Derbyshire Dales District Council is to deploy the GreenRoad system in its fleet of road sweepers, light vans, refuse freighters, and other vehicles. 

The local authority aims to improve fleet performance and driver safety, and enhance visibility into potential liability claims.

The GreenRoad system continuously monitors and analyses 150 separate vehicle movements, detecting events such as sudden acceleration, harsh braking and sharp cornering. Drivers are alerted to their risky behaviour in near-real time via an easy-to-use dashboard display, creating a powerful feedback loop that engages them in taking charge of their own improvement.

Exception-based alerts keep managers aware of emerging issues in real time. A web-based dashboard allows them to monitor the whereabouts and safety status of all vehicles at a glance. Insightful reports can be easily tailored to manager requirements.

Derbyshire Dales District Council was seeking a robust system that would enable managers to monitor fleet activity easily and reliably, even in hilly terrain where mobile signals can be patchy. They also wanted a permanent record of where each vehicle is at any given time, and who is driving.

Peter McEvoy, operations manager, Derbyshire Dales District Council, said: “Accurate up to the minute data is key to any effective fleet management operation, but to me it is essential. 

“We are the most visible operator in the area which inevitably encourages complaints and allegations, the vast majority of which are just wrong.  This necessitates me to undertake thorough investigations which used to take a long time. 

“With the GreenRoad system I am now able to conduct any investigations as required  swiftly and effectively, with the ability to search back and establish where my vehicles and drivers were and what speed they were travelling  at a given time and date. “This reporting facility was very appealing as previously any investigation was very laborious and impractical in terms of time.”

Beyond answering Derbyshire Dales District Council requirements, GreenRoad effects long-term beneficial changes in driving behaviour, leading to reduced fuel bills, lower insurance premiums, a decrease in accident-related costs and less wear-and-tear on vehicles.

“Whilst driver behaviour wasn’t one of my original selection criteria, once I saw the possibilities I was eager to adopt it,” said Mr. McEvoy. “If we can improve driver safety and save on fuel whilst at the same time obtaining comprehensive fleet management information it will be a huge bonus.”

Lucy Thomas, GreenRoad national account manager added:   “To meet the challenges of serving the local community including residents,  businesses and tourists, district councils such as Derbyshire Dales must deploy and manage a wide range of vehicles to maintain infrastructure and provide essential services, often on a limited budget.

“The GreenRoad system adapts to the various vehicle types and sizes, helping employees accomplish on-the-job tasks safely and in a fuel efficient way which in turn further enhances the reputation of the District Council.”

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