Telematics software

Telematics System Challenges & How To Overcome Them

Telematics systems merge GPS, onboard diagnostics, and wireless communication to derive considerable benefits for fleet management and asset tracking.

But like most technology, these systems have their own set of challenges to provide reliable data collection and transmission because of them being prone to various kinds of reliability issues.

In this article, we will be discussing how your business can overcome these challenges and use your telematics system to the best of its ability.

 

Telematics system challenges

Here are some common challenges associated with telematics software.

Telematics hardware failure

Environmental factors such as adverse weather conditions, vibrations, and electrical issues may cause malfunctioning of telematics devices, including GPS receivers and diagnostic sensors.

For example, extremely high temperatures in summer or freezing conditions in winter can degrade performance in these devices, thereby causing loss of data reliability or even total system crashes.

Alongside this, the constant vibration from either road conditions or heavy usage can affect the sensitive components inside telematics hardware and make it prone to failure.

Cellular telematics network connectivity

Cellular network connectivity is another common challenge in telematics systems.

Telematics information normally travels via cellular networks, but in unpopulous areas, this turns into spotty coverage. In cities and towns, interference from a multitude of buildings and infrastructure causes poor signal quality, leading to difficulty in transmitting data from devices.

This will result in lost or late data transmissions, affecting the timeliness and accuracy of the information used for fleet management.

Power supply issues

Telematics devices depend on constant power from the battery of the vehicle. A weakening battery or improper connection can prevent the flow of power to the device and make the gathering and transmitting of data inconsistent.

In some instances, fluctuations in power make devices shut down and lose contact with the network, thus leading to a loss of data. Because many telematics systems are designed to collect data in real time, any disruption in service can have a great impact on solution effectiveness.

Telematics software bugs and glitches

Even state-of-the-art telematics systems are prone to software bugs and other glitches. These glitches could result in erroneous data collected or processed, reports with inaccuracies, or malfunctioning systems.

Sometimes, software bugs lead to the collapse of the entire telematics platform, therefore resulting in wasted time and loss of important data. These kinds of glitches undermine the general reliability of the system, making it highly critical that they are addressed immediately before they manifest themselves.

Cyber threats for telematics

As vehicles and fleets become increasingly connected, telematics systems are consistently seen as more hackable, in which hackers may aim to obtain sensitive information and manipulate the system or even take control of on-road vehicles.

A data breach could result in data loss, theft, or unauthorised vehicle usage, resulting in significant business and fleet operator risks. As telematics systems continue to evolve, so does the potential impact of a cyberattack, strengthening the need for cybersecurity.

This fleet crime article discusses key statistics as to why you need security for your telematics systems.

 

Telematics strategies to overcome these challenges

Here’s how you can prevent these challenges before they happen.

Invest in durable telematics hardware

To deal with the risk of hardware malfunctioning, you should invest in telematics devices designed to be rugged, durable, and hence better adapted to the most extreme environmental conditions.

Our telematics services can greatly reduce the possibility of malfunction because the devices are specified to resist extreme temperatures, heavy vibrations, and exposure to the elements.

Extra protection may also be afforded by devices offering extended warranties against failure, usually quickly resolving any hardware failures.

Prioritise cellular connectivity

In an effort to combat issues that seem to be occasioned by cellular connectivity, it’s important that a telematics provider be chosen with strong partnerships across multiple cellular networks such as Fuel Card Services.

This will ensure dependable coverage for your telematics devices within your operating areas, including remote and rural areas. In addition, you should seek out a system that allows multi-network compatibility; with this feature, devices automatically switch between carriers for the best possible signal strength and reduce the disruption in data transmission.

Guarantee a continuous and secure power supply for your telematics system

To prevent the possibility of any disruption, it is quite essential to ensure that power is supplied not only continuously, but also securely.

Telematics devices should be installed appropriately, having secure connections with the vehicle battery for continuous power. It is worth noting the units which provide either backup power sources or low-power modes can further the time of uptime during power fluctuations or when the vehicle battery is low.

Learn more about our fleet management software.

Regular telematics software updates

The implementation of regular software updates will go a long way in mitigating some of the risks associated with software bugs and glitches. The telematics provider should put in place a system whereby timely updates are affected both on the telematics devices and the management platform.

