About the Customer
Based in Loughborough, where it operates a state-of-the-art warehousing facility, the company prides itself on a flexible and pro-active approach, working in partnership with customers to deliver cost-effective solutions.
Business Challenge
In opting for a fleet management system, ETS Distribution was primarily seeking a vehicle tracking solution in order to be able to maximise the utilisation of its fleet and thereby ensure maximum efficiency in operation. In addition to this, the ability to provide up-to-the-minute information on loads and delivery times was seen as a substantial benefit from the point-of-view of company's customers.
How MiX Telematics helped
It rapidly became clear that MiX Telematics' Fleet Manager solution not only met but exceeded the expectations of ETS Distribution:
"The Fleet Manager system was capable of offering more than others we looked at, as in addition to tracking it would enable us to measure and report on aspects of driving behaviour," confirms ETS Distribution's Operations Director, Paul Wreaves. "We appreciated this could lead to significant benefits in terms of fuel-efficiency."
"We decided to test the system in conjunction with a planned programme of driver-training, targeted at reducing over-speeding, over-revving, harsh acceleration, harsh braking and excessive idling. Fleet Manager automatically generates driver scores, with 100 percent being a perfect result, and our driver trainer would focus on working with the lowest scoring drivers to help uplift their overall performance and standard of driving.
"We began by piloting the system on six vehicles. The benefits immediately became apparent and convinced us to roll-out Fleet Manager across our entire fleet of 24 trucks."
Results Obtained
- Fuel efficiency increased by 10.3 percent
- Reduction in carbon footprint accordingly
- Wear and tear down across fleet
- Driver and vehicle movements known at all times
- Customers appreciate the increased control of loads and delivery times
- Reduced insurance premiums
Notable project features
Fleet Manager used as an integral part in on-going driver training programme to ensure highest standards of driving and driver performance are achieved and maintained at all times.
About MiX Telematics Fleet Manager solutions
Every MiX Telematics Fleet Manager solution combines leading-edge fleet management technology with clear and simple reporting. Located at the heart of the system is the FM Communicator, MiX Telematics' on-board data computer which can be set to gather a range of information relating to driver and vehicle performance.
By capturing and comparing the driving styles of staff, the system can be used in conjunction with an appropriate driver training programme to bring about dramatic reductions in fuel consumption. Typically, the information Fleet Manager provides can be used to derive fuel savings of approximately ten percent.
Having visibility of every driver's performance also enables operators to address issues such as over-revving and harsh acceleration and braking, all of which when controlled can lead to lower accident rates, reduced wear and tear and maintenance costs.
For the fleet manager, information is delivered direct to the desktop via FM Web, MiX Telematics' secure internet-based reporting suite. Available 24/7, FM Web can be customised to automatically generate individually-tailored reports at a time of the operator's choosing.
And to help drivers out on the road, the optional MiX Telematics RIBAS display delivers instant feedback by providing an on-board visual indicator as to driving style. Whenever one of RIBAS' parameters is exceeded, a light is illuminated to inform the driver:
R over Revving
I excessive Idling
B harsh Braking
A harsh Acceleration
S over Speeding
In addition, Fleet Manager can be used in conjunction with a PDA to manage a range of tasks including daily safety checks and delivery/collection confirmation in real time. When linked into existing office software, Fleet Manager provides a direct channel of communication between vehicles and the traffic office, thereby providing a valuable and powerful business tool.
Every Fleet Manager solution comes with the full backing and support of MiX Telematics. From setup and integration into existing operations, through to providing advice on introducing the system to drivers and interpreting the results, MiX Telematics' consultants work closely with operators to help maximise the return on investment in the shortest possible time frame.
