Telematics and GPS Navigation » auto telematics http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles Telematics and vehicle fleet tracking and related tracking systems Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:57 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 en hourly 1 Flexible Vehicle Tracking Options That Include Mapping Technology http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/12/10/flexible-vehicle-tracking-options-that-include-mapping-technology/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/12/10/flexible-vehicle-tracking-options-that-include-mapping-technology/#comments Fri, 10 Dec 2010 08:41:13 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/?p=168 In the telematics industry, having options to track your vehicles along with the software that will easily map where they are located in real time is important in being able to save costs and improve customer service.


Here are some videos on vehicle tracking with mapping technology

ATLAS FOR MAPPING TECHNOLOGY

ATLAS is an aerial mapping and GIS company, specializing in large-scale mapping and orthophotography for engineering and municipal related projects. Our experience and competitive services have allowed us to serve several sectors throughout the Pales…

Hillegom, Netherlands Using Mapping Solutions Technology

This nightly newscast (in Dutch) illustrating the use of Mapping Solutions, Inc. FIREbase Map in-vehicle software mapping system.

GPRS Tracking – Falcon-i Vehicle Tracking System

Falcon-i vehicle tracking system or Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVL) is an innovative technology that enables one to track or monitor the location of the vehicle in an instant time. The system functions with the help of different technologies …

Dynamic Vehicle Tracking and Scheduling

Click on the “HD” button to view the video in high definition format. A demostration of an order allocation and vehicle route optimization and tracking prototype software system. This system was done mainly by “Mashing” up resources from the public i…


Here is an article on….  wait for it…. Flexible Vehicle Tracking Options With Mapping Technology

Running a fleet operation in today’s competitive economic climate requires a versatility of application, from servicing small to medium businesses to controlling international organisations. Implementing a Fleet GPS tracking solution may often require an advanced approach to meet ever increasing demands coming from operator and client, alike.

Responding to individual company preferences and daily work needs is key to customising a vehicle tracking system for a modern company to run the most cost efficient, secure and visible mobile workforce solution they can.

No longer a case of ‘one size fits all’, it is now possible to choose to run different configurable fleet tracking options, strictly according to necessity: Digital mapping, Google Maps incorporating Street View technology and a 20-second vehicle update technology.

Mapping technology is an effective across border support which enables highly detailed visual location updates to help with monitoring all areas, from driver safety to real-time traffic. Mapping tailored to suit individual needs can allow large distribution operations to benefit from the optimised security and safety of upgrading to a live vehicle update option.

A home delivery businesses gains total destination imaging vision over the locations visited from Google Street View, whilst traditional digital mapping remains the clearest option for monitoring routes and measuring to plan.

This type of sophisticated online live vehicle tracking is fully scalable, allowing additional services to be quickly taken up cost, effectively within a single Telematics unit. Additional modules can be installed enabling advanced and user driven reporting, automatic links to power take off, integrated satellite navigation and duty of care and data analyses.

The logistics of modern industrial and commercial transportation clearly demand and have proven to have benefitted from 24hr real-time fleet location visibility, managed fleet data, cost control by eliminating wasted mileage, live and dynamic timesheets detailing key fleet data, access real-time travel updates, 20 second data capture and integration with back office service management software, to name a but few of the realtime tracking properties now available from leading suppliers.

http://www.cybit.co.uk are the UK’s Leading Supplier of Vehicle Based Telematics Services, GPS Vehicle Tracking, Fleet Tracking, Trailer Tracking with customisable added value application modules, who deliver an extensive portfolio of advanced vehicle tracking solutions to over 2,000 enterprises across a wide-range of industries. UKAS accredited to ISO 9001:2000, Cybit’s dedicated professional services team can provide guidance with legislation compliance, Human Resource Management and Duty of Care best practice.


Here are some blog postings on Vehicle tracking and mapping technology

Andromeda Announces Launch of Real Time GPS Order & Driver …

Using our mapping technology a store manager can see all of their pending orders, along with their driver’s position, on an on screen map in real time. This enables the store to allocate orders efficiently, reducing delivery time to … GPS Tracking System: Track all your vehicles in real time · BlackBox GPS 36-220-01 Locator Real Time Mobile Asset Monitoring Solution for Fleet Management – Vehicle Tracking · Spy Hawk Turbo GPS Real Time Handheld Portable Tracker …

Publish Date: 12/09/2010


GPS Tracking System: an Innovative Mapping Technology

Remoteassetmanagement.co.uk offers the best in high quality GPS Vehicle Tracking System utilising the most reliable and accurate GPS Tracking System and GPS software packages to know your vehicle movements in real time.

