Grey fleet telematics – is it necessary?
by Fiona Taylor
Many fleet managers will shudder at the thought of installing grey fleet telematics.
It can be a big enough challenge to introduce telematics to company cars. HR, unions and drivers themselves often raise concerns about invasion of privacy. So the idea that an employee will allow it to be fitted to their private vehicle raises a number of issues. However some companies have already introduced grey fleet telematics with great results.
Why grey fleet telematics?
There are compelling reasons for keeping track of grey fleet vehicles. Companies are as responsible for the employees using their own vehicles on business as they are those in company cars, which means duty of care applies.
As well as reporting on a vehicle’s location, grey fleet telematics gives you additional support in your risk management. It builds a profile of how safely and efficiently an employee is driving. This can provide useful information in the event of an accident.
The advantages are not all to the employer. Drivers may see a reduction in their insurance premium. They can also save time by not having to complete some forms by hand.
Instead, the technology marries up fuel consumption with mileage and emails it direct to the driver’s inbox, HR or accounts – whichever is required. If necessary, the system can be set up with an alarm to protect those driving alone, at night or in risky areas. Most telematics systems come with a privacy button, which can be applied according to company requirements, but at least allows the user to turn off tracking when driving private miles.
In short, telematics has a lot of benefits for grey fleet drivers, but it can be a hard sell.
Make it fun
Trainers want to play games when it comes to training and education and use of telematics is no different.
Try to create competition between drivers, with an objective scoring system based on people’s driving and no one will want to be at the bottom of the table. It brings the subject alive for drivers and adding a prize or award motivates them to improve their driving style.
Competition within teams is the ultimate antidote to ‘race you off the lights’.
Call Satmo now on 01274 587748 to talk to us about the grey fleet telematics. We can supply 12v OBD units, allowing your grey fleet drivers to plug them in when on business. Or hardwired units with a privacy fob, allowing grey fleet drivers to keep their private trip private.
Fiona Taylor
Fiona Taylor is the Sales Manager at award winning Satmo Vehicle Tracking. If you feel you need help with your fleet, want to gain back control, save some money and time then please get in touch.
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