Ford Telematics integrates third-party brands

Ford Telematics has implemented a new feature that allows fleet managers to manage vehicles regardless of the manufacturer through the user-friendly companion app Ford Telematics Drive. With the "Multi Make" extension, the proven fleet management system is even more powerful, promotes the provider. Additionally, the Ford Telematics Drive app can show fleet managers which employee is currently on the road with which vehicle. Furthermore, vehicles can be digitally monitored, and any issues are reported directly to the fleet manager via the telematics system.

"We know that many of our fleet customers operate not only Ford vehicles but also other brands in their fleet. At the same time, they want to take advantage of Ford Telematics," explains Dave Phatak, Director of Ford Commercial Solutions Europe.

The telematics system offers access to data from integrated vehicles and makes it available through what is said to be an intuitively operated internet portal almost in real time. Fleet managers, fleet operators and their employees should gain an informed insight into the performance of their own company car fleet and could use this information to, for example, optimize the deployment times of their vehicles, reduce unproductive idle and downtime, and improve driver safety, so the promise goes.

Thanks to the new functionality, the downtime of the vehicle fleet could be reduced, maintenance planned, and improved driver training implemented without having to use solutions from multiple automobile manufacturers, says the manufacturer. The system expansions are part of the regular Ford Telematics subscription at no additional cost and is compatible with most vehicles manufactured from 2015 onwards. The system works with a Plug-In Device (PID) that is connected to the respective vehicle via the OBD 2 port or the wiring harness.

App aims to help digitize everyday life

The companion app is also included in the subscription and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Updates provided by drivers via the app would reach the fleet managers without delay over the internet. Writing emails or even noting incidents on paper should thus become a thing of the past, they promote. Functions include:

• Driver-to-vehicle assignment, where drivers can select a vehicle electronically and pair it with a smartphone or tablet. This makes processes always transparent for fleet managers.
• Digitalized daily checks to ensure the roadworthiness of the vehicle continuously, as fleet managers can immediately recognize and respond to potential issues.
• Reports: For example, in the event of accidents or other problems during the workday, incidents can be reported quickly and easily. Photos can also be sent directly from the driver to the fleet manager.

The application offers fleet managers up-to-date information feeds from all connected drivers at any time, to optimize training, problem-solving, and maintenance scheduling. New customers benefit from a free trial version of the product, including the Multi-Make function and the app, until December 30, 2020. The system is available in German, English, French, Italian, and Spanish.