Publish Date: 10/11/2010


What is Advanced Mapping?

Well, advanced mapping goes that little bit further than ‘traditional’ mapping technology, to afford you with all of the information you’ll ever need to streamline your operations. For example, our fleet tracking system can give you a …

Publish Date: 09/24/2010


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]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/12/10/flexible-vehicle-tracking-options-that-include-mapping-technology/feed/ 0 What is Vehicle Tracking and Vehicle Telematics? http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/07/16/what-is-vehicle-tracking-and-vehicle-telematics/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/07/16/what-is-vehicle-tracking-and-vehicle-telematics/#comments Fri, 16 Jul 2010 06:51:34 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/?p=139 Telematics is the convergence of telecommunications and information processing, the term later evolved to refer to automation in automobiles, such as the invention of the emergency warning system for vehicles. GPS navigation, integrated hands-free cell phones, wireless safety communications and automatic driving assistance systems all are covered under the telematics umbrella.  Vehicle telematics  includes a number of different functions.  This article discusses many of these different aspects and functions.  Read on for more!


Every few years a new technology appears that changes forever the way people communicate and do business with each other. GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems spawned from the evolution of personal computers, mobile phones, the GPS Global Positioning System and the Internet. These all converged to form a new technology; Vehicle Telematics. The more general topic of Telematics can cover many areas. The focus of this article and the UK Telematics Online website is with vehicle telematics, which can be defined as; “The use of computers and telecommunications to enhance the functionality, productivity and security of both vehicles and drivers.”

A prominent part of many vehicle telematics solutions is Vehicle Tracking. Typical vehicle tracking systems are comprised of two core parts; location hardware (also known as Vehicle Location Unit or tracking device) and vehicle tracking software. The tracking device is most often hardwire installed in the vehicle. For a straight forward vehicle tracking product, the installation menas fitting the device using a simple three wire connection; ignition switch, battery and earth. Tracking devices using SIRF II or similar GPS receiver technology require the use of an antenna, external to the device, fitted in the line of sight of the sky to receive optimal GPS transmissions. A second antenna is used to transmit the data off board the device, commonly using a mobile data network such as GPRS. Latest generation GPS recievers may mean that installation foregoes the use of an external GPS antenna. As stated, the typical tracking hardware for a fleet management solution uses GPS to pinpoint location. Updates are transmitted at a regular timed interval, or after and including an event trigger, such as ignition on / off. This location/ journey data is commonly made available to the user by the service provider, via a website, where a secure login enables fleet activity to be viewed live and or historically, using digital mapping and reporting tools.

Vehicle Tracking Systems are often configured to transmit location and input data at a set update rate or when an event triggers the unit to transmit data. Entry level “Live (or real-time) Vehicle Tracking” generally refers to systems which are configured simply to update at regular timed intervals; 1 minute, 2 minute or 5 minute etc. These sohrt update intervals are used while the ignition status is on and once the vehicle is parked, ignition off, the device will often go into a hibernation or standby mode, transmitting updates intermittently or upon wake up by the next ignition on or the input from a motion sensor attached to the device.

Many Telematics Service Providers, facing increased competition and falling prices, are keen to show that Telematics can mean more than just vehicle tracking. The advent of combined two way messaging and satellite navigation products is such an example of this product development. Fleet managers can choose to do more than simply locate a vehicle or group of vehicles. So called Connected Navigation solutions, allow fleet managers and job dispatchers to locate and track a vehicle or group of vehicles in relation to customer sites, then transmit and receive job messages to and from drivers, while the onboard navigation device automatically creates a journey route and and sends back the estimated time of arrival back to the job dispatch office. This can lead to more jobs completed per day, reduced journey times, fuel savings and improved customer satisfaction.

When used in a commercial environment vehicle telematics can be a powerful and valuable tool to improve the efficiency of an organization. The fleet activity can be analyzed and decisions taken based upon actual information, not guesswork. Key Performance Indicators including, journey times, fuel economy and drivers hours, can be improved.

The challenge is finding the right tracking and telematics solution and then using the information it provides to ensure the maximum benefit is returned against investment.

Other terms used in relation to vehicle telematics might also include, fleet management, GPS vehicle tracking, GPS tracking, GPS tracker, fleet telematics and satellite tracking or satellite tracker. All of these terms generally relate to the content found on the website UK Telematics Online.

