How to Boost Fleet Operations with Telematics

It’s astounding what automation and technology have produced in such a short time. From riding a driverless car to having your packages delivered by a drone, it seems as though creative innovation is near limitless. Fleet operations are another great example of automation and optimization using the right technology – telematics.

For commercial fleets, telematics has had a major impact; as technology has evolved, so too has its capabilities, making it invaluable to fleet managers. In this article, we will explain modern telematics and show you how it can augment your operations and help you manage an entire fleet from the palm of your hand.

What Is Telematics?

Simply defined, telematics is a field that encompasses vehicle technology, telecommunications, computer science and electrical engineering.

With regards to fleet operations, telematics can be employed to monitor mobile assets such as vehicles and equipment. In this example, telematics uses on-board diagnostics to track a vehicle’s status and is able to send data to a centralized database. 

This information can be used for a variety of purposes, from route optimization and driver training to maintenance scheduling.

Telematics is constantly evolving, but its roots date back to the 1970s when it was first used for tracking commercial vehicles. In the early days, telematics systems were large, expensive and not very user-friendly. 

But as with all things, time and technology have a way of making even the most complex systems more accessible and affordable.

What Can Telematics Do For My Fleet Operations?

The benefits of a comprehensive telematics system are innumerable. There are so many ways that this technology can be leveraged, and just as many industries that can benefit from its implementation. 

The following are just a few examples of the many capabilities telematics systems boast and the positive impacts they offer to fleet operations.

Reduced Fuel Costs

Fuel costs have always been a concern for fleet managers, but have recently become top of mind given the massive price climbs we’ve seen over the past months. Inflation paired with a volatile market have driven the cost of fuel up to record highs, and despite recent dips, there’s no telling how high prices will continue to climb.

A telematics system can help you take control of your fuel spending in two ways. First, by providing you with real-time data on your vehicle’s fuel level, consumption and mileage, so you can make more informed decisions about when and where to refuel. 

This data can also help you identify vehicles that may idle excessively, have improper tire inflation or have other issues that are causing them to consume more fuel than necessary.

Second, telematics can be used to optimize routes and schedules in a way that minimizes fuel consumption.

By factoring in real-time traffic data, weather conditions and vehicle performance, a telematics system can help you plan routes that avoid congestion and get your drivers to their destination efficiently.

Streamlined Fleet Operations

Many fleets are still using paper-based systems to track vehicles, schedule maintenance and complete other important tasks. 

A telematics system can help you automate and digitize your fleet operations and put all the information you need right at your fingertips.

For example, with a telematics system, you can see all your vehicles in real-time on a digital map and plan the most efficient routes for each driver. 

Improved Maintenance Scheduling

You can also use a telematics system to schedule and track maintenance, monitor vehicle diagnostics and much more. 

By tracking a vehicle’s mileage, fuel level and engine performance, telematics can help you proactively schedule maintenance and repair services.

These data insights can also help diagnose issues before they become major problems, helping you avoid costly downtime and keeping your vehicles on the road.

Enhanced Driver Safety

Driver safety is a top priority for fleet managers, and telematics can be a valuable tool in keeping your drivers safe on the road. 

A telematics system enabled with features such as speed limit alerts and geofencing can help you keep tabs on your drivers and ensure compliance. 

Additionally, many telematics systems offer crash detection capabilities that can automatically notify emergency services in the event of an accident.

Theft Prevention

In addition to the financial loss of stolen vehicles, there is also the cost of downtime. A telematics system can help you prevent theft by giving you real-time alerts if a vehicle is moved without authorization. This feature can be particularly useful if you have vehicles that are parked overnight or in other high-risk areas.

There are endless ways that telematics can improve your fleet operations. Contact your ZenduiT consultant today to optimize your fleet and automate your business.