Vehicle tracking is a technology tool commonly used by all kinds of organisations that rely on vehicles. However, different vehicle tracking systems can have a range of features going far beyond simply tracking a vehicle’s location. Additionally, the systems can vary in complexity, from basic smartphone apps to fully integrated in-vehicle devices. Because of this variation, it’s not always clear what someone is referring to when they talk about vehicle tracking.
In this post, we’ll break down the basics of vehicle tracking, look at some of the different options available, and hopefully help you determine the best vehicle tracking system for your business.
What is meant by vehicle tracking?
Vehicle tracking is the name given to the technology used to keep track of vehicle use. The most basic form of vehicle tracking simply involves monitoring of vehicle location using GPS technology. Recent iterations of the technology, however, often have several other advanced features, including the ability to track:
- Driving habits (idle time, acceleration, braking, etc.)
- Fuel use
- Battery performance
- Engine faults
- Software errors
- Crash data
Systems that track these other vehicle metrics are often known as vehicle telematics systems.
How does vehicle tracking work?
Depending on the system you are using, vehicle tracking can work in different ways. The most simplistic systems only track GPS-based location data, often using a smartphone app and the phone’s integrated GPS chip.
More advanced systems can use more complex setups, such as plug-in devices or devices that are directly connected to a vehicle’s internal computer. Such systems are often capable of live transmission of large amounts of data, enabling businesses to track a wide range of vehicle metrics from their entire global fleet on a real-time basis.
Who uses vehicle tracking?
Any organisation that uses vehicles can benefit from vehicle tracking, so the technology is used by a wide range of different businesses and industries worldwide. As the systems become more advanced and more cost-effective, an increasing number of companies are investing in the technology to gain greater control of their operations and improve efficiency. Industries that commonly benefit from vehicle tracking systems include:
- Logistics and transport
- Retail
- E-commerce
- Healthcare
- Gas, electricity, and other utilities
- Telecommunications
- Construction
Benefits of vehicle tracking
Vehicle tracking can help you to improve efficiency and cut costs in a number of ways. Some of the key benefits include:
Reduced fuel use
Advanced vehicle tracking systems are capable of monitoring various driving habits such as acceleration, braking, and idling, which can help to find sources of unnecessary fuel use and encourage more fuel-efficient driving. Additionally, vehicle tracking can make it easier to identify the most efficient routes based on traffic, distance, and other factors.
Incremental reductions in fuel consumption can have a significant impact on costs, and can lead to a lower carbon footprint for your business.
Safer driving
Tracking driving habits, vehicle health, and location data can all contribute to safer driving, a lower accident rate, and reduced maintenance costs. This can not only protect your drivers but also help to give your company a good reputation with clients and potential employees.
More affordable insurance
Insurance companies recognise the benefits of vehicle tracking on safety, accident rates, and maintenance, resulting in lower premiums for companies using certain types of approved vehicle tracking and vehicle telematics systems. With the right system, you could cut your premiums by up to 50%, potentially saving you thousands each year.
More efficient vehicle use
Real-time location tracking can help you optimise vehicle usage based on demand and in response to unexpected changes. This increased flexibility and efficiency can have a huge impact on industries that need to respond to constantly changing circumstances, helping to cut costs and improve performance.
Simpler fleet management
Managing a fleet of vehicles is a time-intensive process. Companies with large fleets often need to employ entire teams dedicated to fleet management, and breakdowns in the process can snowball into big operational issues. Vehicle tracking devices and software can simplify the fleet management process, reducing the demands on teams and reducing the chance of errors.
Trakm8 vehicle tracking and vehicle telematics
Trakm8 vehicle tracking systems are used by companies of all sizes across a wide range of industries to simplify fleet management and improve operational efficiency.
Most of our products are designed and built at our Coleshill, UK facility, allowing us to maintain exceptional quality control standards and a reputation for reliability.
With clients such as Autoglass, Iceland Foods, Scottish Power, and the AA, Trakm8 is trusted to provide quality, cost-effective products and data-driven insights.
Talk to the Trakm8 team today to learn more about our product range and how we can support your business.