Most updates are bug fixes, often adding performance enhancements and security patches that help maintain the system’s reliability and reduce the chances of errors or malfunction.

Strengthen cybersecurity measures

Probably the most important aspect of telematics system reliability is cybersecurity. Telematics data should be transferred via secure channels, applying strong encryption algorithms.

That means that even if the data is intercepted, it will be unreadable. Telematics providers must keep assessing their systems for vulnerabilities and patch them on time. Then, severe access control can be provided using multilevel authentication and role-based user access.

Proactive fleet maintenance telematics

Preventing issues in both hardware and software requires proactive maintenance. Check-ups and regular maintenance schedules allow for the identification and fixing of potential problems before they lead to system failures.

This consists of cleaning and checking devices, wear and tear assessments, and updating software in order to keep all telematics devices at peak performance.

At Fuel Card Services, our telematics specialists can provide telematics maintenance from the very moment your devices are installed.

Telematics data redundancy solution

The main reasons for ensuring the integrity of the system include data redundancy.

In this case, the implementation of solutions that store data both on the telematics device itself and on secondary servers ensures that, in the event of a failure in the transmission or any other problem, the entire data loss can be avoided by the business.

Critical data remains recoverable even when some devices or connections are disrupted for the time being.

Secure communication channels

Encryption is critical in making sure that any transmission between vehicles, telematics devices, and the cloud platform is entirely non-readable for cybersecurity threats.

Encryption scrambles information that is transmitted, making it unreadable by hackers. Even if data is intercepted, it cannot be used to their advantage.

IDS/IPS

These detection and prevention systems should be embedded in all telematics systems for active monitoring of any network traffic that may appear suspicious.

These systems can swiftly detect any potential threats and block them before they affect the network. They are also useful for periodic testing, which involves simulated cyberattacks, to find loopholes in the system for early resolution before malicious actors can take advantage of them.

Telematics cybersecurity education for users

User education is a very critical component in minimising risks in cybersecurity. Employees and fleet operators should be trained in cybersecurity best practices, such as using strong passwords, not clicking on suspicious links or attachments, and identifying phishing emails.

A positive cybersecurity culture will facilitate businesses being less likely to have human error result in a breach.

Stay compliant with telematics regulations

Your telematics system has to be cybersecurity-compliant.

Not only does being on par with the latest legal developments protect sensitive data but also it gives weight to a business that takes data security seriously.

Compliance with regulations like the GDPR or standards specific to your industry adds more layers of protection to your telematics system.

 

Overcome fleet management system challenges with Fuel Card Services

Business owners addressing these challenges with thoughtful strategies can further the reliability and security of their telematics systems, thus ensuring smooth operations and better fleet management outcomes. Discover our fleet telematics systems and contact our friendly team today.

How Does Our Telematics System Service Work?

In today’s fast-paced business environment, managing a fleet of vehicles efficiently is essential for reducing costs, improving safety, and enhancing overall productivity.

Our Tele-Gence Telematics service offers a comprehensive solution for tracking all vehicles and assets 24/7.

With advanced tracking technology, real-time alerts, and detailed reporting, Tele-Gence provides businesses with the tools to manage their fleet securely and efficiently.

Learn more about our telematics packages here.

Why your fleet needs telematics

This section will discuss why telematics are crucial for fleet car management.

1. Improved fleet security

Vehicle theft can be a major concern for fleet owners. The ability to track your vehicles in real-time offers peace of mind, knowing that you’ll be immediately alerted if your vehicles are moved outside of designated hours or if their trackers are tampered with.

Tele-Gence’s advanced tracking system includes features like geofencing, which allows you to create virtual boundaries around your vehicles or assets. You will get a notification should they move out of these pre-set areas, which secures them against unauthorised use or theft.

Besides this, our asset trackers are designed to be hidden and tamper-proof to prevent thieves from even locating and removing them before the theft of a vehicle or asset.

Discover why this is so important in our UK fleet crime article.

2. Improved fleet visibility

Tele-Gence always ensures visibility regarding your fleet. Our telematics system lets you see where your vehicles are, what they are doing, and which driver is closest to a new job or location.

Such insight is vital in optimising route planning, reducing downtime, and making sure deliveries or service calls are on time. It will enable you to track all your vehicles from one central platform and save you from wasting time and energy checking each of them individually.

