There is a lot that fleet managers and owners need to know about vehicle tracking and telematics. These are two concepts that work hand in hand to propel this industry forward. Although they have been around for many years, acceptance and heavy use started a few decades ago. For a better understanding, we will look at what each one of them means, how they are applied today and what the future holds for them.
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Vehicle Tracking
Fleet vehicles are equipped with a GPS radio, which communicates with a satellite to determine the coordinates of the vehicle. This data is then sent to a computerized device that displays the information on a dashboard used by fleet managers. GPS is a form of telematics because it provides communication between the vehicles and the fleet company.
Telematics
This is a broader way of looking at all technologies that provide long-distance communication from vehicle to vehicle or vehicle to other remote locations. Fleet solution innovators have now developed a variety of solutions for such communication as seen on Eyeride online. For the sake of those who do not know, such solutions include but are not limited to the following technologies.
Internet Connectivity –
It provides a communication platform for many devices and enables real-time communication.
Cellular Networks –
As an older communication platform between drivers and their employers, cellular networks are still used in many ways to make communication possible.
GPS Tracking –
As mentioned, tracking the vehicle location in real-time is possible because of the communication that occurs between the device fitted in vehicles, the satellite in space and the dashboard used by a fleet company.
Real-Time Dashcams –
Technology is becoming more amazing by the day. Today, dashcams can stream live footage to a remote device through the use of the internet. They are also synchronized with GPS to show the actual location of the fleet vehicles.
Real-Time Passenger Counters –
Lastly, passenger counters relay information to a remote device in real-time so that fleet managers and owners can have facts at any time.
The Future of Vehicle Tracking and Telematics
When we think that we have seen it all in fleet solutions, the future is about to give us a big surprise. One of the most significant predictions is the use of drones to monitor traffic and report in real time. This is anticipated to reduce delays on the road because the drivers can access the information on their dashboard screens and use the best routes. The use of autonomous vehicles, some of which are currently being tested, will also utilize telematics.
Trucks making deliveries will only need to communicate with the roads and amongst each other to maneuver through their journeys. However, they will be closely monitored by experienced managers at the base. Managers can intervene to make adjustments. Generally, vehicle tracking and telematics have a lot to offer in the future. Fleet vehicle investors should keep their eyes open to grab each opportunity that comes their way.
