Telematics technology is changing the way road transport businesses operate. ATN sat down with Netstar managing director Michael Emanuel to find out what the technology can do and what’s in store for the future
Trucking fleet technology is revolutionising the way operators manage their vehicles and drivers – a practice often known as telematics.
Telematics can broadly be defined as the process of transmitting information remotely over long distances. Today, telematics is used in various industries for commercial and non-commercial purposes.
Telematics blends two science disciplines: telecommunications and informatics. “Telecommunications” refers to communication over a distance, and “informatics” is the practice of information processing.
A decade ago, the word telematics didn’t even exist. Due to the rise of the internet and communication over networks, it has become a critical aspect of successful fleet operations.
Telematics has helped various industries improve communications, efficiency, and customer service by allowing seamless, remote data transfer and increasing visibility into operations.
Managing director of fleet telematics company Netstar Michael Emanuel says telematics now has a place for all companies with a remote workforce and a fleet of vehicles in the Australian market.
“There is now widespread uptake of telematics in the utilities and commercial transport industries,” Emanuel told ATN.
“Safety and compliance are the biggest applications for telematics technologies, there are also important efficiency benefits to a telematics system as well.”
The NHVR says there is no requirement to have telematics for pre-start checks nor for monitoring of fatigue and alcohol.
One of the most well-known examples of telematics technology used in transport is the electronic work diary, or EWD as its known. This piece of technology can record the distance and length of time a driver has driven and worked to help keep track of when they are obligated to take a break.
Other examples include helping local councils to monitor their waste collection trucks.
Emanuel says Netstar is all about bringing transport and heavy vehicle compliance into the twenty-first century.
“We’re helping operators to turn their paper-based compliance to digital compliance,” Emanuel says.
“We have in fact seen significant growth in the market thanks to digital conversions.
“It’s a no brainer for a lot of operators. Once you convert to a digital system you really can’t go back.”
Emanuel says Netstar has introduced its own EWD solution certified by NHVR.
“The uptake of EWDs has been slow so far in Australia compared to other parts of the world such as Europe,” Emanuel says.
The NHVR says this will increase as device agnostic (BYO devices) are already accepted.
While safety and compliance are an important aspect of telematics systems, another equally important area driving a lot of innovation is driver behaviour monitoring and vehicle efficiency improvements.
It goes without saying that drivers who drive their trucks more carefully and stick to speed limits not only use less fuel but decrease the wear and tear on the vehicles they’re using.
As a result, telematics systems that allow operators to monitor and improve driver behaviour are increasingly popular.
Emanuel says modern telematics systems can provide a clear view of driver behaviours.
“Modern driver behaviour systems now include a dashcam and GPS combination,” Emanuel says.
“These systems can provide lane departure warnings and monitor speed while cabin facing cameras are able to monitor a driver’s fatigue level and distractions.
“For example, a driver that starts to appear drowsy or fatigued could be given audio feedback to remind them to stay alert or take a break.”
The telematics sector, like many other technology-based industries, is growing very quickly with new innovations developed all the time.
The fast pace of growth means the technology is always becoming more cost effective and accessible for operators looking to improve their fleet management capabilities.
Emanuel says the future of telematics in Australia is very exciting for operators and technology companies alike.
“In the next five years of telematics we can expect to see the technology integrate much more with electric vehicles and their systems,” Emanuel says.
“The implications of this sort of integration will mean operators of electric fleets will be able to monitor the vehicle’s battery range and schedule and organise charging.”
As with any new technology there is also some concerns around telematics and how it might be used in the wrong way or for the wrong reasons.
Many drivers are uncomfortable with the idea of their behaviour being monitored all the time. However, Emanuel says that rather than being a big brother type presence, telematics can often help drivers.
“In many cases telematics data can often be used to not only demonstrate the skills and experience of a driver, but also, in the case of a fine or charge this data can help to defend the driver and prove they were doing the right thing,” Emanuel says.
The telematics industry in Australia is only getting started, there are lots more exciting innovations ahead of us, with the eventual long-term outcome being self-driving trucks on the roads.
“Much more investment is needed in road infrastructure before self-driving cars or heavy vehicles are viable,” Emanuel says.
“At the moment telematics will remain a tool for improving and monitoring driver behaviour as well as safety compliance.”