How the 2G network sunset is impacting truck telematics
When it comes to sending data like on-board computer telematics information over cellular networks, there are two primary aspects a fleet manager needs to consider: Speed and coverage. Let’s start with speed. Technology moves fast and data communication moves even faster. Cellular networks and telematics providers are keeping pace with the ever-evolving technology offering. “Ten
Verizon completes Fleetmatics acquisition
Verizon Communications Inc. has announced the completion of its $2.4 billion acquisition of Ireland-based Fleetmatics Group PLC for $60 per share in cash. “With the close of this transaction, Verizon Telematics is squarely positioned as the global leader in fleet and mobile resource management, leveraging the combined strength of three world-class platforms, now serving every segment
The value of telematics solutions for progressive utility fleets
It should come as no surprise that the educational program at the annual Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference (EUFMC) included a series of presentations on telematics. A growing trend in many light- and medium-duty fleets, telematics was ranked among the highest topics by fleet managers attending EUFMC and a perfect addition to a comprehensive program
Photo gallery: The 2017 Ford Super Duty
At an event this month in Denver, Colo., Fleet Equipment was given the opportunity for extensive test drives of Ford’s new 2017 Super Duty. The 2017 edition of the Super Duty is the first that the company has designed from the ground up in 18 years. FE Associate Editor Alex Crissey took the new trucks for a
Isuzu’s 2018 FTR charts a new course to deliver efficiency
At this year’s NTEA Work Truck Show, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America pulled the curtain back on the latest evolution of its F-Series Class 6 medium-duty truck. The new 2018 Isuzu FTR, notably, is the first truck in the Class 6 segment to offer a 5.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine. It’s a move that Isuzu
Onboard telematics bring new capabilities to light-duty fleets
Telematics solutions are rapidly becoming a growing trend with light-duty fleets, as they begin to require more detailed views of their vehicles to more efficiently manage operations. For an example, just look at this recent announcement by General Motors: GM has launched a new platform specifically designed for small businesses to access key vehicle information
Tough gets tougher: Ford’s 2017 F-Series Super Duty
Summer was made for blockbusters: big jobs tackled by game-changing trucks. When faced with seemingly insurmountable vocational tasks, Ford Trucks stacked the deck in its favor with the new 2017 F-Series Super Duty, which is poised to tackle even more difficult tasks than its namesake implies, thanks to a fully boxed frame comprised of more than
Kyocera unveils ruggedized smartphone for AT&T Fleet Complete
In collaboration with AT&T and Fleet Complete, Kyocera Communications Inc. unveiled the first ruggedized Android devices to support AT&T Fleet Complete, a family of GPS-based tracking and management solutions for the transportation industry. This is available on Kyocera’s DuraForce and DuraForce XD smartphones. “Between the constant need for communication and increasingly stringent regulations for hours of
Easing ELD concerns
While the implementation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s electronic logging device (ELD) rules will usher in significant changes for our industry, there are many potential benefits. Despite the startup costs and learning curves, fleets may be poised to see significant improvements. “As fleets adopt various solutions, one of the biggest areas of concern
Using ‘gamification’ to improve driver behavior, protect your equipment
How can fleet managers and owners use smartphones, a readily available device owned by most drivers, to correct unsafe driver behavior and create a culture of greater safety and productivity? By using proactive coaching and training methods available in what’s called “gamification.”