As vehicle telematics technology has developed and it’s use becomes more widespread, an ever increasing number and variety of vehicle tracking systems are available to small business users.

Understanding the technology behind these products, knowing what benefits this technology can deliver, while at the same time, being aware of some of the potential pitfalls to avoid, will save the potential user money and ulimately aid the implementation of these solutions.

Vehicle Tracking

Vehicle tracking is the technology of tracking the movements and/or status of a vehicle or fleet of vehicles, through the use of a vehicle tracking device, typically equipped with a GPS Locator and GPRS modem, which is fitted in the vehicle. Tracking software is then used to view the data, available as a PC or Web based mapping and reporting application.

Trailer Tracking

Trailer Tracking is the technology of tracking the movements and position of an articulated vehicle’s trailer unit, through the use of a location unit fitted to the trailer and a method of returning the position data via mobile communication network or geostationary satellite communications, for use though either PC or Web based software.

Fuel Saving Telematics

The typical car, commercial vehicle or Heavy Goods Vehicle built in recent years, now comes equipped as standard with on board engine diagnostics. This information can be accessed via after market products which capture data directly from the vehicles’ communications network. This communications network (CANbus) passes information around the vehicle connecting all the elements of the vehicle; engine performance, fuel usage, diagnostics etc., various elements of which can be captured and then transmitted off board the vehicle to be analysed by the user. Being able to show the driver that they are over revving, not using cruise control enough, driving to fast, not being efficient in their use of gears etc., can lead to improved fuel economy and reduced vehicle emissions. In addition to driving performance monitoring, providers are beginning to offer ECU remapping to optimise the performance of the vehicle. When combined with ability to monitor vehicle performance and driver behaviour, ECU remapping is promoted as leading to fuel economy savings of up to 10%.

GPS Satellite Navigation

GPS Satellite Navigation technology uses a GPS and electronic mapping tool to enable the user to locate a position, then route plan and navigate a journey.

Mobile Data

The use of wireless data communications using radio waves to send and receive real time computer data to, from and between devices used by field based personnel.

About the author

Matthew Wright is the publisher of the UK Telematics Online website. Vehicle Telematics solutions such as vehicle tracking are now widely available from a huge number of suppliers; many of whom promote themselves as the “market leader” and promise to deliver ‘cost benefit’ and ‘return on investment’. With extensive experience of working with both suppliers and customers “I feel that users of vehicle telematics, if they are actually to see the benefits promised by suppliers and manufacturers, want and need to be better informed.”

UK Telematics Online is an independent source of free information, tips & advice to assist visitors with buying decisions and to aid better implementation of vehicle telematics and vehicle tracking solutions


More on Vehicle Telematics:

Highlights from Telematics Detroit | telematicsupdate.com …

RealVNC showcased a mobile solution that provides remote access and control of mobile devices and computers directly from in-vehicle telematics and infotainment systems. With the VNC Mobile Solution installed, any mobile device that …

Publish Date: 06/10/2010

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]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/07/16/what-is-vehicle-tracking-and-vehicle-telematics/feed/ 1 Automotive Telematics – Total Systems Announces Partnership With Armour Fleet Trac http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/13/automotive-telematics-total-systems-announces-partnership-with-armour-fleet-trac/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/13/automotive-telematics-total-systems-announces-partnership-with-armour-fleet-trac/#comments Thu, 13 May 2010 05:12:53 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/?p=109

Navigate your way to anywhere with the Garmin Nuvi 3790t. You can use the Garmin Nuvi 3790t to navigate your way anywhere you want to go by car or by foot. The Garmin Nuvi 3790t is offered with a very compact, slender, thin casing so …
Garmin Nuvi 3790t | Trac Starr – GPS Tracking & GPS Fleet Tracking …


Starting Article:

Total Systems announces partnership with Armour Fleet Trac to bring innovative telematics-based insurance proposition to market

Total Systems plc [LSE Symbol; TTS], a leading provider of policy systems to the UK insurance market are delighted to have signed an agreement with Armour Fleet Trac to market their telematics based solution.

