DALLAS, TX – Richard Fisher believes that fleets are increasingly viewing the types of seats they spec for their vehicles as a major driver retention tool – a view being backed in part by some truck OEMs.
“The importance of seat comfort really depends on driver ability,” explained Fisher, account manager for Battle Creek, MI-based truck seat maker Isringhausen. “If there’s a limited pool of drivers available, then fleets will look at ways to keep their drivers happy. One of those methods is, of course, comfort, and seats have a big impact on driver comfort.”
Fisher said Volvo Trucks has made his company’s seats standard on its Class 8 models, while Peterbilt and Kenworth now offer them as options, because more and more fleets are looking at addressing driver comfort as a retention issue.
“As much as anything, it helps fleets address a major driver complaint,” he told Fleet Owner at the Great American Truck Show. “More comfortable seats mean fewer driver complaints to the people that make the truck purchase decision. It also has an impact on workers comp and liability issues, as cab comfort can translate into better rested and happier drivers.”