If you want to find out more about vehicle tracking, view our fleet tracking services.

3. Easy fuel card integration

For those already utilising fuel cards, seamless integration is assured with Tele-Gence.

This allows the fleet manager to receive alerts on fuel fraud and actual miles per gallon reports for potential issues like inefficient driving habits or underperforming vehicles.

In addition, gaining accurate MPG reports is important for industry accreditations such as FORS, making it easier to maintain compliance and demonstrate your fleet’s environmental efficiency.

 

How Tele-Gence fleet telematics works

Tele-Gence’s telematics system is designed to be user-friendly and flexible, making it easy to integrate into your existing fleet operations. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose the right fleet system package

Tele-Gence offers multiple competitively priced packages to choose from, depending on what is best for your fleet and your budget. Whether you’re a sole trader with a van or a full-scale fleet, we have a solution for you.

2. Fleet tracker installation

Next, after choosing a suitable package, our engineers will pay a visit to your location for tracker installations in the vehicles. For added convenience, we also provide self-installations that let you install trackers at your own pace and according to your timing.

3. Track and monitor your fleet data

Once installed, you are ready to start monitoring your fleet through the Tele-Gence Online Portal.

The web-based platform includes location tracking in real-time, notifications regarding odd activities or behaviours, driver behaviour ratings, and comprehensive reporting.

An intuitive all-in-one device for having absolute control over the operations of your fleet for security enhancement, cost reduction, and efficiency maximisation.

 

Key features of Tele-Gence fleet telematics

The Tele-Gence platform offers a suite of features that ease the operational workload on fleet management and ensure more efficiency.

Some of these features include:

1. Real-time tracking of vehicle location

Using Tele-Gence, each vehicle in your fleet can be tracked in real-time. This feature is extremely valuable for delivery schedule management, dispatching of vehicles to the nearest job, and ensuring drivers are where they need to be.

2. Driver behaviour monitoring

Tele-Gence helps in tracking drivers’ behaviour through detailed scores that are factored by cases of speeding, harsh braking, cornering, and accelerating.

Through this feature, you can set thresholds of tolerance and track the performance scores across your fleet.

Driver behaviour monitoring enhances safety and will hence help you to understand where drivers need to adjust their performances to reduce fuel consumption and lower accident rates.

Still wondering how can efficient driving reduce fuel costs? Our blog can help.

3. Geofencing and alerts

Set geofencing virtual boundaries for your vehicles or assets. If any asset or vehicle moves out of these zones, you get an immediate alert.

The feature is particularly useful in delivery monitoring, ensuring the assets are not moved out of the designated areas, and preventing unauthorised after-hours use of vehicles.

4. Dashcam footage and incident monitoring

With Tele-Gence, you will be able to install connected dashcams in your fleet vehicles. These cameras capture visual evidence of incidents to help you understand exactly what took place during a collision or other event.

Whether it is an at-fault accident or a case of reckless driving, this footage from the dashcam will provide your business with irrefutable evidence that could protect your business and increase driver accountability.

5. Customisable reports and data insights for fleet system telematics

Tele-Gence has designed a configurable suite of reports that can be delivered directly to your inbox on a scheduled basis.

From fuel usage and mileage to driver performance and maintenance reports, the platform allows detailed analysis of your fleet data.

Analysing these insights should provide the ability to realize trends that could help improve operational efficiencies and reduce unnecessary costs.

 

Integration with fuel cards

For companies currently using fuel cards, Tele-Gence can easily integrate to provide further and more sophisticated insights into fuel usage. The integration allows you to:

Fuel fraud alerts

Receive notifications if the fuel card is used in a location that does not match the GPS coordinates of the vehicle for fraud detection and prevention in fuel.

MPG reporting

Get correct reports regarding your fleet’s fuel efficiency. This data is a real treasure in finding the worst-performing vehicles to improve or alter driving behaviour.

 

Solutions tailored for each business

Tele-Gence knows that no two fleets are identical. That’s why we provide customisable packages, which offer much more than mere vehicle tracking.

Whether you want hardwired trackers, self-installation options, or cameras, we tailor these into a solution that fits your particular business needs.

Be it expensive assets or employee behaviour, Tele-Gence brings total visibility and control.

