If you are not aware, the Internet of Things refers to a network of physical items that are embedded with software, sensors, and other tech that can connect and exchange data with systems and devices via the internet.
In recent years, IoT has been a key component of vehicle tracking systems. In turn, companies with fleets of vehicles can much better manage their vehicles, drivers, and deliveries, and gain valuable insights into data that can help them to improve operational efficiency.
Image by F. Muhammad from Pixabay
How do IoT-based vehicle tracking systems work and how are they beneficial to companies?
The Internet of Things has many different uses in various industries. For example, a third of manufacturers are using IoT to improve their operations.
Companies with fleets of vehicles are also benefiting from IoT. They are using IoT-based vehicle tracking systems to collect data about vehicle locations, with the use of on-vehicle GPS and diagnostics sensors.
As a vehicle moves, the data from the onboard sensors is sent, via a mobile data connection, to the local gateway.
Therefore, dispatchers have much greater control over tracking their vehicles in real time.
Much more data can be collected with IoT-based vehicle tracking systems to help companies improve their operations and efficiency. For instance, fleet managers are able to access a complete record of a vehicle’s route, fuel usage, engine performance, idling, driver name, and time and delivery.
On-board sensors also provide fleet managers with detailed data about things like torque at transmission, engine speed, and accelerator and pedal position; providing a complete overview of each vehicle and enabling companies to check the operational health of their entire fleets.
Furthermore, many IoT-based vehicle tracking systems provide companies with predictive maintenance schedules, which enable them to perform maintenance, order parts and components, and track vehicle availability.
In turn, that can enhance the operational management of fleets and improve overall productivity and cost management.
IoT-based Vehicle Tracking Systems Also Provide Greater Safety
Sadly, road accidents are far too frequent. For instance, in 2017 in Minnesota alone, there were over 4,300 truck accidents that caused around 1,300 injuries and 60 fatalities.
If one of your drivers is involved in a truck accident, at least he or she may have the opportunity to claim compensation, which can go toward paying for things like medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
However, according to Minnesota’s best truck accident attorney firm, Nicolet Law, trucking companies will do all they can to protect themselves and insurance companies will do everything they can to avoid paying fair compensation.
Therefore, it is crucial that drivers who are involved in accidents consult an experienced and reputable law firm that can assist them in attaining the best possible outcomes.
Though, your fleet drivers can better avoid being involved in truck accidents, or any other type of road accident, in the first place when you adopt IoT-based vehicle tracking systems.
That is because IoT-based vehicle tracking systems like CameraMatics fleet management can track reckless driving and other behaviors.
If a driver is speeding, for example, the system can detect that and alert the driver or the person responsible for overseeing the vehicle.
IoT-based vehicle tracking systems can also detect sudden changes in speed, sharp turns, and other potentially hazardous driving behaviors.
The systems can even be used to track driver fatigue or inattentiveness by looking at things like erratic driving behavior. Drivers can then be alerted to take breaks. In turn, accidents that involve distraction or exhaustion can be prevented.
The Takeaway
If your company is not currently using an IoT-based vehicle tracking system, it is high time that you considered implementing such a system. Dispatchers and fleet managers will then have detailed real-time data about every vehicle out on the road.
In turn, that data can be used to do things like improve delivery times, enhance operational efficiency, and keep drivers safe.
IoT-based vehicle tracking systems have already gone through various transformations since they were first introduced, and as the technology used in the systems continues to evolve and improve, the role of IoT-based vehicle tracking systems is sure to grow even more over the coming years.
This article was provided by José Luis Martín Cara
