This is an age of technology and information. Our everyday routine depends on how much we can learn and adapt according to the changing technologies. Just like every other part of our lives, vehicles and the way they are managed and tracked are also transforming. One technical innovation that is helping in this regard is telematics, hardware and software that are used in tracking everything that is to know about a vehicle.
What is telematics?
Telematics is the latest buzzword that has piqued the interest of various industries. It covers all types of telecommunications, vehicular technologies, road transportation, road safety, electrical engineering (such as sensors) and computer science (such as multimedia and internet). It acts like a “black box” for your vehicle, keeping a record of all the data related to it in real time.
How does telematics work in a car?
In cars, telematics systems collect real-time data using GPS and onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) ports. This data includes speed, engine health, fuel consumption, braking habits and seat belt usage. The information is then transferred through a cellular or satellite network to a centralised cloud platform. Drivers and managers can keep track of this data through a user interface, helping them understand driving behaviour and vehicle performance.
Such data is not only useful for monitoring safety but can also influence the cost of third party car insurance. Insurers can analyse driving habits to offer usage-based insurance (UBI), rewarding safer drivers with lower premiums.
How does telematics software work?
Telematics software processes and presents the information of the vehicle in a way that helps owners and other interested parties understand vehicle usage and maintenance. When the data is collected, an analysis is run by the software, which then generates reports and stores the information. Whenever the owner wants, they can check this information related to vehicle location, maintenance alerts and even driving behaviour.
Applications of telematics
Telematics technology has broad and evolving applications:
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Auto Insurance Telematics
Telematics are increasingly being used in motor insurance, with the introduction of Usage Based Insurance (UBI). The idea behind this is a pay-as-you-go system. For example, a driver who is rash and reckless will be charged for future premiums more than a responsible driver. It also eases in direct customer interaction and validation of claims in case of an accident.
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Intelligent Vehicle Technologies
The evolution of telematics has led us to Intelligent Vehicle Technologies. IVT comprises of electronic, electromechanical as well as electromagnetic devices. These devices are used in conjunction with computer controlled devices and radio receivers to aid in artificial intelligence. This helps car safety systems for making rides safer for the users.
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Wireless Vehicle Safety Communications
This kind of telematics aid in car as well as road safety. Road hazards, location and speed of traffic are transmitted on short range radios. This keeps the drivers and home users updated about the most recent traffic conditions in your area, thereby greatly reducing the chance of accidents and traffic congestions.
Telematics is also used to track freight containers using Global Positioning Satellites (GPS) for increased security and safety. This feature is becoming increasingly important as more shipping companies are modernising their business infrastructure.
Similarly, tracking the movement and position of trailers can also be carried using a mobile network or geo-satellite communication. This software directly updates the tracking details through a PC or web-based software.
Google was the first to present us with a working prototype of self-driving cars. Since then, there have been numerous driving tests that have been deployed. The future of this technology looks promising.
However, there are a few kinks that need to be adjusted. Companies garnered a lot of heat in the news due to minor accidents caused by driverless cars. Regardless of these trivial issues, we are looking towards a bright and innovative future.
Family and Friends Tracking
Telematics can also help you easily locate your friends and family. With the Internet of Things (IOT) on the rise, we can expect fine-grained control of the tracking features. This in turn will help provide assistance in case of emergencies as it has been observed that if help is given on time, it can greatly impact the survival rate of the victim.
Conclusion
Telematics not only works as a vehicle tracking system, but it is also one of the tools that has changed how people own and secure a vehicle. While one should be aware of the advancements in the industry, don’t forget to cover your bases & secure your car with suitable four wheeler insurance. Whether you're a fleet manager looking to improve efficiency or an individual seeking better rates on your third party car insurance, telematics promises better and useful information and control over your vehicle.
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