Fleet and video telematics is already playing a vital role in modern fleet management by providing actionable insights that lead to safe, efficient and cost-effective operations. However, with advances in connectivity comes an opportunity to integrate the technology with complementary hardware and software systems to support greater fleet optimisation than ever before.
Handling big data
One of the biggest barriers to increased connectivity with other third-party systems and information sources has always been the amount of data it generates. Previously, software and hardware processing and sharing capacity was not enough to handle such a huge increase in data, but with the arrival of AI and 5G there is a growing opportunity to turn the aspiration into a reality.
“AI-powered analysis will enable the telematics system to interrogate an ever-greater range of data and video sources. This means information captured from in-vehicle devices, systems and sensors can then be scrutinised alongside third-party information to better manage a fleet operation, understand where issues exist, and take corrective action,” believes Steve Thomas, Managing Director, Inseego UK Ltd.
For example, details such as points on licence, speeding fines, completed training and driving experience could be considered alongside behaviour, incidents, near misses, fuel usage, speed limits, road type, driving time and weather conditions. By making sense of this information from multiple sources can create a complete picture of driver performance and understand true risk within a fleet operation.
Vernon Bonser, UK Sales Director at Queclink Wireless Solutions, explains that 5G connectivity will be a crucial aspect for faster and more reliable data transfer for use with any telematics hardware and software. “5G will enable seamless integration with cloud-based platforms where the hardware generates reliable data faster and the software in turn supports high quality data storage, analysis, and remote monitoring. With the ever-increasing capabilities of hardware and the subsequent higher volumes of data generated, we are seeing more and more the need for high speed, reliable data transfer. Whether the AI analysis is taking place on the device or in the cloud, the connectivity needs to be seamless and robust to take advantage of the insight provided.”
Connecting hardware
The continued evolution of vehicle tracking and dashcam hardware will see the development of highly connected fleet and video telematics, which provides greater scope than ever before to use the technology in new and clever ways.
Advanced sensor monitoring allows fleets to gain greater understanding of peripheral equipment and vehicle functions, while wireless connectivity, using Bluetooth, enables supplementary devices to be combined without the need for hardwiring. When integrated with camera technology and AI-powered object recognition, for example, fleets can gain
Image: Jasper Business Communications
video-enabled visibility that offers a range of possibilities to improve maintenance, security, safety and performance.
“Integration with a door sensor could be used to detect open and close status, making it possible to trigger the recording of loading and unloading or unauthorised access for added protection and peace of mind,” suggests Vernon Bonser. “It could even be used to validate that drivers are following safety procedures such as three points of contact.”
SureCam’s Sam Footer believes that there is an opportunity to use advances in telematics hardware connectivity to achieve benefits above and beyond the proven safety, insurance, efficiency and productivity benefits. “Having immediate access to proof of work or compliance footage linked to an actual operational event provides an effective means of challenging or resolving complaints and any associated claims. Side and rear cameras, for example, could be used to prove that cargo is loaded safely and correctly, or a collection has taken place.”
Advanced systems integration
With the continued advances in cloud-based connectivity there is now a huge opportunity to bring together different fleet-related systems according to Sam Footer, Partnership Director at SureCam. “We are seeing video telematics integrated with other apps, systems and tools, which is enabling fleet operators to gain greater levels of visibility, control and insight through added connectivity and seamless sharing of data. This now covers a growing range of solutions including vehicle tracking, mileage capture and compliance, claims and risk management, and driver training.”
Most recently, SureCam teamed up with Blackout Technologies to develop the first fleet dashcam with mobile device blocking that helps tackle the dangers of smartphone distraction. “Our integrated solution eliminates the illegal use of messaging apps, social media platforms, streaming and Internet browsing behind the wheel, which is believed to contribute to as many as 40% of vehicle collisions,” explains Mark Hadley, CEO of Blackout Technologies.
He went onto say: “We see huge potential for our blocking technology combined with complementary systems such as fleet and vehicle telematics to provide added choice and safety features within the marketplace. It removes the need for a separate Bluetooth beacon – removing the need for additional hardware or installation costs – while delivering added road safety, driver welfare, risk reduction and insurance benefits.”
Meeting future needs
Meanwhile, organisations are under growing pressure to decarbonise their operations, with fleet electrification at the forefront of these efforts. Telematics has long been a useful tool for any fleet looking to adopt electric vehicles, but typically this has been focused on supporting charging requirements and employee reimbursements.
“Telematics is racing to keep up with the needs of EV fleets. We are already seeing the introduction of advanced reporting capabilities that can be connected to existing solutions to support the smooth transition in the first instance and then achieve the required levels of efficiency, productivity and performance to deliver business value,” says Inseego’s Steve Thomas.
According to Leah O’Dwyer, CEO of ZeroMission, there will be a growing realisation that vehicles, charging infrastructure, schedules, power supply cannot be managed independently in isolation. “Only with an integrated approach, underpinned by telematics and tracking technologies, will it be possible to see the complete picture from a fleet, facilities, service delivery and financial perspective.”
“Up until now, fleets have been looking at the vehicle and charger in isolation, while attempting to coordinate the schedule in the same way as before. Understanding the interdependencies between different systems will help fleets to see trends within their EV operation and achieve the day-to-day vehicle performance needed for financial and operational viability. It is about connecting those different aspects of an EV fleet that together provide organisations with a degree of confidence that they can get the job done,” she adds.
As connectivity advances, the ability to integrate telematics with a broader array of systems and devices will enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability. It will lead to improved levels of analysis and automation, with informed decision-making and simplified fleet management.
