Utilizing Telematics for Fleet Maintenance

Telematics is a new movement in the trucking industry and it is providing a positive impact on Fleet Maintenance.

What is Telematics?

Telematics is the area of information technology concerned with sending digital data across great distances to trace the movements of vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks, equipment, and other assets, on a digital map, utilizing GPS and Onboard Diagnostics (OBD).

Why is Telematics useful?

Telematics is very useful because it enables access to the Engine ECMs Codes, tracks the vehicle in real-time, and takes care of any minor problems before they become serious problems.

Telematics & Fleet Maintenance

While doing their pre-trip inspection, drivers can utilize a Telematics tablet that will remind them of all the necessary inspection points. Drivers can send a snapshot of a problem right away to the maintenance division. The fleet manager then receives it as soon as the driver completes their DVIR. Photos of the issue can help the fleet or maintenance management determine the best course of action and eliminate any uncertainty.

When data is combined with Fleet Maintenance Software, Telematics may really shine in maintenance operations. Telematics can pinpoint exactly when retorting will be necessary, making it possible to plan the operation in a fleet shop. The pictures might also serve as a manual for other staff to carry out simple improvements. The best part is this short process is all done electronically.

Including Shop Software Integration

Fleets are using telematics to enhance their maintenance and repair operations. Telematics connects trucks with a Transportation Management System (TMS) and Shop Software Platform. TMS keeps dispatch informed so they can prepare to cover the load if a truck develops a serious problem. With this in mind, a repair should be greater supported rather than entering a breakdown situation.

The elements cooperate and when combining fleet maintenance with the Telematics Device, Shop Software, and Predictive Diagnostics, the following data sets should be shared:

• GPS Location:

Maintenance managers may schedule repairs using asset location.

• Meter Information Codes (miles / hours):

When entered into the Shop Software, mileage or hours of usage enable the

maintenance manager to schedule Preventative Maintenance tasks.

• Artificial Intelligence:

When it comes to enabling Predictive Diagnostics, (AI) will be a major factor. Data

may be gathered about assets, for instance, and then processed in novel ways to

look at the typical lifespan of this alternator within the fleet.

• Electronic DVIRs:

Electronic DVIRs ("smart" driver vehicle inspection reports) enable technicians

and maintenance managers the ability to examine defects firsthand and

effectively educate drivers on what to do.

• Engine Fault Codes:

The ECM is coupled to the onboard telematics equipment, which may recognize

problem codes. When sent to the fleet's shop software platform, those can be

taken action.

Predictive Analysis

The zenith of utilizing telematics to decrease downtime is Predictive Diagnostics. Countless pieces of data are used to determine when to replace components. With Artificial Intelligence (AI) greatly aiding Predictive Diagnostics, we should be able to analyze data in novel ways to determine the typical alternator lifespan for a fleet because with reliable data it would be possible to speculate when it would be time to replace a specific component.

Conclusion

By combining the Telematics Device, Shop Software, Predictive Diagnostics & Artificial Intelligence, drivers can save a lot of money and reduce downtime while driving during fleet maintenance which positively impacts the trucking industry.

To learn more about Fleet Maintenance, contact M7 TAX today!