Emma Howell, Marketing Manager at Total says “the use of telematics in UK insurance is the most innovative product development of this year, as ratified by Datamonitor in their Product Innovation in General Insurance report. We researched the market to find the most advanced provider of not only the GPS devices, but the software to provide the richest functionality and management information. Armour Fleet Trac (in partnership with Vehicle Location Systems Ltd) demonstrated to us that they have the technology, the experience, a referenceable customer base (which includes Brit Insurance, one the Uks leading Fleet insurers) and the in-depth knowledge of the insurance industry to be an extremely valuable addition to the Total Systems portfolio”

The agreement will see Total initially marketing Armour’s proposition to Fleet insurers. John Kowalyk, Managing Director of Armour says “The UK Fleet market would benefit enormously from more insurers adopting telematics as a way of enriching the information available to both Fleet Managers and Insurers. In addition to standard Fleet functionality, the wide range of alerts the software can trigger enable Fleet Managers to track driving patterns, facilitate faster recovery and offloading of vehicles and accurately track the position of the fleet”

The proposition offer insurers an exceptional and unique opportunity to draw on the Management Information to underwrite risk more effectively, fully automate their fleet processes and ensure compliance with the Motor Insurer Database (MID).

The emergence of Pay as you Go as a viable insurance proposition will undoubtedly increase the demand for the technology in the near future.


Consumer Telematics Provider Goodkap! raised €400k

French location-based services provider Goodkap raised €400000 in a second round of funding, said the company in a press release today. This fund raising was made from undisclosed “European privat…

Publish Date: 05/10/2010

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]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/13/automotive-telematics-total-systems-announces-partnership-with-armour-fleet-trac/feed/ 0 Telematics Will Be the Next Phase For Automotive GPS http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/06/telematics-will-be-the-next-phase-for-automotive-gps/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/06/telematics-will-be-the-next-phase-for-automotive-gps/#comments Thu, 06 May 2010 16:24:53 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/?p=102 From Wikipedia:  Telematics is:

The science of sending, receiving and storing information via telecommunication devices.
Telematics includes, but is not limited to, Global Positioning System technology that is integrated with computers and mobile communications technology in vehicle navigation systems.

So how does this relate to this article?  Well knowing what the technology is, we can see how it is making inroads and advances into the consumer automotive vehicle market.  Read on for more.


As GPS Navigation develop to the field comprehensive integrated cross-industry cooperation is an inevitable trend, so this requires a good platform for the application of multimedia mobile wireless Internet-enabled.

GPS Navigation start from the car, which indicate that it started in the high-end means of transport, for their high-speed, convenient, and huge consumer groups, this make it into a broader space. it develop from the initial GPS Navigation Equipment to portable navigation devices, the functions from simple to multimedia features, from high price to common price.

As more and more time that people to stay with audio, so there are more features are needed. Except the navigation for moving, they also want to more and better experience, eg. DVD payer, surfing etc.

Recently Sprint and Verizon launched the high speed mobile Internet devices MiFi move setting, this device can be used for car, but far more than that. As it’s so small, easy to carry, and has long-lasting battery life, people can carry it almost anywhere. This versatility features will help to create more demands, not limited to automotive applications. It also make the public to aware of many advantages that the Internet bring to the vehicle, such as you could listen to music and run the GPS navigation at the same time when travel, to help colleagues, or offer the navigation information for those autos without the unit.

In Europe, the most known Internet application for car GPS is German BMW, with front and rear. Even though there are strict restrictions on the speed for Internet, and the connection is slow. But the program is cheao, allow the driver to use and does not require external devices, it could directly connected to the car system. Autonet Mobile offer Wi-Fi equipment to Chrysler, GM and Volkswagen, you can connect with internet when travel through it.

The prospects of Automotive Internet appears to be excellent. But that is not true. Internet access in the car will encounter many obstacles. Such as $60 per month for Internet access fees and can only be used in the cart, too expensive. What’s more, the smart phone can now surf. Also it’s impossible to surfing when drive, it will obstruct the driver, which is harmfully. The resolution for these issues need to be overcome, not only time, but also technology, including driving habits, and so forth.

At present, the entertainment GPS navigation will be the most reliable and Security system, such as DVD GPS navigation, bluetooth GPS navigation, etc. Before the Telematics come out to be security and reliable, it’s better to choose entertainment navigation first.

Panatron Corporation was founded in 2000, and has since positioned itself as a market leader in the design and development of car audio & video products. From Car Multimedia & Navigation Systems to Telematics solutions for a well-known Japanese company and aftermarket channel customers worldwide. http://www.DVDGPSNavigation.com is a fast-growing online subsidiary of Panatron Corporation that is committed to becoming a loved and trusted web marketplace by offering a superior shopping experience, rapid delivery, and stellar customer service. With our unique focus on cartronic businesses, we strive for long-term relationships that allow us to understand, anticipate and promptly respond to the challenges of our customers’ needs.


