiated payments could help simplify fleet operations by connecting vehicle-related expenses through smarter digital technology.

Fleet management is becoming increasingly digital.
Emerging payment technologies have the potential to allow vehicles to securely initiate payments for services such as refuelling, EV charging, tolls, parking and maintenance, reducing the need for multiple payment methods while giving fleet managers greater visibility and control over fleet spending.
For organisations, this could mean simpler administration and greater confidence that vehicle-related transactions are captured accurately.
The technology is already moving beyond concept.
Element Fleet Management, Custom Fleet's parent company, has acquired (opens in a new tab), expanding its connected payment capabilities across the global business.
The solution is already being introduced in other Element markets, with rollout to customers in New Zealand and Australia expected as deployment continues.
As connected mobility continues to evolve, investments like these reinforce Element's focus on delivering innovative fleet solutions that improve efficiency and create better customer experiences.
The value of connected technology extends beyond making payments.
When combined with telematics, utilisation reporting and Strategic Advisory Services, payment information can contribute to a more complete understanding of fleet operations.
These insights can support stronger financial management, improve operational planning and help organisations make more informed fleet decisions over time.
As Chris Tulloch explains in the Fleet Auto News interview, connected technologies are continuing to reshape the fleet industry.
While vehicle-initiated payments are still developing, they highlight the direction of travel for fleet management, where technology, data and expert advice work together to create more connected and efficient fleet operations.
At Custom Fleet, we're committed to helping organisations understand emerging technologies and identify where they can deliver practical value, supporting better fleet outcomes as the industry continues to evolve.
Discover Chris Tulloch's insights into the future of connected fleet payments in his interview with Fleet Auto News.
Read the full article: Vehicle-initiated payments could take fleets beyond digital fuel cards. (opens in a new tab)
Read Element’s press release: Element to acquire Car IQ, creating the fleet industry’s first scaled platform for intelligent, vehicle-initiated payments.