Optimizing Telematics

The greatest advances in telematics have occurred mostly over the last 5-7 years. Fleet managers were once only able to track the location, movement, and excessive speeds of their vehicles and drivers. Now, telematics monitor vehicle operations and routing, increase company revenue and efficiency, and observe driver behavior. 

A Bobit Business Media survey surveyed over 1,000 commercial and government fleets and found that 92% of respondents said telematics had positive effects on their fleet. Productivity was named a major benefit of telematics by 59% of respondents, which was rated just ahead of decreased fuel consumption and improved routing in importance. Respondents also said they saw an average decrease of:

• 10% in fuel consumption, with some citing a decrease of up to 40%
• Nearly 12% in labor costs
• 21% in accident costs

What else can telematics offer your fleet?

1. Gauging Maintenance

Telematics can track the actual engine hours your vehicles run, not just those reflected on your odometer. This can give you a better idea of when your vehicle needs maintenance and help prevent breakdowns and reduce out-of-commission time. Some software specializes in maintenance and can alert drivers to issues they might not notice.

2. Reducing Idling

Your telematics can track the amount of time your drivers allow your vehicles to idle and allow you to implement new strategies to reduce this time. Tracking your vehicles’ locations can also help. Vehicles in colder climates will most likely have greater idling times, but you can ask drivers to reduce their idling time to 5-10 minutes or less. Teach drivers to turn vehicles off when on break, working around the yard, or when loading or unloading and watch as your idling time drops.

3. Downsizing the Fleet

Without telematics, most companies replace their vehicles on a set schedule. The data in your telematics software allows you to see which vehicles need replacing based on their use and status, not a pre-existing schedule. Use this information to decide where each vehicle can best be used.

4. Better Tracking

It’s no surprise that telematics can help with improved vehicle tracking. Telematics can help with dispatching, billing prep, field and job tracking, and dealing with theft. Use this technology in several kinds of assets, including golf carts, lawn mowers, construction equipment, underwater vehicles, and more.

5. Improved Routing

Use your telematics software to improve your routing to job sites and deliveries. Vehicle tracking will offer more accurate arrival times and help drivers avoid areas with construction, congestion, or other hazards.

6. Safety Monitoring

Not always an employee favorite, driver monitoring can help you improve safety and prevent damages. Telematics software can track hard-braking, seatbelt use, and speeding and issue accident reports for disputed incidents. Keep your drivers safe and protect your fleet from external and internal damages.

7. Gain Employee Efficiency

Use the data you collect to educate your employees and encourage them to participate in your efforts. Give your drivers incentives to keep safe and efficient driving records. Use the information you collect to show your employees where they need to improve and help them reach new goals.
Visit this article for more information on optimizing telematics. For information on our fleet vehicle installations, contact us at 866-2WIRE-IT.