Protect and optimise your fleet with a Fuel Card Services telematics system

Contact us today and learn more about how Tele-Gence can transform your fleet management.

My Fleet Hub: Telematics App FAQs

Have you recently got a telematics device from us or are thinking about acquiring a telematics device with Fuel Card Services?

Here are some of the frequently asked questions relating to how this telematics device operates via the telematics app/ My Fleet Hub.

What are telematics and how can they improve your fleet’s performance? Click here to find out. 

 

My Fleet Hub Login

To access My Fleet Hub you will first need to go to our website; we advise accessing the hub from a desktop to get the best experience.

Once entering the website you will see the ‘Account Login’ button on the top right side of the website.

What is an activation code?

This is a uniquely generated code that you will need when you first enter the telematics app/hub. When you open My Fleet Hub for the first time, select the ‘Activate Account’ tab from the first screen; then you will be asked for an activation code which has been sent to you in the welcome email. You will also be asked to enter the policy email address and create a secure password for future logins.

How do I sign up in My Fleet Hub?

Download the app by following the on-screen steps.  You’ll need the activation code which you can find in the welcome email, so have this to hand.

Once you have downloaded the app, open it, and on the first screen, you will be asked to enter your email address associated with your policy and create a secure password. Click on the ‘Continue’ button to proceed with the activation. You’ll need to type in your phone number and the activation code.

Access My Fleet Hub here.

Top tip: once you have downloaded the app, activated your account, and enabled permissions, pull the blue tab out of the device and get connected straight away. If you pull the tab out before being ready to connect, the device will go to sleep and it will need to wake back up.

 

When should I register on My Fleet Hub and set up my device?

We recommend downloading the app as soon as the device arrives, but don’t pull the tab out of your device until you are ready to connect.

Our helpful team will walk you through the simple steps and will be available for you to contact them if you run into any issues along the way.

The device will usually be delivered within 7-10 days of your cover start date.

Do I need to register in the app?

Accessing My Fleet Hub is a requirement of your telematics system policy. Checking the app to review your journeys on a regular basis will help keep you in touch with your fleet drivers’ ratings and through this fleet management app you will be able to send them personalised feedback on how they can develop safer driving habits.

What if I fail to download or delete the app?

Without logging on to My Fleet Hub, you won’t be able to identify fleet driver trips.  We’ll send you reminders if you haven’t registered in the app or trips aren’t being recorded.  If you fail to download or re-install, the app your policy will be cancelled.

My Fleet Hub Permissions

As part of the app registration setup, you will be asked to enable the following permissions:

  • Location Services (Precise)
  • Bluetooth
  • Push Notifications (we won’t send you any marketing messages)

After you have activated your account, the app will guide you through setup and will help enable all the right permissions for your desktop.

 

What information is My Fleet Hub collecting about my fleet drivers’ driving?

The app will record all journeys made by connected vehicles, specifically focusing on date, time, location, speed, mobile phone use, harsh braking or cornering. You will be given a driving score based on these factors: after every journey and as an average each week.

From this, you will be able to generate monthly reports for your fleet drivers. Find out what else is included in these reports on our Account Management Services page.

Why is my trip not appearing in the telematics app?

Trips should appear in the app shortly after recording, but in some instances may take a little longer. Please also note that not all journeys will be recorded, we expect to see around 95%, so don’t worry if the odd one is missing. A trip may not appear in your app for the following reasons:

  • Your permissions are not correctly enabled – you will see a red banner at the top of your screen if this is the case, follow the link to re-enable
  • The GPS wasn’t working quite right on your trip

If you’ve checked all those things and you’re still having trouble, please contact us with as much detail as you can.

Did you know we also provide telematics servicing and maintenance?

If I use my fleet car abroad, do my trips still count?

If the insured vehicle is used outside the UK, journeys will still be recorded in most instances, although maps will vary depending on the country visited. Please refer to the policy terms to make sure you have the correct guidance.

How secure is my data?

Your data is in a very secure form and it will only be used to assist your company. Our technology provider will have access to your data to provide the app, device, and driving feedback to you via email and SMS, but it will not be shared with any other third party. Data we collect via your app helps us determine your driving score and any feedback we provide. For example, if another driver is attempting to make a false claim about you, we will use your data in your favour.

