Element-Arval 2025 Barometer report: ANZ Businesses confident in fleet growth

According to the 2025 Barometer, most companies expect their fleets to either stay the same or grow over the next three years — a trend that’s remained steady for the past two years and aligns closely with what’s happening in Europe.

In Australia, 90% of companies surveyed anticipate stability or growth, with 21% expecting to increase their fleet size.

In New Zealand, confidence is even higher — 96% of companies expect no decline, and 22% are planning for growth.

This outlook holds true regardless of company size or fleet type, whether it's passenger vehicles or light commercial vehicles.

Growth driven by business needs

Business development is the main reason companies are expanding their fleets. It’s the leading driver for both markets — 72% of growing Australian businesses and 84% in New Zealand say that’s what’s pushing them forward.

In Australia, other key reasons include HR needs (45%) and plans to offer vehicles to more employees (44%) — such as those who previously weren’t eligible for company cars.

In New Zealand, though, there’s a stronger focus on shared vehicle models (36%), and HR needs have taken a back seat, dropping to just 27%, well below the European average.

A shift toward second-hand vehicles

Second-hand vehicles are also gaining traction.

In Australia, 25% of companies already use second-hand vehicles, and another 55% are considering it within the next three years.

In New Zealand, the shift is even more pronounced: 48% already use them, and 42% are exploring the option.

Smaller businesses in New Zealand are particularly open to the idea, with nearly half planning to include second-hand vehicles in future fleet planning.

Passenger cars tend to be the more common choice, but interest in second-hand light commercial vehicles is growing fast — especially in New Zealand, where over half of the businesses are considering them.

These vehicles are primarily used as pool cars and tool cars, offering a cost-effective, flexible solution for a wide range of operational needs.

Fleet confidence remains high

More businesses in Australia and New Zealand are turning to practical, sustainable solutions like second-hand vehicles to keep moving forward.

Downloads

• Australian 2025 Barometer report (9.58MB, PDF)
• New Zealand 2025 Barometer report (10.2MB, PDF)
• To download the full report, visit Element’s website.