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RAC launches new connected car product
Date: 06 October 2022 | Author: Sean Keywood
A new connected car product aimed at businesses and fleet operators has been launched by the RAC.
ConnectOne works via a matchbox-sized device, which is plugged into a vehicle's 12V socket and paired with a compatible Apple or Android smartphone.
It can track vehicle trips and locations and gather data on driver behaviour, with the associated app usable for optimising routes and providing coaching on saving fuel and lessening vehicle wear and tear.
ConnectOne is also designed to help fleets stay HMRC-compliant by accurately recording mileages and having timesheet and expense claim functionality built in, cutting down on administration.
Fleet managers can also geofence specific locations so they receive an alert when vehicles enter or exit them, making it easy to keep track of drivers returning to depots and to detect potential unauthorised vehicle use.
According to the RAC, the product is suited to cost-sensitive businesses, grey fleet, and short-term rental operators who have never explored connected technology before because of the cost and commitment required when taking on traditional 'hard-wired' telematics services.
The organisation says advantages of the product include being able to be easily swapped between vehicles, and allowing grey fleet drivers to easily disconnect the box during non-work trips.
RAC head of commercial and connected services Nigel Humpherson said: "With costs escalating, looking for savings becomes an ever more important task for businesses.
"With ConnectOne, we've developed a solution that dramatically reduces the financial barriers associated with taking traditional 'connected car' services, which allows organisations to quickly see savings from keeping a closer eye on their vehicles - all delivered via an easy-to-use smartphone or web-based app."
