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Telematics has become one of the most valuable technologies for improving the efficiency of fleet management and logistics operations. With a combination of telecommunication hardware and software, fleet managers can effectively monitor their operations through the use of real-time maps, GPS tracking, and vehicle diagnostics. By leveraging these capabilities, they can increase their operational efficiency while reducing fuel costs and minimising safety risks. In this article, we will explore the different benefits and applications of telematics technology to help you better understand how it can be applied to your own business operations.
What is Telematics?
A portmanteau of the words telecommunications and informatics, telematics is a combination of hardware and software that enables the remote monitoring and management of fleet operations. For it to work, telematics combines telecommunication components such as vehicular sensors and wireless networks with informatics systems like Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking, mapping, and software applications to transmit long-distance data. The technology is commonly utilised for fleet management, vehicle detection, location tracking, as well as live surveillance to improve the safety of both drivers and passengers.
As telematics technologies become less expensive and easier to use, they have become increasingly popular for businesses managing large fleets of vehicles or offering automotive services. With telematics, business headquarters can access real-time views of their fleet to better control profitability and productivity despite geographical distances. Many commercial auto insurers are also leveraging the technology to introduce fleet products, manage drivers’ data, and monitor vehicles for usage-based insurance, pay-per-use insurance, and pay-as-you-drive (PAYD) insurance.
How Does Telematics Work?
Telematics systems that are used for vehicle monitoring consist of a tracking device for communicating and storing of telemetry data. The device is connected to the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) or CAN-BUS port with a SIM card and an in-built onboard modem that enables data transmission through a wireless network. The tracking device does not have to be a specialised tool that is part of the asset or vehicle. A smartphone or a GPS tracker can be used as long as it is able to collect performance data from the vehicle/s. Once collected, the device will send the information to a data centre where it will be analysed and stored.
Taking GPS tracking as an example, a tracking device in a vehicle can collect GPS data and transmit it via GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), a cellular network, or a satellite network to a centralised server. The server will then interpret the data and display the route’s information via a secure website or a smartphone application to help direct the driver to the destination through the use of the most efficient route.
Types of Telematics Systems
There are many telematics technologies to suit different applications. Here are six solutions that are commonly used:
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Plug-in Self-installation Telematics System – This system is connected to 12v sockets found in vehicles and can provide highly accurate data. However, it is susceptible to connection problems if the connecting device is not properly installed.
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Black Box Telematics System – The Black Box system is used to collect and transmit data via a fixed electrical box or smartphone connected to the asset or vehicle. This system is useful in the prevention of vehicle thefts as it helps identify the location of stolen vehicles.
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Bluetooth-powered Telematics System - Telematics devices for such systems are Bluetooth-enabled to assist in data transmission. These devices are battery-powered and can be mounted to the vehicles’ dashboards. The data collected is used for various applications such as maintenance, safety, and fuel efficiency.
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Tablet-based or Smartphone-based Telematics System - This system utilises the smartphone or tablet’s inbuilt GPS system to track the vehicle’s location, speed, and other data. It also offers additional features such as navigation and communication tools for monitoring driver behaviour.
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OBD-II Telematics System – The OBD-II telematics system refers to telematics devices that can connect to the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics II port. By utilising the data derived from the vehicle’s OBD-II, this system can detect and monitor any malfunctions in the vehicle’s engine or other components.
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OEM Hard-wired Telematics System - This type of telematics system is hard-wired into the vehicle before it leaves the manufacturer’s assembly plant. This system can provide information about a vehicle’s location, speed, and other performance data. It is also used to detect any potential problems with the vehicle’s engine or electronic components.
How Telematics can Benefit Organisations?
Organisations can benefit from the implementation of telematics systems in several ways. Here are four advantages:
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Reduce Operational Costs – With the accurate tracking and monitoring of vehicles via telematics systems, organisations can better manage their fleets and reduce operational costs related to fuel consumption, maintenance, and labour. Additionally, they can ensure that their vehicles are serviced at the right time, preventing any unexpected breakdowns or repairs.
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Increase Efficiency – Real-time information provided by telematics systems enable drivers to be aware of the best routes for their destinations, resulting in quicker and better delivery times. This also helps to increase job satisfaction among drivers as they can plan their routes more efficiently.
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Enhance Security and Improve Safety – Organisations that use telematics systems can ensure the safety of their drivers and assets by tracking the location of their vehicles in case they are stolen. Additionally, the monitoring of driver behaviour can also help them identify unsafe driving practices and take necessary measures to reduce risks.
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Improved Customer Service – By using the data from telematics systems, organisations can better manage their fleets and provide customers with accurate delivery times. The data can also help them identify potential problems in the delivery process and take corrective measures. This helps organisations improve their customer service and increase customer satisfaction.
Industry Wide Telematics Applications
Telematics systems have a wide range of applications in various industries. Here are six key applications:
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Insurance Telematics – Insurance telematics systems are used to track the driving behaviour of drivers. The data collected can be used by insurance companies to provide tailored insurance policies based on the driver’s behaviour.
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Smart City Telematics – Telematics systems can also be used in smart cities to improve the efficiency of public transportation and reduce traffic congestion. The data collected can be used by city planners to better manage traffic flow and improve urban mobility.
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Autonomous Vehicle Telematics – Autonomous vehicles rely heavily on telematics systems to monitor their performance and ensure safety on the roads. The data collected can be used for navigation, traffic monitoring, and other autonomous vehicle applications.
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Logistics Telematics – Logistics telematics systems are used by logistics companies to track the location and performance of their fleets. The data collected can be used to optimise routes, improve delivery times, and reduce operational costs.
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Agriculture Telematics – Agriculture telematics systems are used in farming operations to monitor the performance of agricultural equipment and ensure the best yields. The data collected can be used to improve crop yield, soil health, and farm productivity.
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Mining Telematics – Mining telematics systems are used to monitor the performance of mining equipment and ensure safety in underground mines. The data collected can be used to improve operational efficiency, reduce operational costs, and increase safety.
Unleash the Power of Telematics with PCI
As an electronics manufacturing service provider, PCI has the expertise and experience to help organisations develop telematics solutions that meet their unique needs. Our team of highly skilled engineers and technicians can assist with everything from design and prototyping to mass production and testing, ensuring that your telematics solution is reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. By partnering with us, you can benefit from our state-of-the-art facilities, advanced manufacturing processes, and quality control measures, giving you the confidence to bring your telematics solution to market quickly and successfully. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you develop a telematics solution that meets your specific requirements.
Summary
Telematics is regarded as one of the most valuable technologies for businesses in fleet management, logistics operations, automotive services, and vehicle insurance. By combining telecommunications and informatics, companies can now monitor their fleet for effective deployment and make informed decisions using data collected from telematics systems. As a result, companies are more likely to experience tremendous benefits such as reduced costs, increased productivity, and enhanced safety. If you are looking to develop telematics systems or implement telematics solutions for your fleets, working with a partner like PCI that is well-versed in telematics design and manufacturing can offer you the resources and expertise you need to get started.