Very few organisations operate without using the road. With the onus on operators to lower emissions, meet safety targets and ensure vehicle efficiency, many companies are using telematics technology to optimise their fleet management processes.
What is fleet telematics?
Fleet telematics is a combination of telecommunications and informatics (using computer systems to collect, store and manage data). It uses a combination of GPS technology and onboard diagnostics to monitor, track, and manage fleets of vehicles. In doing so, fleet managers – and individual drivers – can gather and analyse data on parameters such as vehicle location, speed, fuel consumption, engine health, and driver behaviour.
Fleet telematics: seven good reasons to take the plunge
1. Telematics can improve fleet efficiency:
Using GPS tracking combined with live traffic data, drivers and fleet managers can optimise route planning. As well as the more obvious benefits of reducing idle time and fuel consumption, accessing this data also allows companies to schedule and reroute drivers more effectively. For larger delivery companies or fleets of service technicians, tracking driver locations can also be used to manage customer expectations around arrival times.
2. Telematics can actively improve safety by monitoring driver behaviour
Driver safety is a huge priority for any fleet manager. Telematics systems can be used to monitor driver behaviour, including speed, harsh braking and other driving habits. By identifying risky practices, fleet managers can implement driver training programmes and improve safety across the fleet. Data can also be used to reduce fuel costs and driver performance (more on that below!).
3. Telematics data can be used to negotiate insurance premiums
Using stored data and in-built system analysis, The Fuel Store’s telematics system, Fuel Connect, provides each driver with a score based on driver behaviours. Data can be used to establish and maintain consistently high scores across the fleet and then shared with insurance companies to reduce premiums. Some customers have achieved a 70% reduction on their premium!
4. Telematics can reduce business costs
When it comes to calculating a return on investment, telematics systems can pay for themselves pretty quickly. Gathering fleet management data and identifying areas for improvement can result in significant cost savings. Scheduling and routing vehicles more efficiently can reduce fuel spend, while improving driving habits can reduce vehicle wear and tear and maintenance costs and reduce the risk of costly accidents.
5. Telematics can help boost compliance
Telematics systems can help fleet managers comply with regulations related to driver hours, such as the health and safety at work act, as well as DVSA vehicle inspections. They can also help with supporting and evidencing sustainability commitments by providing actionable insights about fleet emissions.
6. Telematics can be used to implement preventative maintenance
Efficient fleet maintenance and an understanding of vehicle health is vital for minimising downtime and reducing repair costs. The Fuel Store’s telematics solution enables you to stay in control of vehicle maintenance by tracking service history and scheduling timely reminders. Real-time fault code detection allows fleet managers to catch vehicle defects early and receive instant alerts, allowing for prompt assessments and repairs which reduce costly vehicle downtime.
7. Telematics provides actionable business insights
Fleet telematics systems enable businesses to make data-driven decisions by transforming raw data into actionable insights. Fleet managers can identify trends, evaluate performance metrics, and improve operational efficiency through detailed analytics. As a result, data can be strategically used to enhance efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
Choosing the right telematics and fleet management software:
There are a lot of fleet telematics solutions to choose from. Before making the leap, consider the size and type of your fleet, the tracking metrics you need, and your budget. Solutions can benefit a range of businesses from small one-driver operations to multinationals.
- Sole traders may need access to different data sets than large businesses; delivery companies and third-party logistics may need a different data set from a taxi firm; construction companies are likely to need different data yet again: make sure you find a supplier that fits your business.
- Consider the telematics device itself. How big is it? Is it compatible with your vehicles? Where will it sit within the vehicle? How complex is the installation? How do you access the data? How does it keep its charge?
- Consider working with providers who offer a single point of contact for a range of solutions that support good fleet management.
With the right fleet management solution, businesses gain actionable insights, increase safety, reduce fuel consumption, and embrace proactive maintenance.
Ready to get started with fleet telematics?
For businesses seeking to enhance efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness across their fleet operations, telematics is the answer. By leveraging real-time data and advanced analytics, companies can gain a competitive edge.
Speak to our team now to unlock the full potential of your fleet management operations.