Today, many carriers face a critical challenge: boosting the profitability of their businesses while charting the path for future growth. One of the key factors for success is optimizing the operating costs of a specific fleet. Statistics show that up to 40% of these costs are fuel-related—nearly half! So, how can you reduce them? One of the most effective solutions is telematics systems for fleet management. This comprehensive solution combines monitoring and analytics technologies with innovative driver training methods.
Special equipment installed directly on the vehicle, along with software, provides real-time data on critical parameters that impact fuel consumption. These parameters are grouped into several main categories:
- vehicle speed;
- engine speed;
- braking and acceleration;
- idling;
- cruise control.
These systems allow for detailed analysis of each parameter. For instance, they can identify the reasons for speed limit violations (like frequent pressing of the gas pedal) and the duration of driving at high revs. They also monitor the frequency of engine brake usage, coasting, and cruise control application where it’s truly necessary for fuel savings. Ultimately, the system provides a rating for each parameter, highlighting the skill level of individual drivers.
Smart driving not only reduces fuel consumption but also cuts maintenance costs by extending the life of tires, brake pads, engines, and transmissions. This positively impacts road-traffic safety, minimizing the risk of accidents and unexpected downtime related to such accidents. Furthermore, advanced fleet monitoring and management solutions enhance the environmental aspect of cargo transportation—after all, the less fuel consumed, the fewer harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.
Queen of the Roads
One of the leaders in telematics implementation in trucks is the renowned Swedish manufacturer Scania, often referred to as the ‘queen of the roads.’ Scania offers the FMS (Fleet Management System), which helps track the location of specific vehicles, monitor their performance, plan maintenance, and gain insights into how drivers operate the trucks.
Scania offers three package options. The Monitoring package provides clients with weekly email reports on each vehicle in the fleet, helping to reduce operating costs. This subscription is free.
The next option is the Location package, which, in addition to the services offered by the Monitoring package, allows you to track the vehicle’s location in real-time.
The most advanced option is the Control package, which offers detailed analysis of various parameters, including driving style. It also allows for remote diagnostics of a vehicle and scheduling vehicle inspections.
Additionally, the Scania Fleet App is available for mobile devices, assisting drivers and administrative staff in their daily tasks involving various functions. For example, it can activate the cabin and engine heater well before shifts and allows users to send reports with reference photos to the office regarding any truck issues.
Experience Worth a Million
This spring, Daimler Truck announced that over a million of its trucks and buses have been connected to its global digital platform. This milestone has significantly enhanced vehicle reliability, safety, productivity, and environmental performance. The Mercedes-Benz Trucks Uptime application for remote diagnostics, available for both trucks and trailers, utilizes sensors to analyze the status of various systems. If a malfunction is detected, the information is transmitted to the Truck Data Center support center and then forwarded to the service center. All new Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks now come standard with a DIN A5 module, which uses Bluetooth, mobile internet, or GPS to transfer data to the Truck Data Center. All of this combined reduces the number of unplanned service visits. According to statistics, the number of such visits in Europe has been halved thanks to Mercedes-Benz Trucks Uptime, saving carriers both time and money!
Trailer Equipment Under Control
Today, telematics systems are being rapidly adopted by leading trailer equipment manufacturers. A prime example is Schmitz Cargobull with its advanced TrailerConnect system, which enables fleet monitoring and management through a single portal. This is particularly beneficial for refrigerated semi-trailers, where telematics ensures constant awareness of cargo temperature and enables remote adjustments in case of emergencies. Dispatchers can not only monitor the semi-trailer’s location and its technical parameters (like tire pressure and axle load), but also lock the doors if there’s a threat to cargo safety. Telematics also helps in planning optimal routes with estimated arrival and travel times. Additionally, there’s a specialized mobile app for drivers called beSmartApp.
To streamline operations and standardize practices, leading trailer manufacturers like Schmitz Cargobull and Krone have, as part of their cooperation, opened their telematics system interfaces for open data processing. This enables customers to access fleet information more quickly, allowing for more effective management.
Driver Motivation
Now let’s discuss a crucial aspect: driver motivation. Many drivers have developed their own driving styles over the years, so the introduction of new technologies, such as telematics systems, can sometimes be met with resistance. To address this, several strategies can be employed.
Let’s begin with monetary incentives. It can be more effective if drivers receive bonuses based on their performance during monthly or quarterly assessments or impromptu competitions. This approach encourages them to focus on better fuel efficiency and safer driving.
Another effective solution is to establish prompt two-way communication with drivers. This can be achieved through various mobile devices (smartphones, tablets), which would receive reports assessing specific driving parameters. Drivers can then analyze their mistakes, and it’s crucial to support them in making the necessary corrections.
Firstly, this can be achieved through online training seminars, video tutorials, or providing access to relevant literature. Secondly, drivers should be encouraged to suggest recommendations for improving cargo transportation efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. It’s important for drivers to understand that the success of the entire business relies on optimizing each individual’s performance.