Developing digital capabilities and connectivity using the Internet of Things (IoT) has become a priority for many organizations. Especially in the logistics sector companies thrive to leverage digital technologies to gain a competitive edge and to solve their concerns over fleet maintenance, improving driver operation, vehicle failure, and real-time tracking monitoring of vehicles, etc.
In the USA, in 2015, there were 8 million GPS and wireless devices that tracked fleet vehicles, drivers, field service workers, and assets in the field, but today there are over 16 million units, which has nearly doubled from 2015.
Image source-Clem Driscoll Data & image courtesy – C.J. Driscoll & Associates
There are now more than 16 million GPS devices used for tracking fleet vehicles, drivers, assets & service staff. Compared to late 2018, this number was 13 million. It is expected that 20 million units will be in use by 2022.
What is the Role of Telematics & IoT Fleet Management?
The role of fleet vehicles in public transportation is crucial. It is crucial for fleet managers to supervise and organize vehicles for performance, maintenance, and tracking. Telematics solutions in fleet management mainly consist of collecting, storing, and analyzing data so it can be sent to fleet managers.
A fleet manager or owner can exploit these data to evaluate vehicle maintenance, driver performance, and cargo management to gain a competitive edge. With IoT-based fleet management, it can be radically transformed by capturing valuable data about vehicle performance, routes, passengers, and managing cargo.
With IoT sensors integrated into a fleet management platform, data can be mined and analyzed more efficiently and quickly. A near-real-time dashboard provides access to key metrics, such as fuel consumption, engine runtime, vehicle location, driver behaviors, vehicle maintenance history, and more.
IoT Fleet Management & Telematics Benefits and Use Cases
An IoT-enabled telematics system can benefit fleet management in several ways. When it comes to enhancing the security of their vehicles and assets, fleet managers can feel comfortable adopting solutions to improve fleet operations and predictive maintenance.
Telematics Cargo and Asset Management
Telematics plays a key role in supply chain management and logistics. During transportation, cargo is safe and secured through temperature monitoring, surveillance, and vibration sensors.
The cargo hold of a vehicle is controlled by monitoring the temperature so that perishable items such as food and medication can be kept fresh. Vibrating sensors ensure fragile goods are safe from breaking while in transit.
Fleet Maintenance
By integrating the latest telematics solutions, sensors in vehicles today monitor a vehicle’s performance and send alerts when oil, brake pads, or a battery needs to be changed.
Passenger Information System
The recent pandemic has given a rise to new services which will make passengers aware of any social distancing guidelines that must be adhered to while boarding, and if there are any accessible seats for people with disabilities. Passenger experience can be improved when touchless ticketing is connected to buses.
Vehicle Tracking and Route Information
Keeping track of the vehicle’s location improves efficiency. Drivers can take advantage of routing options to avoid traffic congestion, keep track of delays, and find the nearest truck for last-minute deliveries.
Driver Performance Assistance
A blind-spot assistance system and backup cameras can assist drivers by alerting them to objects blocking the road, pedestrians crossing the street, or other reckless drivers passing by. Cameras installed in the cabin can alert drivers to take a rest and suggest stops when necessary.
The right fleet management technology is key to ensuring organizations can reap the most benefits from IoT applications. Hence, you’ll need an integrated fleet management platform that lets you connect all your vehicles and existing systems seamlessly.
About the Author
Kaushal Naik
Kaushal Naik is working as a Marketer at eInfochips focus on various verticals like IoT, Cloud, and Security. He has more than 4 years of experience in corporate marketing, paid ads, branding, & inbound marketing. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar and loves photography.