We are also clearly telling you that we will not:

  • Transfer your information to the police or any other civil authorities, unless your case involves fraud or attempted fraud, or upon lawful directions from a proper court order.
  • Send you any marketing emails, unless you have given us permission to do so. Please note the driver feedback email and SMS communications can not be opted out of as this is part of your policy.

 

How is the fleet driver score calculated on the app?

Each journey score is calculated from a combination of factors that include Smoothness, Speed, Distracted Driving and Usage ratings.

Smoothness considers harsh braking, fast acceleration, and how cautiously your fleet drivers approach corners. Looking ahead and trying to anticipate what’s coming is a good habit for your fleet drivers to get into, and slowing down on approach to speed bumps will help improve your smoothness score – your fuel economy will benefit too!

There are two parts to the Speed rating: the safe speed of the road, and speed limits. Obeying the speed limit is obvious – due to your driver rating and the legal implications. Safe speed is about judging the road conditions, for example, is traffic heavy, are schools coming out, is your visibility impaired due to bad weather? They are all things to consider when making everyday driving decisions.

Distracted Driving – there are three levels of Distracted Driving considered in your fleet drivers journey rating. Hands-free – through headphones or a vehicle’s system, hand-held calls and direct screen usage. All count negatively towards their score but differ in the level of distraction and so are rated separately.

Usage measures how and when you use your fleet car. These are time of day, journey volume, and journey duration. The time for travelling in the late night / early morning hours can allow more accidents to happen; if you are using your fleet vehicles between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., extra care will have to be maintained in order not to hurt a good score. Again, if there are too many journeys travelled in one day, long journeys are undertaken – those particular instances are more likely to cause fatigue in the driver and, therefore, a higher risk of an accident.

Learn more about driver fatigue and your driver’s fitness to drive here.

What does a green fleet driver rating mean?

If your fleet drivers have a green trip or green weekly rating, they are driving safely; keep checking the app for feedback on their trips.

What does an amber fleet driver rating mean?

If you receive an amber trip or amber driving week, there is one particular driving behaviour that is pulling down your fleet driver rating, for example, speeding. You will be able to work on increasing your driving score by referring to your driver’s recent trips and sending them notifications. Every event of driving is pinned onto a map so you know where exactly they need to improve.

What does a red fleet driver rating mean?

If you have a red trip or red driving week, there are likely to be aspects of your fleet drivers’ driving which are considered severe, unsafe, and may mean your drivers are more likely to have a collision. You should be sending regular feedback and reminders to help your drivers identify where you can improve following a red weekly score.

How can I find out what my fleet driver’s rating was for last week?

Connected through your device and My Fleet Hub, we will start rating each of the trips, and it goes to your dashboard.

Also, a weekly update as the progress is sent in emails and also available in the telematics app on different dials that you can refer back to whenever.

Does using the phone hands-free affect my fleet driver rating?

Yes, there are three levels of Distracted Driving considered in your journey rating. Hands-free calls are considered the least risky, but will still count negatively towards your driver’s score.

 

Why do I need a device in my car?

Your device identifies every time that your car engine has been started and stopped and will confirm the completion of every trip to be reflected on My Fleet Hub.

I have lost/damaged my device and need a replacement

If your device isn’t working as expected, please check everything is connected. If you’ve checked everything and your telematics portal is still not registering trips, please contact us.

How do I wake my telematics device if it isn’t connecting?

  1. Shake the device to wake this up
  2. If shaking doesn’t work, gently remove the cover and take the battery out. Replace the battery and try again
  3. If you are still having problems connecting ensure all your permissions are enabled and we also recommend logging out of the app and back in, this should resolve any issues.

I’ve cancelled/ not renewed my policy – what do I do with my device?

The device can be removed from your car on your last day of cover and the plastic casing, battery, and electrical components can be disposed of safely at your local household recycling centre.

 

Managing your fleet telematics device with My Fleet Hub

Did you know that our telematics device allows you to integrate your fuel cards? This prevents fuel fraud and other safety issues and is something that makes us stand as a market leader within the telematics industry.

For more useful advice and information visit our news and advice page where you can find out all about our services and how they can benefit you.

Sustainable Transport With Telematics

In today’s business landscape, the significance of sustainability has evolved from a mere trend to a fundamental component of strategic planning, especially for companies managing fleets of any scale.

