What is Telematics?

The telematics data captured can include location, speed, idling time, harsh acceleration or braking, fuel consumption, vehicle faults, and more. When analyzed for particular events and patterns, this information can provide in-depth insights across an entire fleet.

Many modern commercial vehicle manufacturers install embedded gps tracking and telematics technologies directly in their fleet vehicles. If a vehicle does not come with this technology pre-installed, aftermarket GPS devices are available for installation. These can be battery powered or powered via the vehicle`s own internal electrical system.
Some OEMs, including Volvo, Mack, Hino, Ford, and GM, also partner with telematics providers to provide a seamless end user experience. In the coming years, it`s likely that the automotive industry will continue to develop smart cars that use telematics to deliver better results for their customers. These systems will also capitalize on the emerging Internet of Things (IoT) landscape that can help connect vehicles to cities and smart traffic technologies.

Telematics solutions can integrate with existing applications and systems to enable an array of use cases for fleets of all sizes, including:

Vehicle tracking: Vehicles can be tracked using a combination of GPS satellites and receivers, GPRS networks and cloud computing. A GPS receiver downloads information from GPS satellites and processes it for use with applications such as driver GPS navigation systems. It also transmits that information via GPRS to the web servers used by office-based staff, where it can be used to dispatch the nearest driver to a new job.

Trailer and asset tracking: Fleets can attach GPS trackers to trailers and other non-motorized assets to ensure they don't go missing, as well as use them to route drivers directly to stationary trailers. Drivers can tag locations in their GPS unit when unhitching a trailer, and those coordinates can be easily passed on, allowing them to route directly to the trailer. The system can also be set up so that an instant alert is sent to a manager's mobile device should a trailer or asset be moved without authorization.

Maintenance improvements: Vehicle maintenance and asset lifecycle management can be improved by using fleet telematics to track hours-of-use records and schedule preventative maintenance, as well as help keep tabs on warranty recovery, engine hour tracking and service records tracking. Fleet managers can decrease expenses and keep vehicles in safe operating condition by staying on top of engine diagnostics, including battery voltage, coolant temperature, powertrain malfunctions, intake valve issues, oxygen sensor problems, and more.

Learn how a telematics solution can give you the insights you need to transform your business.

Safety tracking: Managers can use fleet telematics to monitor vehicle speed and location, as well as harsh driving events and seat belt use. Telematics provides a digital blueprint of every aspect of a vehicle`s operation, helping fleet managers understand where improvements can be made in accident prevention measures and driver safety standards.

Insurance risk assessment: Insurance companies can use telematics to monitor driver behavior, allowing them to more accurately determine risk factors and adjust insurance premiums accordingly. Telematics devices can also report when a vehicle is used in a location outside a designated area, known as a geofence.