Sixt strikes telematics deal with Geotab

Geotab has agreed a deal to provide Sixt van and truck’s UK fleet of 6,500 vans and lorries with its telematics technology.

The integration, which will roll-out across the next 12 months, will leverage Geotab's original equipment manufacturer (OEM) integrated data to provide predictive maintenance and enhance service, maintenance and repair (SMR). 

The decision to form a long-term partnership follows a successful pilot programme, during which Sixt successfully recovered two stolen vehicles.

David Saint, managing director of Sixt van and truck UK, said: “Partnering with Geotab allows us to harness cutting-edge telematics technology to enhance our fleet operations in the UK. 

“The ability to access accurate, real-time vehicle data enables us to perform predictive maintenance, reduce downtime and offer an improved experience to our customers.”

Rental and leasing organisations have traditionally engaged in bulk purchasing agreements with OEMs, involving complex contracts to sell vehicles back to manufacturers under specific detail-driven conditions, including precise mileage limits and vehicle standards. 

By integrating Geotab's technology, Sixt says it is set to streamline such opaque processes, providing the company with comprehensive management of vehicle data to uphold contract terms and deliver “superior service” to customers.

Implementing predictive maintenance, for example, allows rental companies to anticipate and address vehicle issues before they escalate, thereby minimising unexpected breakdowns and reducing operational costs. 

“We are delighted to be working with Sixt van and truck, delivering an innovative telematics solution to their commercial vehicle fleet across the UK," said Christoph Ludewig, vice president EMEA at Geotab.

“Geotab will provide Sixt van and truck UK with actionable insights that improve efficiency and elevate service quality.” 

He added: “This collaboration not only reinforces our commitment to supporting partners in achieving operational excellence but also marks a key milestone in our continued growth within the rental and leasing space. 

“As we forge new alliances and strengthen existing relationships, we remain focused on delivering telematics solutions that drive real value.”

By integrating Geotab's connected vehicle technology, a rental company last year achieved 100% fleet connectivity in the UK and 67% across six core European markets. 

This data integration has led to improved vehicle recovery rates, real-time collision detection and remote monitoring of vehicle metrics such as odometer readings and fuel levels. 

As part of the partnership, Sixt will explore opportunities to integrate Geotab’s advanced telematics solutions into its rental services, providing end customers with added value