Multi-Objective Optimization in Strategic Fleet Management for Vehicle Rental Companies

This article proposes a multi-objective optimization model to support decision-making in the complex fleet renewal process for vehicle rental companies. The problem addresses the transition of vehicles from rental locations to resale points, a process requiring an intermediate step at specialized facilities for vehicle inspection and preparation. The model aims to simultaneously minimize two conflicting objectives: the total freight cost involved in moving the vehicles and the total number of inspection/preparation facilities to be used/deployed. Given the nature of this problem, which involves high capillarity and geographical dispersion, especially in the Brazilian context, precise mathematical modeling and effective solution methods are crucial for the operational and strategic efficiency of the business. This work details the problem formulation, optimization criteria, the proposed multi-objective mathematical model, and a methodology for its validation.