Connected vehicle data to replace fleet telematics, predicts Epyx

Data from connected vehicles will become the successor product to telematics for fleet operators, according to Epyx.

The automotive sector software specialist says that connected vehicle data offers key advantages over telematics including the fact that information comes direct from the vehicle and avoids the need for an intermediary device to be fitted or carried.

Debbie Fox, commercial director at Epyx, said: “Fleets have been promised the benefits of connected vehicle technology for many years now but bringing it to market in a commercially viable manner has proven difficult for a range of reasons. Now, this picture is rapidly changing.

“The three stumbling blocks have been the proportion of fleet cars and vans that can provide connected vehicle data, the cost of accessing it, and the means to present that information to fleets in a format that makes it genuinely productive.

“Today, we’re in a situation where all of these issues are close to being resolved, we believe. Connected vehicle penetration within the fleet parc is already high and should represent the vast majority of vehicles by the middle of the decade.

“New ways of accessing the data at reasonable cost are now becoming available that make it much more affordable, at least comparable to the pricing of traditional telematics, bringing it within the reach of most fleets.

“Finally, providing fleets with connected vehicle data in a format that is meaningful and creates a range of cost, service and efficiency benefits is something that is very much our area of expertise, and we actively working with partners to bring a product to market.”

Connected vehicle data comes directly from each vehicle’s management system, offering enhanced capability.

Epyx has been in dialogue with major leasing fleets about the variety of data that could be accessed through connected vehicle - and real-time mileage information was always top of the list.

Generally, leasing fleets are only able to access a reading when service or maintenance work in undertaken but having a more regular figure would give them much better visibility over vehicle usage and costs, as well as reducing fraud.

Access to the data can be potentially arranged in moments, simplifying commercial arrangements with no need for an upfront investment and much more flexible contract terms.

Over the next few months, Epyx will investigate a potential product including real world trials examining a whole series of data points, ranging from GPS and odometer readings to warning lights triggered and driver behaviour.