June/July 2007

You can analyse the efficiency of your transport fleet with a new system from tracking and fleet management specialist Isotrak. The company is calling it Transport Efficiency Analysis, or TEA, and says it is the first product of its kind in this market.

Most tracking systems, of course, offer reporting of one sort or another, allowing operators to evaluate fleet performance, but Isotrak reckons its new system goes further. It 'finally bridges the credibility gap between the typical benefits of a transport management system É and specific, objective proof of return É on investment,' the company claims.

In particular, Isotrak says it helps operators reduce the carbon footprint of their activities, as well as saving costs and improving customer service.

TEA takes the form of a pilot implementation study, typically undertaken using a representative sample of vehicles chosen from an operator's fleet, and lasting for two or three months. Participating vehicles are equipped with Isotrak's GPRS/satellite tracking module and its CANbus engine telematics interface.

Data monitored includes time spent in 'unknown locations' and 'restricted places'; plan versus actual performance; vehicle utilisation; fuel saving opportunities; and carbon emissions.

Operators previously taking advantage of Isotrak's service include Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencer and the Royal Mail. By integrating sites, fleets, deliveries and collections, Marks & Spencer's general merchandise operation is said to have reduced mileage by 14 per cent.