Teletrac highlights smart tacho benefits
With technological advancements in intelligent fleet mobility powered by AI, the incorporation of the latest smart tachograph technology shouldn’t be viewed with trepidation by operators – according to Barney Goffer, UK product manager at telematics specialist Teletrac Navman UK.
“With the fitting of smart tachographs now mandated for both HGVs and LCVs within the next five years, more operators than ever before will be subject to driving hours compliance as part of the EU Working Time Directive,” he said.
“Not only can driving hours compliance become an extremely efficient task, but additional operating and anomaly data can be presented for fleet managers and operators to make decisions quickly and effectively for the benefit of their business.
“It’s important to note that efficiently processing and utilising smart tachograph data requires the right platform/user interface (UI) – there has been considerable R&D in these platforms by the industry over recent years,” he continued.
“A well-considered smart tachograph eco-system would see the following: the smart tachograph sends data to the platform/UI in real-time; the platform/UI presents an overview of the here and now for fleet managers to make decisions from the data (live fleet usage, breaks due, breaks overdue) while also sending the data onto a tachograph analysis provider; and the analysis provider then creates an historical overview for checking by the DVSA/ DVLA to prove no lawbreaking at any point.
“This enables fleet managers and operators to remain focused on the important stuff – decision-making that affects the present, rather than over-investing time and resource on historical compliance.”
Barney added: “For LCV operators entering the tachograph arena for the first time, yes, initial outlay on the hardware will be frustrating, but to have compliance data automation, anomaly detection and operational data to utilise to make improvements, shows just how far the industry has come as well as opportunities that can arise from a compliance task.
“For HGV operators who are no strangers to tachographs, the right tech eco-system is going to support them in becoming more proficient around route optimisation… investing in the changeover and training now may make significant difference ahead of the deadline.”