More on  Telematics:

ABI Expects Telematics Penetration to reach 23% by 2015

Penetration of consumer and commercial telematics systems in passenger cars and commercial vehicles respectively will evolve from less than 10% in 2010 to 23% in 2015, according to a new report b…

Publish Date: 05/06/2010

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]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2010/05/06/telematics-will-be-the-next-phase-for-automotive-gps/feed/ 0 Telematic Controls – Car Insurance and the Issue of Telematics and Privacy http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/12/13/telematic-controls-car-insurance-and-the-issue-of-telematics-and-privacy/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/12/13/telematic-controls-car-insurance-and-the-issue-of-telematics-and-privacy/#comments Sun, 13 Dec 2009 07:43:24 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/12/13/telematic-controls-car-insurance-and-the-issue-of-telematics-and-privacy/ This article is about sacrificing technology for privacy.  Many insurance companies would love to  use the telematic information that is collected in a vehicle to determine the insurance rates of a particular individual.  The question is… is it really necessary or a gross invasion of privacy?  Read the article for more on Telematic control issues in relation to the Insurance Industry.
Insurance is all about risk. Insurance companies evaluate the level of risk and then set premium rates and coverage per the measurement in question. As you can imagine, they like to limit risk whenever possible. Telematics are a new and controversial method for doing it.

What do insurers want to know the most about drivers? The want to know what kind of driver they are. Do they drive the speed limit or race around town? Do they gun it when they see a yellow light or slow down and stop? An insurance company really has no way of knowing. A few are trying to change that.

A number of car insurance companies like Travelers and Progressive are testing drive monitors. These gadgets, often called telematics, are plugged into the diagnostic electronics of the car. Roughly the size of an iPhone, the devices record basic things like the time you drove, how far you went and other practical data. The data is then sent back to the insurance company through cell phone towers. Basic calculations can then be used to determine if you were being a driver who was more or less likely to get into an accident.

The concept of privacy has more or less become a joke these days. Many feel that telematics are another nail in the coffin of privacy. Insurance companies make no bones about it, either. There is no privacy. They are not looking at overall data for all drivers. They are looking at YOUR driving patterns so they can set your rates or even cancel your policy if you don’t meet there risk requirements.

So, how might telematics be used to evaluate someone? Well, let’s assume you work in the restaurant industry. You’re a cook. You cook till 11:00 and then have to go through the clean up and prep for the next morning. You usually get out of the restaurant around midnight and it takes you 20 minutes to drive home.

The telematics device in your car would send data back to the insurance company. A computer program would do an initial analysis. What would it find? The most obvious is that you are driving after midnight. This dramatically increases the probability of risk because the highest frequency of crashes happen between midnight and four in the morning. This is obviously due to people drinking. You weren’t drinking, but it won’t matter. Your rates are going up!

Telematics are currently being tested in multiple states. There is no legal requirement they be used, but we are heading down a slippery slope. This raises the question again of just how much are we willing to let our lives be regulated and controlled? Only time will tell.

Thomas Ajava writes for AutoOwnersInsuranceCompanies.com – where you can find auto insurance companies for your insurance needs.

]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/12/13/telematic-controls-car-insurance-and-the-issue-of-telematics-and-privacy/feed/ 0 Vehicle & Equipment Tracking – Making it Work http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/01/02/vehicle-equipment-tracking-making-it-work/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/01/02/vehicle-equipment-tracking-making-it-work/#comments Sat, 03 Jan 2009 01:44:19 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/01/02/vehicle-equipment-tracking-making-it-work/ This article is from a different angle.  It discusses the needs of businesses and telematics, yet it also discusses the service providers as well.  There are a lot of players in th telematics industry today and it is due for a “market correction”.  One thing service providers can do to solidify their position is to really focus on a niche and specialize in it and become the best in that niche.  For instance, some businesses require telematics to prevent theft of their assets.  This is a niche that can be exploited to allow businesses to stand out.  Read on for more on what businesses need to make telematics work for them.

A major challenge for all fleet operators, whatever industry sector they operate in, is how to manage drivers, vehicles and other mobile assets when they are “out on the road” and effectively out of sight.

