Global factors have sent fuel prices skyrocketing, making it a precious and sought-after commodity. This, in turn, has sent criminality in South Africa into high gear, with recent news covering a range of events where fuel is stolen from private and commercial vehicles. From individuals who got into their car to discover the fuel tank emptied overnight to hijackings of fuel tankers and the siphoning of fuel before the truck was retrieved.

Monitoring Fuel Economy

Through telematics, the consumption of a truck’s fuel usage can be measured for discrepancies in various ways. CAN bus data, in-tank devices, fuel-flow meters, comparing data with actual fuel slips, or applying data settings and reports with Telematics software that integrates with third-party suppliers are just a few examples.

In some cases, it has been found that even small amounts of fuel, syphoned daily or weekly, are challenging to detect. This is where telematics data can be used to flag these incidents for further investigation.

Cameras

Fleet managers can keep a watchful eye on their trucks by using various customisable cameras, both inside and outside of their vehicles. These cameras provide the options of a live view or the setting of specific event triggers, enabling recording in certain prescribed instances, eliminating guesswork and supplying managers with real information on more accurate evidence allowing timeous action.

Unauthorized Use of Vehicle

Through telematics software, vehicle drivers can be checked and controlled to ensure no unauthorised personnel attempt to move or drive vehicles. Some companies integrate their daily work identification tags that drivers use for other purposes like access control, clock-in and clock-out timing, and using the same tags to start specialised vehicles. Giving managers the control to ensure vehicles are not used by drivers who are not qualified or authorised to use them. These driver authorisations, via telematics, also keep fleet managers informed of driver license renewals and provide the platform to use the driver behaviour models that focus on saving fuel.

Geofencing

With geofencing, fleet managers use software to set virtual fencing, a zone in which specific actions can be allowed or disallowed. Managers can set up geo zones on depots, client delivery points, or even workshop areas to track vehicles under maintenance. Various alarm notifications such as SMS, email, or phone calls from a control room can be actioned if a driver violates these predetermined areas. Telematics software offers endless opportunities and is customisable to the needs of your business.

In-tank fuel measuring devices

Ctrack’s software solutions have the ability to overlay data in an endless variety of ways. The user-friendly and fully customisable manner in which data is presented allows fleet managers to quickly identify any shortfalls or implement improvements based on how the machinery is actually being used.

This concludes the #BeyondTracking series of articles that focussed on the applications of Fleet Telematics on Fuel usage during #TransportMonth. Look out for future articles exploring how telematics can make your life easier and your fleet more efficient.