Fleet operators using the Ford Telematics fleet management system can now integrate vehicles from other brands into the tool.

It is now possible to view and monitor key data from non-Ford vehicles directly through Ford Telematics, saving duplication of systems and effort. The system is compatible with most vehicles built from 2015 and works using a plug-in device (PID) that connects to each vehicle via an OBD2 port or wiring harness.

Ford has also launched the Ford Telematics Drive companion app, which can show fleet managers who is driving which vehicle, digitise daily vehicle checks, and enable drivers to report damage or mechanical issues directly to the fleet manager’s Ford Telematics system.

“We know that many of our customers operate multi-make fleets, but also want to use Ford Telematics’ advanced capabilities,” said Dave Phatak, director, Ford Commercial Solutions Europe. “Our enhanced platform provides exciting new tools to boost productivity for our customers, not only delivering multi-make capability, but also a companion app that will bring new efficiencies to their fleet operations.”

The system, which was developed to help deliver improved uptime, increased efficiency and reduced administration for fleet operators, now has a redesigned dashboard that clearly tracks vehicle performance and health alerts, as well as driver behaviour and fuel efficiency.

The Ford Telematics Drive companion app is included with a Ford Telematics subscription and is compatible with devices running Android or iOS. Updates provided by drivers via the app are received immediately by the fleet manager through the Ford Telematics web interface for faster, more efficient communication to replace slower email- or paper-based systems.

Ford Telematics Drive enables:

• Driver to vehicle association, where drivers can electronically select and pair to a vehicle, providing details to the fleet manager
• Digitised daily checks, so drivers can complete checks and ensure roadworthiness, and fleet managers can track damage or cosmetic issues from each shift
• Issue reporting, so drivers can quickly and easily flag defects, estimate severity, and immediately send details and photos to the fleet manager’s Ford Telematics dashboard.

New users of Ford Telematics can benefit from a free trial of the product, including multi-make functionality and Ford Telematics Drive, until December 30, 2020.