Northgate has re-launched its intelligent Telematics service to provide fleets with live data that can help to reduce operating costs.

The cloud-based system can plan routes in an intelligent manner and can also work with drivers to maximise driving efficiency along these routes.

Northgate Telematics can be fitted to all of the customers fleet, not only Northgate vehicles.

Neil McCrossan, sales and marketing director at Northgate, said: “Northgate’s full suite of telematics provisions have been designed to help our customers maximise the overall efficiency of their fleets. Whether through good route planning, ensuring that no unnecessary miles are covered, or through increasing vehicle range through better driving styles, our programme gives businesses the tools they need to ensure the best possible usage of their vehicles.”

The system is offered in two service levels. Control provides live vehicle tracking, journey history, the ability to monitor out-of-hours use, vehicle activity, and can generate reports which help the effective utilisation of vehicles.

Control+ delivers bespoke out-of-hours reporting, driver behaviour alerts, a full report suite with bespoke reporting, as well as access to performance dashboards, and real-time alerts via SMS.

Front-facing cameras can be requested for capturing any evidence required in the event of an accident as well as informing operators on driver behaviour. In scenarios where drivers hop in and out of multiple vehicles, Northgate can add driver tracking as a bolt-on service. Esso Fuel Card connectivity is also available to keep track of fuel expenses, saving customers an average of 7p per litre on pump prices. Additionally, Northgate can provide face-to-face training sessions to businesses to ensure the Telematics services are used to maximum effectiveness.

Recording multiple data points, from journey history and average speeds to vehicle idling times, Northgate says the reporting software arms fleet managers with the information needed to maximise the efficient use of fleets.

As a key component in Northgate’s fleet electrification program, Drive to Zero, telematics provision forms a “crucial” first step for fleets looking to transition to electric vehicles. The data captured by the system is used by Northgate to build an accurate picture of vehicle usage, from which a suitability report can be generated, before a robust transition program is then implemented.