June/July 2008

Ford is to offer an extended range of telematics options for its Transit and Transit Connect light vans, using a branded version of the telematics system from UK supplier Cybit. The product is offered as an aftermarket option, and is known as Ford Fleet Telematics.

The development follows the signing of what is described as an exclusive partnership agreement between Ford Motor Company and Cybit, which formalises an existing relationship between the two companies.

Until now, reports provided by the Ford system have been concerned mainly with operational functions such as vehicle utilisation, traffic information and tracking. The strengthening of ties means that Cybit has been able to access to detailed and confidential Ford CANbus coding information concerning the vehicle itself.

The company says the underlying software will now be able to capture data on vehicle performance, providing much deeper analysis of vehicle functions.

The Cybit system uses a discreetly-mounted GPS device inside the vehicle to provide real-time positioning information. This is collated with CANbus data and transmitted via O2's GPRS network to Cybit's servers, and forms the basis of a range of user-defined reports, providing real-time fleet visualisation or historical analysis. These are then distributed via the internet.