Telematics-based vehicle tracking and fleet management solutions, that utilize GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite technology, give vehicle and equipment operators control over their assets and employees, in a way never thought possible only a few years ago. Maximum optimization isn’t the impossible dream that it once was, and businesses can now see at a glance exactly where their assets are and co-ordinate and protect them far more effectively.

MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU
Despite what some might tell you, vehicle tracking technology cannot be all things to all people, and installing a system won’t immediately solve all transport-related problems or optimise a vehicle operation overnight. Promises of data on every aspect of your fleet won’t help you either unless there is an effective means to transfer this into knowledge.

Not many companies in the telematics field are making money today – a major proportion of service providers go bust within the first two years of business. The field is overdue a shakeout and we will definitely see some consolidation in this sector. Make sure when you are selecting a supplier that it has a good track record, an excellent reputation and, not least, a sound balance sheet

Choosing a vehicle tracking system takes careful consideration. It is about businesses knowing what they really want, not just now, but also in the future. Focusing on what realistically can be achieved is essential, but businesses need to understand that their requirements will change, so any telematics solutions has to possess the flexibility to evolve and adapt to these changing needs.

Furthermore, no two businesses possess the same needs, so it is critical to select a solution that can be tailored to specific requirements. Imagine the varying needs amongst electrical contractors with every single one having individual requirements and operating with different working practices.

For example, protecting vehicles and assets against theft requires different functionality than a work flow management and job scheduling solution, but a vehicle tracking system needs to possess the flexibility to handle both should this be needed. It is worth considering the benefits of selecting a partner that can develop a bespoke tracking solution rather than procuring an off-the-shelf device that may lack sufficient adaptability and expandability.

To best utilize a vehicle tracking solution, there needs to be substantial levels of commitment from both the telematics service provider and the fleet operator itself. This doesn’t just mean financially, company’s need to also set aside some resource to develop and manage the process. A company also needs to communicate openly with all its stakeholders – whether this is directors, employees, drivers, customers or suppliers – to ensure everyone understands the reasoning for the solution and the potential benefits.

Vehicle tracking and telematics systems can fundamentally change the way companies do business, and if it doesn’t then the solution is not working. What is needed is clearer thinking to define what will add value to a business and how companies can work smarter using the knowledge that this technology offers.

Digicore is a leading provider of telematics and vehicle tracking in the UK. Visit http://www.digicore.co.uk for more info.

]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2009/01/02/vehicle-equipment-tracking-making-it-work/feed/ 0 Automotive Telematics Deliver a Brave New Ride for Consumers http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2008/12/11/automotive-telematics-deliver-a-brave-new-ride-for-consumers/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2008/12/11/automotive-telematics-deliver-a-brave-new-ride-for-consumers/#comments Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:45:40 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2008/12/11/automotive-telematics-deliver-a-brave-new-ride-for-consumers/ This article discusses the automotive telematics industry from the consumer point of view.  It is based on the telematics function of a single vehicle and a single owner as opposed to a company running and maintaining a fleet of vehicles.  As a result, there will be different needs for each market, and the consumer market focuses on features that would interest the driver, such as location based services like navigation and emergency assistance… You have seen those commercials on TV.  Just think 5 years ago, we weren’t seeing any commercials about automobiles that come with these features as part of the standard package.  This industry is certainly making it’s way into the consumer market.  Read on for the rest of the article.

It’s Saturday, which means you have chores to do. You jump in your minivan and turn the ignition. Without being told, your favorite song is cued, your seat is automatically heated to your preferred temperature, and you are reminded of about how many miles you can drive until you need gas. “Oh,” you think, “I’ll get gas first.” With the touch of a button, your navigation system shows your current location and the price of gas at the five nearest gas stations.

Welcome to the world of telematics and the new wave of automotive in-car technology that’s quickly finding its way into our vehicles.

Telematics is deeply embedded hardware, software and telecommunications systems that provide an increasingly wide range of applications that serve our vehicles. These applications can enable safety, security, monitoring of vehicle health and remote diagnostics services. For the driver and passengers, telematics systems can provide dynamic location-based services such as navigation, traffic information, emergency assistance and a suite of other driver services based on two-way connectivity.

The icing on the cake is the idea of bringing the Internet to your vehicle. Automakers are working with Web companies to devise ways of connecting this technology intelligently, and advertisers are ready to jump on board and make it cost-effective, all to integrate your vehicle into the connected world.

