Coates, Australia’s largest industrial and general equipment hire company, has made significant strides in improving fleet maintenance management and reducing emissions from its hire fleet. As part of its broader sustainability strategy, Coates has implemented measures to enhance operational efficiency, adopt cleaner technologies, and work towards achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
Coates Fleet and Operational Scope
Coates operates over 150 branches across Australia and manages a fleet exceeding one million pieces of equipment. With nearly 2,000 employees, Coates serves critical industries such as construction, engineering, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, and major events.
The company’s extensive fleet and national presence position it as a key player in supporting Australia’s infrastructure and construction sector. It plays a crucial role in the country’s $1.7 trillion, seven-year infrastructure pipeline, providing essential equipment solutions while addressing sustainability challenges.
Improvements in Fleet Maintenance Management
Coates has transformed its fleet maintenance processes to increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance safety. Key initiatives include:
Implementation of Hub-and-Spoke Maintenance Model
- Coates has rolled out a hub-and-spoke model to optimise maintenance efficiency across its network. This model centralises repairs and maintenance, reducing turnaround times and improving fleet reliability.
Technology-Driven Fleet Management
- The company has integrated IoT and telemetry solutions on over 10,000 assets, allowing real-time monitoring of equipment performance. These systems enable predictive maintenance, reducing unnecessary servicing and ensuring fleet utilisation is optimised.
Eco-Efficient Equipment Upgrades
- Coates is investing in hybrid and battery-powered equipment to reduce reliance on diesel-powered machinery. The company has allocated $28 million to expand its lower-carbon equipment fleet, which now represents 8% of total fleet value.
Enhanced Transport and Logistics Planning
- By using data analytics to optimise transport routes and scheduling, Coates has significantly reduced fuel consumption across its fleet. This initiative aligns with its commitment to reducing emissions while maintaining service efficiency.
Coates’ Plans to Reduce Fleet Emissions
Coates is actively working to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with an ambitious target of achieving net zero by 2040. As part of its roadmap, the company is implementing several measures:
Solar-Powered Branches and Facilities
- Coates has installed solar panels at 26 branches, generating renewable energy to power operations. These installations have reduced the company’s Scope 2 emissions by 9%, preventing an estimated 861 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
Fleet Electrification and Low-Emission Vehicles
- Coates is trialling electric and hybrid light vehicles within its operational fleet, driving nearly 66,000 electric kilometres in FY24, reducing fuel consumption by 5,500 litres and cutting 11 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Sustainable Equipment Offerings for Customers
- The company’s “Greener Choices” initiative provides customers with low-emission alternatives, including battery-powered tools, biofuel-compatible machinery, and hybrid generators. These options are designed to help customers reduce their project-based emissions.
Circular Economy Approach
- Coates follows a circular economy model by maximising equipment lifecycle efficiency, refurbishing and recycling components, and diverting waste from landfills. The company has recycled over 11,000 end-of-life plastic barriers, incorporating 10% recycled content into new barriers.
Future Plans for Renewable Energy Expansion
- Coates aims to introduce net-zero specifications for new facilities, further expand solar power installations, and continue electrification of its fleet equipment to replace traditional diesel-powered machinery.
A Market Leader in Sustainable Equipment Solutions
Coates’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond internal operations. The company actively collaborates with customers and industry stakeholders to promote greener construction and infrastructure projects. Through its sustainable procurement program and strategic investments in low-emission technologies, Coates is playing a vital role in Australia’s transition towards cleaner, more efficient industrial practices.
By leveraging IoT-driven maintenance, eco-efficient fleet upgrades, and renewable energy solutions, Coates Hire is setting a benchmark for sustainability in the equipment hire industry. With a clear pathway towards reducing emissions and improving fleet efficiency, the company is well-positioned to meet its net zero by 2040 commitment while supporting Australia’s growing infrastructure and construction sector.
Coates’ efforts in fleet maintenance management and emission reduction demonstrate a proactive approach to tackling environmental challenges while maintaining its position as Australia’s leading equipment hire company.
