In an ever-changing world with new challenges around every corner, businesses are looking to streamline their operations with cutting edge technology and better connectivity. And any business with vehicles, whether that be cars, vans, lorries, or even electric vehicles, understands the importance of fleet management. But with customer demands evolving, the need to manage costs, and improve operational efficiency, plus the ever-present concern of driver safety, fleet managers have a lot on their minds.
An option that many fleet managers are turning to is vehicle tracking technology, to give them real time visibility of their fleet and operation. Vehicle tracking not only improves driver productivity and safety but also offers clarity to fleet managers to ultimately improve understanding of their fleet. From identifying dangerous driving through to monitoring fuel efficiency of the fleet, vehicle tracking has so much to offer.
Efficiency gains and cutting costs
Real-time tracking gives fleet managers full visibility of the performance of their vehicles, wherever they are. The monitoring is not only continuous but is also very in depth. A myriad of insights, from when and how vehicles are used to driver behaviour and fuel consumption, gives fleet managers total control. For instance, if a driver stops or is in transit, the fleet manager will know about it.
With such a wealth of information, managers can make better decisions and drive efficiency in the operation. They can choose the best driving times, optimise fuel use and find the best routes to cut wasted mileage. And with businesses navigating a challenging economic environment and rising costs in all areas, it’s no surprise that cutting costs and saving time are top priorities.
Safety first and better driving habits
Vehicle tracking can identify drivers with poor driving habits, who may be putting themselves and other road users at risk. If a driver is speeding, the fleet manager can spot it and understand why – are they rushing to meet delivery quotas, for example?
Armed with this insight, fleet managers can take steps to improve how their fleet operates. This could include putting on relevant training for drivers to encourage better and safer driving habits, or even incentivising drivers for good driving behaviours.
In worst case scenarios, potential accidents on the road can be flagged quickly through alerts, which can support First Notification of Loss (FNOL). Since the vehicle tracking system already has the location of the driver in trouble, support can be sent out as soon as possible.
Security and peace of mind
When managing an entire fleet, having assurance and peace of mind goes a long way. Vehicle tracking makes a big difference when it comes to security. The technology can send out notifications if a vehicle is not where it should be, so fleet managers can be one step ahead in recovering and helping to prevent theft proactively.
The numbers speak for themselves. Organisations that use vehicle tracking have a 95 per cent recovery rate, according to Tracker Network UK. Managers can therefore be reassured that that if a vehicle in their fleet is stolen, it’s likely to be found. The significant cost of replacing vehicles and overcoming disruption to business operations if a vehicle is stolen is minimised.
Going greener
Finally, vehicle tracking technology can help businesses achieve sustainability goals. Managers can analyse trip history and fuel use to investigate the carbon emissions of each vehicle in their fleet.
No longer in the dark and with clear data and insight, fleet managers can help the business go greener. The technology can enhance efficiency and inform decisions on the transition to more sustainable options such as alternative sustainable fuels or electric vehicles.
The big picture
Imagine a world where every turn, every mile, and every moment of a fleet's journey is not just tracked but optimised for peak performance. Vehicle tracking makes this possible, where innovation meets efficiency. Yet, despite the roaring engines of progress, many UK businesses still stand on the sidelines, missing out on the benefits of vehicle tracking technology.
In a landscape where competitive advantage is key, the decision to embrace vehicle tracking technology is an increasingly pressing one. Now is the time for managers to embrace the benefits of innovative vehicle tracking technology to futureproof not only their fleet, but the entire business.
Jonathan Haseler is Managing Director, UK and Ireland at Radius
Poll: Should the UK’s railways be renationalised?
I think that a network inclusive of the vehicles on it would make sense. However it remains to be seen if there is any plan for it to be for the...