Nov/Dec 2004

Scottish Water is to roll out a telematics system in its 1,700-strong transport and service fleet. Following a year-long trial, the company has appointed Reading-based AssetCo to supply and support the system.

On-board units with GPS-based automatic location capability will transmit key information from the vehicles back to base via a mobile network, providing operational managers via the Internet with information on the activity and behaviour of vehicles. Such details are expected to include journey reports, fuel usage records and geographic location.

According to Graeme Hill, head of logistics at Scottish Water: "We believe the information É will enable us to make cost-effective and informed decisions, helping us to improve customer service levels and ensure standards are consistent across Scotland."

AssetCo is a long-established major player in public-sector asset management. It has a staff of over 400, works with 500 public and utility sector clients, and manages an asset portfolio of £750 million. Its specialist divisions cover healthcare, IT, emergency services, utility and municipal fleets, vehicle telematics and financing.