Fleet management is transforming rapidly thanks to the introduction of technologies like predictive maintenance, sophisticated GPS monitoring, and even automation. The advent of these systems (and many more) has brought myriad benefits to the logistics industry, allowing for reduced operational costs, improved fuel efficiency, and—an increasingly important aspect these days—reduced environmental impact.
While all these innovations have modernised fleet management, the industry will receive a push into the future, thanks to the introduction of data-driven technology, advanced telematics, and Internet of Things (IoT) equipment. According to British-Dutch oil company Shell, it is estimated that in 2028, more than 35 million trucks worldwide will be connected due to these technologies1. Moreover, connected trucks can save up to 60% of a fleet’s operational expenses, which means potential savings can be passed on to customers. Here are just two ways fleet management can be improved with advanced telematics.
“For many retailers, managing an in-house fleet comes with significant costs and operational challenges. By outsourcing logistics, businesses can focus on their core operations while benefiting from optimised routes, reduced fuel expenses, and proactive vehicle maintenance,” commented Ryan Gaines, CEO of City Logistics.
“With the latest advancements in telematics and predictive analytics, we’re able to enhance efficiency, lower emissions, and ensure reliable deliveries. As technology evolves, integrating these innovations into logistics operations will be key to driving long-term sustainability and cost savings,” added Gaines.
GPS tracking for efficiency
GPS-driven tools enable fleet managers to have their vehicles at their fingertips—albeit digitally. By knowing where vehicles are on the road, fleet managers can leverage data to make decisions and improve efficiency, such as sending a truck down a different route or instructing the driver to reduce their average speed.
Importantly, tracking a vehicle allows a business to use metrics that can influence decision-making. These include costs per kilometre, which a fleet manager can adjust and reduce, and the revenue these trucks generate while on the road. While reducing fuel bills is one benefit, fleet managers can also use vehicle analytics to identify potential problems and plan servicing and maintenance before they crop up unexpectedly2.
Predictive Maintenance
As mentioned above, predictive maintenance is a big drawing card of the latest fleet management systems. Fleet managers often have to contend with numerous challenges related to the trucks. Is the fleet being utilised efficiently? Are their high repair costs on the horizon? If so, how long will the vehicle be out of commission for? These and many other factors can make managing a fleet much more difficult, but telematics makes this all the easier.
AI (artificial intelligence) and IoT sensors can alert a fleet manager to a potential problem before it even happens, potentially avoiding hefty repair bills, damage, or even harm to the driver. For example, these systems can pick up things like vibration levels. While that doesn’t sound particularly advanced,, it could suggest a wheel alignment issue or more significant problems like a drivetrain issue. Sensors on the brakes can monitor disc and pad wear, alerting fleet managers to a looming replacement. This tech can even be utilised to monitor exhaust gases, as that can point to engine issues or even a failing catalytic converter3.
The future of telematics and fleet management
While these advancements have been valuable, the future of fleet management and sophisticated telematics still faces some challenges, particularly in Africa. In a recent interview, 3Dtracking CEO Roydon Michael highlighted the region’s growth potential, especially as fleet owners and managers increasingly recognize the impact of advanced telematics on their bottom line.
Michael pointed to challenges such as rising fuel costs, expensive data, and limited 3G coverage beyond larger cities and populated areas. However, network coverage is improving, and when combined with telematics innovations like wireless sensors, it delivers tangible benefits to businesses adopting the technology4.
In terms of trends to watch out for in 2025, Michael anticipates that telematics services will become increasingly common in African markets, driven by RFID-enabled devices that can monitor temperature and humidity, for example.