As global industries increasingly acknowledge their environmental responsibilities, fleet telematics has emerged as a vital tool in shaping the future of sustainable fleet management.

This detailed exploration outlines the multifaceted benefits of fleet telematics, emphasising its role in fostering a more sustainable future for businesses.

What is sustainable transport through telematics?

Fleet telematics plays a crucial role in minimising the environmental impact of fleet operations.

With growing global attention to climate change, organisations utilising fleet vehicles (a technology that uses GPS tracking and onboard diagnostics (OBD) to monitor a fleet of vehicles in real-time) are challenged to implement technologies and practices that effectively reduce their carbon footprint.

Read more about what telematics is.

Fuel Card Services telematics solutions provide actionable insights and innovative tools that help fleets comply with environmental regulations while promoting sustainable practices.

Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence within these telematics systems enhances predictive capabilities, further supporting sustainability initiatives.

Fleet telematics and fuel efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of fleet telematics is its ability to optimise fuel consumption and thereby decrease carbon emissions.

By utilising advanced routing algorithms, telematics systems ensure that vehicles are directed along the most efficient routes, which significantly reduces unnecessary travel distances. This optimisation translates to lower fuel usage and a decrease in harmful emissions.

Reduced car idling

Additionally, telematics can identify and address excessive idling, an often-overlooked contributor to fuel waste and emissions.

By analysing driving patterns, fleet managers can implement programs that reward drivers for adopting more fuel-efficient habits, ultimately promoting a culture of sustainability within the organisation.

Enhancing driver behaviour for sustainable transport

Telematics platforms provide fleet managers with the tools necessary to monitor driver behaviour closely.

Reducing car speeding, aggressive acceleration & hard braking

By assessing driving actions such as speeding, aggressive acceleration, and harsh braking, fleet managers can identify areas for improvement.

Utilising this data, companies can develop personalised training programs aimed at enhancing driver performance. This proactive approach not only leads to safer driving practices but also contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, reinforcing the fleet’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Promoting effective fleet servicing

Regular fleet maintenance is essential for ensuring that vehicles operate efficiently and remain environmentally friendly throughout their operational lifespan.

Telemetry systems

Telemetry systems facilitate predictive maintenance by analysing vehicle performance data and anticipating maintenance needs before they become critical. This proactive strategy helps keep vehicles running at optimal efficiency, extending their lifespan and minimising environmental impact.

By ensuring that all vehicles are maintained properly, organisations can further reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to environmental goals.

 

Facilitating the transition to sustainable fuels

Transitioning to alternative fuels is a complex and often challenging endeavour that requires meticulous planning and execution. Fleet telematics can provide critical insights that assist in developing effective energy transition strategies tailored to an organisation’s unique operational dynamics.

By analysing usage patterns across various vehicles in the fleet, businesses can determine which vehicles are best suited for transitioning to alternative energy sources, identify the most appropriate types of fuel for their operations, and understand the necessary infrastructure changes required for a successful transition.

Boosting business reputation and marketability with sustainable transportation

Adopting sustainable fleet management practices through telematics can significantly enhance a company’s market reputation.

As consumers increasingly prioritise sustainability in their purchasing decisions, organisations that commit to eco-friendly practices stand out in the marketplace.

This enhanced reputation can attract new clients and top talent, further solidifying the company’s position as a leader in sustainable business practices.

Ensuring scalability and future preparedness with a sustainable car

As businesses grow and evolve, their sustainable fleet management practices must adapt accordingly. Fleet telematics provides the necessary insights and flexibility to scale operations sustainably.

By leveraging data-driven insights, organisations can prepare for current challenges and future regulatory requirements, ensuring long-term success and relevance in an ever-changing market.

The ability to integrate new technologies, develop improved workflows, and foster innovation positions businesses for continued growth while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

 

Sustainable transport telematics with Fuel Card Services

Fleet telematics represents a powerful convergence of technology and sustainability, underscoring its vital role in the future of sustainable fleet management. The environmental and economic benefits it offers are integral to fostering responsible business practices.

At Fuel Card Services, we are not just observers in this movement; we are leading the charge towards a sustainable future through sustainable transport telematics.

