Telematics is a solution developed to manage fleets of vehicles. It uses a mix of both hardware and software to track and monitor the vehicles, trailers, tractors and any asset of high value. In addition to its tracking capabilities it can also be used to automate a lot of processes across multiple departments.
There are several telematic tools that can be tailored according to the business and its fleet. When used in combinations, they can be used to execute various tasks that usually require manpower. As a result, fleet managers rely heavily on telematics to manage and maintain their fleet.
Here are a few commonly used telematic tools:
GPS Tracking Device
This is the main device that is connected to the onboard processor of the vehicle, using the OBD/JBUS port, depending on the type of vehicle. It can also be hardwired but that would only limit its capabilities. The device is a plug and play device that can be installed effortlessly. It serves as a link between the vehicle and phone/computer.
Using this device not only ensures safety and protection against theft but also improves a business's bottom-line and boosts productivity. It helps reduce costs with respect to fuel and vehicle maintenance by the following:
Route Optimization
The device can automatically assign the best route by considering factors such as shortest distance, number of required stops, traffic, road and weather conditions as well as the next destination. This alone is responsible for saving a lot of expenses on fuel in a business. Most of the businesses that rely on this are ones that have multiple delivery routes.
Reduced Fuel Costs
The device gives an accurate reading of the fuel levels and also monitors fuel usage, which can be compiled into a report. Using this the fleet manager can determine the drivers fuel consumption habits and give feedback accordingly. It also allows them to be able to toggle between two modes, business and personal trips.
This allows for transparency and promotes a health work environment, and every employee has a sense of accountability. By monitoring driving habits, the fleet manager can track the duration of the idling time and give necessary feedback to the drivers to reduce it. Idling is one of the major reasons for fuel wastage.
Scheduled Maintenance and Engine Alerts
The device sends out an alert, when the vehicle is due for maintenance. This is a preemptive measure to ensure the vehicle is safety compliant and also to avoid any breakdowns during a trip. When a vehicle breaks down, there are additional costs such as towing charges and repairs. This can be avoided by scheduling regular vehicle maintenance.
ELDs
This is a device that is now a mandate issued by the FMCSA and is very useful to both the driver and the fleet manager. It records every incident of the vehicle such as ignition, braking, steering and so on. These events are stored digitally in the form of logs called E logs. They help eliminate paperwork and allow more time to focus on other areas.
The data from the E logs is compiled into reports that are extremely accurate and generated almost instantly. It can be used to generate reports such as IFTA quarterly reports, road tax, trip summaries, etc. When used along with Dash cams they can be used to validate the data from the E logs, by reviewing the footage and assessing it accordingly.
Dashboard Cameras
These cameras are attached to the vehicle to monitor the driver and its surroundings. It promotes safety and also good driving habits. This camera has an internal store and internet connectivity. It constantly uploads videos from the time of ignition in 3-minute segments, which can be reviewed at any time, remotely.
At times, drivers would be forced to act according to the situation on the road, causing them to violate rules. In such cases, the fleet manager reviews the tape and then takes a call. It is very important when claiming insurance if there is any theft or accident. Video evidence holds a lot of weight in the court of law and is considered to be extremely reliable.
Fleet Management Software
This software helps fleet managers track and monitor the location and status of their vehicles. It is customized accordingly to each business it caters, to work at its maximum potential. This software has a range of functions that come in handy for fleet managers. The software can be used along with ELDs to generate reports such as IFTA quarterly reports.
The fleet management software can be considered an asset management tool and it also works as a dispatching software that accepts new orders and deploys drivers automatically, assigning to them optimized routes. This helps the business not only save money but also boost productivity and promote a healthy work environment.
This software makes the fleet manager’s work so much more convenient, as they can manage and maintain an entire fleet remotely. The fleet tracking software can also be used to create geofences to ensure that drivers do not make unauthorized stops and are alerted if the vehicle has cross the geofence.
