DSV using telematics to improve fuel consumption

Date: 29/11/2012

DSV is using telematics technology to control fleet costs and reduce fuel consumption by recording driver behaviour.

The company has a fleet of 200 (HGVs) heavy goods vehicles and is hoping to set a new benchmark in a number of areas, including cost, safety and carbon emissions through adoption of the technology.

Since DSV spends approximately 40 per cent of its annual operating budget on fuel it is important that everything is done to keep the costs as low as possible, reports Fleet News.

Dave Smith, UK Operations Director at DSV, said: "Tackling the main issues of driver behaviour, fuel cost and environmental impact, remain a major challenge for fleet managers who have seen HGV running costs hit an all-time-high thanks to the price of diesel."

He went onto say that the company has been using telematics for the past year and found that the return on investment is good.

Mr Smith said that greater control is achieved over the big issues which affect fleet operators, such as cost, driver safety and environmental impact.

He said: "The initial saving is just the tip of the iceberg. We believe that continuing development in the application of telematics, will result in new benchmarks in driver performance, fuel cost management and eco-friendly driving."

Telematics works through a box which is installed into the vehicle, usually on the dashboard, and combines GPS with on-board diagnostics.

This maps and records exactly where a vehicle is, what speed it is going at and how it is being driven, including any dangerous manoeuvres.

DSV then uses the telematics technology to produce a monthly report for each of its drivers outlining fuel economy, driver behaviour and any areas where extra training should be carried out.

Mr Smith said: "It is this collaboration between traditional training methods and the latest telematics technology which we believe is the key to the programme's success."

He also said that the drivers have been positive about its implementation as they realise that it benefits them as well as the company.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News