Today’s vehicles are already providing a glimpse of what lies ahead. Many already have their own personal computer, their own cell phone and a display monitor. Add a keyboard or touch pad in-dash and the possibilities are endless. It all depends on how much information about yourself you are willing to provide. Data such as your blood type, favorite restaurants and even the stocks you own can prove useful. Ultimately, you will be able to tell your vehicle what you want it to do and when. Want an alert sent to your cell phone if your vehicle alarm goes off? Want to let your significant other know if your airbag has been deployed? Want to know when you’re driving by your favorite coffee shop? Easy to do; your vehicle will be as smart as you let it be.

Global automakers are working toward making telematics the core of the connected vehicle, and they have a strong incentive to integrate this technology as quickly as possible. The competition from connected mobile devices has clearly acted as a very powerful stimulant. Personal Navigation Devices (PNDs) and smart phones are grabbing the consumer’s fancy, and navigation systems are on a lot of wish lists.

PND manufacturers are heavily reliant on sales and are aiming their brand of navigation as a service product. As more devices have navigation capabilities, it won’t be about the hardware but about the service – something that provides two-way communication and lends itself to the consumer’s lifestyle.

Even automakers are realizing that it’s the suite of services that will help them achieve success. The wireless mobile and wireless automotive communities are fighting tooth and nail to win consumers’ hearts and minds.

One industry that is highly interested in telematics is the insurance industry. As more in-car technologies become available, automotive insurers have the opportunity to collect driver data with as much or as little granularity as they desire. They can monitor vehicle location, speed and driving times, or they can collect data on specific, narrowly defined events, such as hard braking. With better underlying data and the accompanying ability to price risk more accurately, insurers can roll out new types of products, often targeted at customers previously considered uninsurable. Information collected in the vehicle can also be used during the claims process. The overwhelming obstacle is the business issue of cost.

This is where advertisers are chomping at the bit to jump on board. Enabling these systems in your vehicle carries a cost, whether it’s a monthly subscription based on usage or a flat fee, and bringing advertisers into your vehicle can lower the cost considerably. So whenever you download a movie into your vehicle for the kids to watch on the next trip, it’s likely to be sponsored by an online movie provider. A major quick lube company will gladly make arrangements for your next scheduled oil change.

Advertisers also see the value of “knowing where you’re going” as a valuable customer relationship management tool. Remember those Saturday chores? Heading to a home improvement store? A telematics- equipped vehicle offers advertisers sophisticated, location-based options never before available. It’s all about capturing a consumer when they’re ready to make a decision. Let your system know you’re going to a home improvement store, and you get a quick glimpse at a discount being offered by one of the major chains. Once your vehicle is detected going to that location, the incentive is activated. You get something in return for sharing your data. Advertisers love that.

Mike Trudel, Freelance Writer.

Delphi Corp. is poised to apply its expertise and know-how to provide vehicle manufacturers and consumers with in-vehicle entertainment and connectivity. To learn more about Delphi Corp., please visit http://www.delphi.com/4innovation or http://www.delphi.com/4connected

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]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2008/12/11/automotive-telematics-deliver-a-brave-new-ride-for-consumers/feed/ 1 Advanced Telematics Systems Deliver Personalized Auto Satisfaction http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/09/25/advanced-telematics-systems-deliver-personalized-auto-satisfaction/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/09/25/advanced-telematics-systems-deliver-personalized-auto-satisfaction/#comments Tue, 25 Sep 2007 04:41:17 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/09/25/advanced-telematics-systems-deliver-personalized-auto-satisfaction/ This is a good article that discusses the purely consumer uses of automotive telematics.  You can now use wireless applications of telematics to connect mp3 players, and pda’s to the car.  This use of telematics is purely for communication and connection, and not for vehicle tracking.  It is refreshing to see this version of telematics, and it will be exciting to see how this application of telematics will unfold.
Imagine the most captivating, comforting and satisfying features of a vehicle. Now, imagine them being executed at the most convenient manner. This and more could be had through the Telematics Solutions from Continental Automotive Systems.

With the said advanced solutions, digital music and other auto features could be enjoyed with just a touch of a button or by simply using voice commands. The Telematics Solutions from the Automotive Systems Division will serve as the key to make wireless connection of portable devices, like MP3 players and PDAs, more convenient and user-friendly.

Continental Automotive Systems has already integrated Bluetooth and telematics systems to over 12 million vehicles. Now, the division of Continental AG, an international automotive supplier, is in the process of designing intelligent electronics that will wirelessly connect portable devices and external digital content to the car. This auto feature will enable drivers to access their personal music collection in new ways while enjoying a ride.

