Fuel cards have long been used to track and manage fuel expenses, but the 2025 State of Fleet Cards Report by Shell Fleet Solutions reveals they’re now becoming critical tools for optimizing broader fleet operations. While fuel cost control remains the primary driver for adoption, modern fuel cards also deliver operational data, enhance security, support sustainability, and reduce administrative burdens—yet surprisingly, over one-third of fleet managers still aren’t using them.
Key Benefits of Fuel Cards
The report highlights that 95% of fleet managers believe fuel cards provide valuable operational insights. These cards are no longer just about pump discounts—they serve as a centralized platform for managing multiple fleet challenges:
- Expense Tracking & Budgeting:
- 49% of fleet managers say fuel cards help track expenses.
- 47% use them to improve budgeting and forecasting.
- Spending Controls:
- 43% use them to set spending limits per card.
- 40% find them essential for reducing unauthorized fuel usage.
- Fraud Protection & Security:
- 40% noted enhanced fraud protection as a key benefit.
- The Shell Card uses Level III data, encryption, and driver/vehicle verification to mitigate fraud—a top concern cited by 20% of non-users.
- Administrative Relief:
- 37% of managers report reduced administrative workload.
- Despite digital options, many still rely on spreadsheets (25%) or paper records (25%) to manage fuel expenses.
- Reporting & Insights:
- 32% value comprehensive fuel consumption data.
- 28% struggle to consolidate data manually, emphasizing the need for digital solutions.
- Tax Reclaim Support:
- 29% cited help with tax-related processes as another key perk.
Fuel Cards & Fleet Electrification
Fuel cards are also evolving to support fleet electrification. The Shell Card Business Flex offers access to public EV charging and supports at-home charging at residential rates. For larger fleets, Shell’s Accelerate to Zero program assists companies in meeting decarbonization goals while maintaining efficiency.
Differences Between Large and Small Fleets
Adoption rates and priorities vary based on fleet size:
Large Fleets (70% Adoption):
- Focus on operational efficiency, security, and broad station access.
- Face tougher challenges in cost reduction (40%) and data consolidation (38%).
- Often have more data but struggle with leveraging it effectively.
Small Fleets (60% Adoption):
- Prioritize direct cost savings and need help with compliance and reporting tools.
- More likely to experience issues with incomplete driver reports or missing consumption data.
The report underscores that modern fuel cards are much more than a payment tool. For both small businesses and large enterprises, they now play a central role in driving cost control, improving fleet visibility, and preparing for a sustainable future. As fuel costs fluctuate and the push toward electrification grows, fleet fuel cards offer unmatched value for operational agility.
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