We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we will assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Car website. However, if you would like to, you can change your cookies at any time
The start point for the best source of fleet information |
Ford has launched a new telematics system for its CVs that can be retro-fitted to vehicles from 2010 onwards and which will also be operational for the brand's car models by the end of this year.
Partnering with Telogis, a company it has been working with on telematics in the US since 2011, the software uses real-time information streamed from each vehicle, allowing managers to track location, fuel consumption, driver behaviour, and provide safety and maintenance alerts, such as on oil life and engine temperature to both help guide service and repair schedules and so a level can be set where the user would get a call if it is breached.
Concepts under discussion also include things like the capability to ringfence Ford dealerships, for example, so an operator would know when their vehicle has entered and left a site for repair work. Other features could be added depending on customer demand for specific developments, which would then be rolled out to the wider customer base via an update, while both companies are claiming that a cost saving on fuel of 10-15% would be easily achieved.
By plugging into a port in the vehicle's electrical system, Ford is targeting a 30-minute maximum installation time, which means moving it from vehicle to vehicle is straightforward.
Available from any Ford dealership, the system can be fitted to any van or car. The most basic level of trip assistance and fuel used will be available for all models, regardless of manufacturer, whereas with Fords there will be 20-25 core lines of data, but with the potential for hundreds of others to be included.
"It gives Ford a first to market in the way it is installed and the type of hardware - it's a big leap forward," said Telogis' European automotive director Paul Reynolds.
Telogis can also bolt-on the likes of routing, fuel cards, insurance and other fleet-relevant applications. "Anyone running telematics needs three or four relationships to get to that, but we can make it a one-stop shop," said Reynolds.
It will also be possible to configure the system so the driver will also be able to see the information recorded about their journeys, and discuss situations with their fleet manager.
The UK is the first country in Europe to get the new telematics system because it is Ford's biggest LCV market in Europe, but it will roll out across the five other major European markets this year. For new models the system is warrantied in line with the vehicle, which Telogis points out is in excess of most regular telematics providers.
Cost is yet to be defined, but it will be around £24 per vehicle per month
BusinessCar magazine ©2019
Business Car Magazine © 2020 | Business Car is part of NS Media Group.
