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).
Applications
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Tracking of Shipments
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.
- Driverless Cars
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 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.