What is the value of telematics?

What is telematics?

Telematics is a method of monitoring cars, trucks, equipment and other assets by using GPS technology and on-board diagnostics (OBD) to track the movement of these vehicles, and other assets, on a computerized map. It is also known as fleet tracking or GPS vehicle tracking. 

Telematics in Asia-Pacific

Based on the analysis conducted by Asia-Pacific telematics market report 2020-2025, the automotive industry will see a huge transformation with the entry of new industries utilizing IoT technology and new services such as ride-sharing and car sharing. This results in a need for fast data transmission, analysis and implementation which will further drive the growth of telematics in this region.

How can telematics help me in my fleet management?

Telematics is a key enabler to the success of your business. It keeps the operation of fleets efficient, safe and sustainable. Very often, we see these similar concerns raised by our customers or fleet managers through our interactions with them, especially for markets in Southeast Asia. To name a few, they include: 

• Is my driver driving safely?
• Is the vehicle idling?
• How much is the fuel consumption?

This is where telematics becomes an essential solution for fleet management. It provides answers to these questions. 

Understanding driver’s behavior

Speeding, harsh braking and cornering are dangerous driving behaviour that can be detected via our fleet management system. With these data insights, you can improve your drivers’ driving practices through coaching to improve fleet driver safety, promote greater efficiency of your fleets and generate cost savings. 

Vehicle idling 

An idling vehicle increases fuel consumption, adds stress to your engine and increases operational costs. A few common scenarios may include a driver who leaves the car for a toilet break or grabs a bite at the petrol kiosk while leaving the vehicle’s engine running. According to an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), idling burns up to an eighth of a gallon of diesel fuel per hour and vehicles that idle more than 50% of their time experience higher maintenance costs. This can be very costly to your business operations. One of the tools we offer to help businesses manage vehicle idling, improve fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions is via the Green Fleet Dashboard, available on the Geotab Marketplace. 

See also: Increase sustainability with the Green Fleet Dashboard

Fuel consumption

Fuel is a major operating cost for fleets and there is constant pressure for businesses to manage cost. A telematics solution is able to track vehicle idling, speeding, tire pressure and vehicle details to provide insight on how much fuel your fleets are using and why. Therefore,  you can optimize your vehicle utilisation and implement effective measures to improve fuel efficiency.

Of course, the role and benefits of telematics in fleet management is more than just that. With the right telematics solution, fleet managers can improve business performance, reduce operating cost and innovate for the future. 

Want to learn more? Find out how you can simplify fleet management with Geotab by scheduling a demo.