April/May 2002

Solar-powered telematics

A tracking device that runs on renewable energy is the latest product from Interactive Projects, a UK-based telematics specialist. It has been developed jointly with another telematics company, Intelligent Tracking.

Interactive is the company behind the TrakM8 ("track mate") system, which provides vehicle tracking data direct to mobile phones through SMS messages, as well as via more conventional on-screen displays. It is aimed at car as well as commercial fleets.

 

The new TrackM8 Solo is powered by an array of solar cells, and needs no external power source. Interactive says it can be used either in third-party tracking systems, or in conjunction with its own tracking software systems.

The latest of these is TrakM8 Explorer, which is described as an off-the-shelf PC-based vehicle tracking package for fleets of five to fifty vehicles. The company says it is particularly cost-effective to run with pay-as-you go or "contract SIM" mobile phone accounts (as distinct from those on monthly subscription fees).

TrakM8 systems offer a range of features such as real-time tracking, remote alarms and links with in-cab computers or PDAs. Software development is done by an associated company, Teknotrak.