Networkcar, a Reynolds and Reynolds company, has won a Stevie Award for “Most Innovative Company” in recognition of its Networkfleet wireless vehicle management system for commercial fleets. Networkfleet draws locations-based and mechanical information on a fleet and compiles efficiency and operation reports in near real-time via the web.
Its in-vehicle device collects and wirelessly transmits data directly from a vehicle’s engine computer and a global positioning system (GPS). The system tracks vehicle location, fuel consumption, mileage, speed and idle-time 24/7 through a web application.
In an interview with FleetOwner, Networkcar president Paul Washicko said that Networkfleet won the award because it provides customers with a unique combination of location and vehicle maintenance data.
“We combined both location data and remote diagnostics in one package,” Washicko said. “We have a number of patents around the remote diagnostics. I think we’re changing the industry with the remote diagnostic angle.”
Washicko said the diagnostics capabilities are what give Networkfleet an edge over competing systems. Networkfleet taps directly into the vehicle on-board computer (OBC), enabling the system to send out alerts if the equipment is functioning outside the set parameters. It could automatically send out an email if a vehicle detects a diagnostic trouble code to allow technicians to address problems as they start.
The system even tracks emissions-related issues. For example, in California the system is approved to perform emission checks remotely, Washicko said.
In spite of its potential for helping fleets run more efficiency, Washicko said that trucking companies are still tackling a learning curve on how to integrate this feature into its operations.
“We do have customers who use it solely for remote diagnostics,” he explained, noting some large corporate customers that purchased the system through its maintenance department. “But the majority of our customers haven’t been exposed to the remote diagnostic benefits. We’re changing what customers are looking for.”
Networkfleet processes could also be integrated into existing in-house routing, dispatch and maintenance software, Washicko noted.
For more information on Networkfleet, go to http://www.networkcar.com/networkcar/pub/fleet
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