Rand McNally recently introduced its new ELD 50 plug-and-play device to help commercial drivers comply with the federal electronic logging mandate. We caught up with Dave Marsh, the company’s vice president of research and development, to answer our biggest electronic logging device (ELD) questions.
Question: What challenges does it present to small fleets with a handful of trucks and owner operators?
Answer: For small fleets and owner operators, the largest challenge of the ELD mandate is likely to be cost, in terms of both buying new technology and time spent training. We had these issues in mind when creating the ELD 50 which is why we created an E-Log device that’s affordable for the everyday driver and leverages the technology drivers already have.
Q: How exactly does a driver install the new ELD 50 solution?
A: The ELD 50 plugs right into the diagnostics port below the dashboard. Then, to certify and access logs, drivers will need to download the free DriverConnect app in the Google Play store. The app can be downloaded on a Rand McNally TND tablet or on an Android phone. The ELD 50 connects to the app via a Bluetooth connection to upload HOS logs. Drivers can also log into the Rand McNally DriverConnect web portal to view up to view up to 6 months of log history and driver vehicle inspection reports.
Q: How does this new solution meet the newly established ELD device criteria?
A: We follow a continual improvement process at Rand McNally, so as compliance continues to evolve so will our products. Now that the mandate is out, we know that drivers and fleets are serious about looking into compliant ELD options. We developed the ELD to be simple, user -friendly product to serve our commercial transportation customer base and make sure that they’re continually compliant.
Q: What are the biggest benefits of the ELD 50 beyond tracking hours of service?
A: One major benefit of the ELD 50 is the simple installation and user interface. We wanted to make a product that driver could use right out of the box without needing to waste time with a long installation or challenging onboarding process. The gauges feature in the DriverConnect app is another big selling point. It gives drivers access to 10 different engine-driven diagnostics including, average fuel economy, boost pressure, gallons per hour, battery voltage, coolant temperature and oil pressure. Additionally, the app also features the ability to complete DVIRs and a visual countdown of remaining driving hours.