A first look at the Geotab GO9

The new Geotab GO device has arrived. Geotab has officially launched the Geotab GO9, a next generation fleet asset tracking device. What is Geotab GO9? Boby Multani, one of Geotab’s Product Owners, provides a walkthrough of the new features and explains why it’s the must-have IoT device for GPS fleet tracking.

What’s new in the Geotab GO9?

Although the GO9 has the same physical appearance as the GO8, internally, it has been redesigned from the ground up.

The GO9 features a powerful new 32-bit processor that makes it our most powerful telematics device to date. With this new device, you are getting four times more memory and five times more RAM than its predecessor, which dramatically improves longevity and lets it work with a wider array of functions.

We’ve also included the latest and greatest Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module to support increasingly accurate location data.

Like always, fleets can view vehicle location, trip history, and all their vehicle and driving trends data in MyGeotab.

What sets the GO9 apart from other fleet trackers?

GO9 is one of the most important iterations of GO products as it provides a framework for our new platform and extended capabilities related to electric vehicles (EVs) and global expansion.

What other stand out features does the GO9 have?

The addition of a gyroscope is something to note. Geotab already offers exceptional harsh-event data (acceleration, braking, cornering, etc.) and collision reconstruction through our patented algorithms and the GO device’s accelerometer. The inclusion of a gyroscope in the GO9 enriches the data with additional granularity.

The gyroscope improves on the current X/Y/Z axis acceleration logging by providing a real-time sense of the vehicle's orientation. This allows the GO9 to track and analyze vehicle movement more accurately than before, particularly on winding or bumpy roads. The enhanced level of data is especially important for collision reconstruction, where a more in-depth, second-by-second breakdown of events is required.

Have the device dimensions changed?

Geotab’s engineering team at has been able to add functionality without needing to change the device’s dimensions or shape. Fleets can enjoy all the added benefits of the Geotab GO9 while simplifying installations by offering the same consumer friendly form-factor.

What vehicles are compatible with the GO9?

The GO9 offers new vehicle compatibility while maintaining the existing library of vehicles supported in previous GO devices. Also, the extra code space in the GO9 extends the lifespan of the product, to support the next generation of vehicles.

Does the GO9 work with electric vehicles?

The fleet landscape is changing. More fleets are adopting or considering electric vehicles. Geotab built its new device with this in mind. The GO9 offers the same EV support as the GO8, plus it has the capability to expand to future needs.

Even if your fleet does not have EVs, or is just in the early stages of going electric, the GO9 is a great choice because it means you will be ready when the time comes. The GO9 along with the Geoab open platform gives you the flexibility to support future use cases as the market and technology shifts.

Do fleets need to upgrade to the GO9?

No, they do not. Geotab will continue to support GO6 to GO8 with firmware updates to improve the functionality of the devices where possible. Since the GO9 is a better long term foundation, we recommend that fleets update to the latest GO device where applicable. In summary, there is no need to replace devices unless the older devices are unable to provide the required level of support for that vehicle type.

If you haven’t tried Geotab yet, you can request a free demo here.

What hardware accessories are compatible with GO9?

The GO device supports many additional use cases when combined with the Geotab IOX input-out expanders. Some examples of IOX expansion include Driver ID, satellite tracking, using GO TALK for in-cab driver coaching or adding a USB charger. These hardware Add-Ons allow fleets to seamlessly integrate with third-party hardware and partners, and get more from their fleet management system.

Where can I find the product specifications for the GO9 and more info?

Learn more about the Geotab GO9 at geotab.com

Related:

Guide to Geotab IOX Add-Ons

Why Choose an Open Platform System for Fleet Management?