With the new feature, the drivers will not only have the ability to carry out hands-free mobile phone calls but they also will be able to play digital music inside their car and access songs using voice commands, controls in the steering wheel or instrument panel. The forthcoming next-generation telematics products in development will be adaptable to future wireless technologies and standards by software updates. The feature makes it easier to stay connected to the latest auto devices.

With the new solutions, digital music can be transferred via Bluetooth wireless technology or USB connection. The driver can navigate through the device’s menu by pushing a button or using voice commands. The company’s telematics systems also wirelessly download a mobile phone’s address book into the car, support personalized ringtones and stored speed dialing numbers, use text-to-speech to read incoming short messages (SMS) aloud if desired and allows up to 12 Bluetooth phones to be connected to the system.

If ever the mobile phone call is initiated outside the car and is to be continued in the car, the telematics feature automatically transfers the call without interruption to the car’s hands-free system when the ignition is switched on. On the other hand, a phone module for service and assistance functions and mobile internet access can be built into the telematics unit.

“Continental Automotive Systems recognizes that development cycles in the field of consumer electronics are much shorter than in the automotive industry,” comments Kieran O`Sullivan, the head of Continental Automotive Systems Telematics business unit. “Future portable devices can be supported by new software updates or new hardware components.” The telematics solutions also recognize the needs of the car manufacturers in that these components can be combined into a wireless communications gateway which can be integrated into the car and connected up to its networks.

The new telematics systems create an in-vehicle communications network that swiftly integrates portable devices and digital content into cars. In regard to accessing digital music, the driver’s hands could stay on the steering wheel and eyes stay on the road while choosing and playing songs.

These solutions could be mated to Volvo clutch disc and other brand’s auto parts to deliver utmost auto satisfaction.

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. Please visit Volvo clutch disc for more information.

[tags]telematics, bluetooth, automotive, vehicle, auto[/tags]

]]> http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/09/25/advanced-telematics-systems-deliver-personalized-auto-satisfaction/feed/ 0 Automotive Telematics Provides a Way for Businesses to Easily Track their Fleets http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/04/12/automotive-telematics-provides-a-way-for-businesses-to-easily-track-their-fleets/ http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/2007/04/12/automotive-telematics-provides-a-way-for-businesses-to-easily-track-their-fleets/#comments Fri, 13 Apr 2007 02:07:36 +0000 admin http://totaltelematics.com/telematicsarticles/?p=5 What is automotive telematics and what does it have to with a company’s fleet of vehicles? The answer is both complex and simple at the same time. The simple part is that it allows you to know where each of your vehicles is at any given point in time. This is accomplished with the use of a GPS unit and a wireless transmitter. There is a wide variety of information that is collected and transmitted back to your dispatch.

The amount and type of information that is collected by the system you purchase will, to a large degree, depend on how much money you want to spend and how complex you want to get. The simple systems will tell you how fast a vehicle is going and where the vehicle is. The more complex systems will give you are more detail and flexibility to determine what information you want to track on each vehicle.

If for example you are evaluating a particular driver’s performance, you can monitor the route they tack to make their deliveries, how much time they spend at each location and the speed they are traveling. If for example you have an employee you suspect is using a company vehicle for personal use. You can track them and be alerted to any unauthorized stops that may indicate unauthorized use.

These systems also come in very handy when a fleet vehicle has been stolen. It will help the police locate and retrieve your vehicle. Vehicles can also be located during times of inclement weather, such as during the winters in the mountains and plains areas. These places are prone to blizzards and significant snowfalls that can delay delivery or even place a driver’s life in danger. These systems will allow you to know where your people are in the event of a blizzard so that you know if your people are someplace safe or if they need help.

These systems can provide an extra layer of insurance that protects your assets. You always know where your equipment and that staff assigned to them are at any given time. That is important as you can use this information to evaluate the performance of each vehicle. You can see how the driver is using the vehicle and the routes that are taken to see if peek efficiency is being achieved. If not than what can be done to improve the efficiency of the vehicle, route or driver.

The fact is that auto telematics is here and it is not going away. It provides a great deal of information that will help you remain competitive in your market. There are always the growing pressures of increase competition and rising costs. By deploying an automotive telematics system, you can give yourself an edge over the competition that will help keep you profitable.

[tags]telematics, auto, vehicle, fleet[/tags]

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