Discover first-hand how the right technology can propel your fleet toward a sustainable, profitable, and environmentally responsible future. For further information or to tailor a custom solution, please reach out to us today.

Vehicle telematics

Why Your Business Needs A Telematics Sensor

Telematic sensors are a foundational element in telematics, transforming how fleet managers oversee their vehicles and drivers.

Businesses can access real-time data on various operational and performance aspects by embedding sensors within vehicles and connecting them to sophisticated fleet management software.

This allows for precise monitoring, smarter decision-making, and proactive management across a fleet’s operations. The telematics data collected is not only vast but highly granular, providing deep insights into both vehicle mechanics and driver behaviour.

Here’s an in-depth exploration of how sensors are used in telematics and the substantial impact they have on fleet operations.

How a telematics sensor works in telematics

At the core of any telematics system is a network of sensors strategically placed throughout a vehicle. These sensors are designed to track a wide range of variables related to the vehicle’s condition, performance, and the way it is being operated by its driver. The data generated is then transmitted, often in real-time, to a central fleet management system, where it is processed, analysed, and presented to fleet managers in a digestible format.

For instance, a sensor might be installed to monitor engine diagnostics, reporting on issues such as temperature fluctuations, fluid levels, and engine health. Meanwhile, another set of sensors could be monitoring driver behaviour, tracking everything from speed and braking patterns to the use of turn signals.

Each of these sensors plays a crucial role in building a comprehensive picture of how a fleet operates, allowing managers to address inefficiencies and improve both vehicle maintenance and driver performance.

Telematic data from car sensors

Sensors in telematics systems can gather a broad range of data points, helping to provide a full spectrum of insights into vehicle and driver performance. Among the most critical indicators monitored by telematics sensors are:

Fuel consumption and efficiency

Sensors track fuel usage across different driving conditions, helping managers identify inefficient driving habits that waste fuel, such as rapid acceleration, harsh braking, and excessive idling. This data allows managers to coach drivers on more fuel-efficient driving practices, ultimately reducing costs.

Driver behaviour from telematic data

Telematics sensors can monitor driver conduct on the road, detecting risky behaviours such as tailgating, speeding, harsh cornering, and sudden braking. These behaviours not only impact safety but also influence fuel efficiency and vehicle wear and tear. By analysing these patterns, fleet managers can intervene through training programs, and coaching drivers on how to improve their driving techniques.

Vehicle diagnostics

Sensors provide real-time updates on the mechanical status of a vehicle. For instance, they can alert managers to issues such as low tyre pressure, engine malfunctions, or fluid leaks. Early detection of these problems enables prompt repairs, preventing minor issues from escalating into costly breakdowns.

Idling time

Extended idling can lead to unnecessary fuel consumption and increased vehicle wear. Sensors monitor how long a vehicle remains idle, allowing managers to develop strategies for minimising this unproductive time, such as adjusting routes or scheduling breaks more effectively.

Cargo monitoring

For fleets carrying sensitive goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals, sensors can track environmental factors like temperature and humidity inside the cargo area. For instance, refrigerated trailers are equipped with sensors to monitor and maintain the optimal temperature, ensuring that perishable goods are stored in appropriate conditions, and reducing the risk of spoilage.

Seat belt sensor

Sensors can monitor whether drivers and passengers are wearing seat belts, alerting fleet managers to instances of non-compliance. Ensuring seat belt use is a critical component of maintaining safety standards within a fleet, and real-time data allows managers to take immediate action when drivers fail to follow safety protocols.

 

The benefits of sensor telematics

The advantages of integrating sensors into telematics systems are numerous and extend across various aspects of fleet management. By leveraging sensor data, fleet managers can gain unprecedented visibility into both their vehicles and drivers. The key benefits include:

Improved telematic sensor safety and risk mitigation

Safety is a top priority for any fleet, and sensor-based telematics helps reduce accidents by identifying dangerous driving behaviours in real time. Sensors can detect actions such as speeding, harsh braking, and reckless driving, which are common contributors to accidents. One example of this is parking sensors notifying you when you get too close to another object or vehicle.

By flagging these behaviours, fleet managers can proactively address safety concerns through corrective measures like targeted driver training.

Additionally, telematics sensors provide hard data that can be used to design personalised driver improvement programs. Instead of relying on generic training, managers can develop tailored interventions that address the specific behaviours of individual drivers.

