May/June 2004

The new version of DaimlerChrysler's Fleetboard telematics and mobile data unit for at lighter trucks and vans (previewed in the March-April m.logistics) was unveiled at the Institute of Transport & Logistics exhibition this June, and bristled with driver and even consumer appeal.

Like its more targeted big brother (the standard Fleetboard unit), the new model fits into a standard DIN car radio dashboard slot. But unlike its predecessor, it needs no external display, even for navigation functions; instead, it relies on its own built-in orange LED screen - augmented in the case of navigation by voice instructions.

Yet this is no cut-down navigation system, according to UK director Richard Case; it is based on the system used in Mercedes-Benz E-class cars. In fact it is particularly clever in being able to take delivery details transmitted over the GPRS wireless unit, and convert them on the fly into street-level navigation instructions.

The GPRS feature is part of the unit's hands-free mobile phone and tracking function, which allows it to serve as a full telematics unit. The icing on the cake is that the device can also operate as a normal vehicle radio and CD player, complete with push-button tuning. So there is no need to worry about finding room for it.

One thing the new unit doesn't offer is integration with the vehicle's CANbus electronic circuitry; but this is being pushed as a benefit, since fitting is quicker and easier, and there are no compatibility issues.

There is also apparently no provision to add an external monitor if you simply find the shallow fascia display too small; but further developments on this aspect could be in hand. There are also hints that a fuller in-cab navigation system, perhaps using the standard Aplicom colour screen, could be in the wings.

The new unit will be marketed strongly as an all-makes system, and not limited to Mercedes-Benz vehicles. A price of £1,500 has been mentioned, but volume adoption or factory fitment could result in a lower figure.

The unit is due for a formal UK launch later this year.