When adopting environmentally friendly fleet management solutions, companies and entities that own fleets of vehicles will gain many benefits. These solutions save costs in terms of decreased fuel consumption, optimized route planning, and better vehicle maintenance. As business reaps benefits from green fleet management, the environment also gains in terms of reduced carbon emission and other pollutants. Technology is paramount in the implementation of green fleet management.
One piece of technology that would come in handy is the Eyeride APC. This is often used for companies operating buses as this people-counting technology provides information about the bus, the operating routes, and the stops. It also gives instantaneous information about how commuters are making use of your buses.
This article delves into three ways how GPS monitoring can help fleets with detailed solutions under each group. These offer financial and environmental advantages to the company.
Fleet Scheduling
Basic route arrangement
Substantial saving can be realized from the proper planning of the routes or delivery. Fleet managers can arrange geographic areas into zones and then allocate routes. This will prove efficient and cheap. Google maps can be of great help when arranging routes – it is equipped with some advanced features that will assist you. Other online programs and apps can be used to plan routes too. For example, you can make a google map with Maptive and customize it to suit your needs
Install a satellite navigation system in your vehicles
Drivers will avoid getting lost or end up diverting from the set course, consuming more fuel, if their vehicles are fitted with satellite navigation systems. Consider installing a GPS navigation system on your vehicles in your fleet. Then look for a reliable service provider by either checking your local electronic retail outlets, or searching for providers which are recommended online which are usually far cheaper.
Driver efficiency
Regular vehicle maintenance
Set up a schedule to make sure that all drivers regularly inspect tires on their vehicle, namely for tire pressure and tread status. Moreover, bonnet checks should be done regularly to maintain proper levels of oil, water, and anti-freeze. The green fleet management policy should be updated and all drivers familiarized with its principles. Having a fleet management policy in place is recommended as it outlines the way of running your fleet. It defines the routes followed, the qualities of the drivers that you hire, the vehicles you acquire, and the obligation of the drivers in ensuring their safety and that of the vehicles.
Train drivers on safety and efficiency
Investing in drivers’ training will significantly minimize road safety perils, reduce insurance costs, and make the overall fleet performance better. Emphasis should be placed on careful driving that is characterized by better anticipation of the road ahead, avoidance of harsh acceleration, and heavy braking.
Vehicle efficiency
Acquire telematics systems or fleet GPS tracking systems
Telematics systems are highly advanced technologies used to transmit data to and from an automobile. The information relayed is processed to help improve the performance of the vehicle and keep a check on its whereabouts. You need to visit or get in touch with several service providers to choose the telematics system that will be the best for your company.
Proper maintenance of the vehicle
Each vehicle should undergo servicing, maintenance, and repairs at least once a year. An updated service record should be in place for each vehicle to ensure that the particular vehicle is operating safely and efficiently.
Better choice of vehicle
At the point of buying or leasing a vehicle, ensure the total costs, including fuel expenses, are factored in. Some key aspects that should be considered include the emissions profile, engine efficiency, and fuel consumption.
Conclusion
Adopting green fleet management practices will help you save on costs and reduce carbon emission. You can save between 10% and 15% of the fuel and maintenance costs. These measures can be implemented even for small fleets.