This personalised approach not only increases the effectiveness of training but also fosters a culture of accountability and safety within the workforce. The goal is to continuously improve driver performance, reduce the risk of collisions, and, ultimately, safeguard both drivers and vehicles.

Telematic sensor fuel efficiency and cost savings

Fuel is one of the largest expenses for any fleet operation. Sensor-based telematics can significantly reduce fuel costs by monitoring factors that directly influence fuel consumption. Sensors track not only how much fuel is being used, but also how driving habits impact efficiency. For example, aggressive driving behaviours like rapid acceleration and harsh braking waste fuel, while excessive idling leads to unnecessary fuel burn.

Armed with this data, managers can implement strategies to curb fuel waste, such as promoting smoother driving practices or optimising route planning to reduce idle time. Furthermore, by monitoring fuel levels in real-time, telematics systems can alert managers to potential fuel theft, allowing them to take immediate action to protect resources.

Vehicle maintenance and uptime with telematic sensors

Routine maintenance is essential for keeping vehicles in optimal condition and preventing costly breakdowns. Telematics sensors can simplify maintenance scheduling by providing real-time data on vehicle performance and health. By monitoring engine diagnostics, fluid levels, and other key indicators, sensors can detect problems early on, before they become serious.

Fleet managers can use this data to create proactive maintenance schedules, addressing issues as soon as they are identified. This approach not only reduces downtime but also extends the lifespan of vehicles, improving overall fleet efficiency. In some cases, sensor-based telematics can even alert managers when a vehicle is due for service, ensuring that maintenance is never overlooked or delayed.

Enhanced vehicle security with telematic sensors

Theft and unauthorised vehicle use are ongoing concerns for fleet operators, and sensor-based telematics provides valuable tools to enhance vehicle security. Sensors can be used to implement geofencing, a feature that creates virtual boundaries around specific locations. If a vehicle crosses one of these boundaries during unauthorised hours or without approval, the system will send an alert to fleet managers.

In the event of a theft, vehicle tracking capabilities make it much easier to locate and recover the stolen vehicle. The telematics system can provide real-time updates on the vehicle’s location, enabling law enforcement or recovery teams to act quickly. Additionally, sensors can monitor other potential security breaches, such as unauthorised use of vehicle equipment or entry into restricted cargo areas.

Telematic sensor workflow and efficiency

Telematics sensors help fleet managers optimise operational workflows by providing detailed information on vehicle activities. For example, sensors can monitor when a door is opened, when a pump is in use, or when a tail lift is operated. This data allows managers to evaluate how work is being performed and identify any inefficiencies or deviations from standard procedures.

In industries such as fuel distribution, sensors can detect when a pump is activated at an unauthorised location, alerting managers to potential theft or safety hazards. Additionally, telematics sensors can measure the time taken for deliveries, helping managers determine if unloading times are causing delays. With this data, managers can optimise workflows to reduce idle time, improve delivery efficiency, and streamline operations.

Seat belt sensor: ensuring driver safety

Seat belt compliance is a key aspect of driver safety, yet studies show that many drivers neglect this important measure, especially when making frequent stops or driving short distances. Telemetry sensors can monitor seat belt usage across an entire fleet, alerting managers to non-compliance in real-time.

This feature enables fleet managers to address safety breaches immediately and take disciplinary or corrective action when necessary. Over time, consistent monitoring helps enforce seat belt usage and promote a culture of safety, ensuring that all drivers adhere to safety protocols.

 

Unleashing the power of telematics sensors

The integration of sensors into telematics systems unlocks a wealth of benefits for fleet managers, from improving safety and fuel efficiency to enhancing vehicle security and operational workflow. By providing real-time, actionable insights, sensor-based telematics empowers fleet managers to make data-driven decisions that optimise performance, reduce costs, and create a safer working environment for drivers.

As technology continues to evolve, the use of sensors in telematics will become even more sophisticated, enabling fleets to operate with greater precision and efficiency than ever before. Whether it’s through improving driver behaviour, streamlining maintenance processes, or securing valuable cargo, sensors play an indispensable role in the future of fleet management.

To learn more about telematics from Fuel Card Services, get in touch with our helpful team today.