Webfleet Solutions: Continued Growth in 2021, New Services for 2022

The Bridgestone subsidiary Webfleet Solutions claims to have benefited from the COVID-19 pandemic: the corona pandemic has accelerated the development towards stronger digitalization. According to Webfleet Solutions, this led to more fleets beginning to use telematics systems and new technologies in 2021 compared to before. A recent study by Webfleet Solutions shows that 74% of commercial fleets in Europe have introduced more digital solutions since the start of the pandemic. Solutions for the management of workflows and for the optimization of orders were particularly in demand, gaining significant acceptance in the transport sector last year.

"Our growth shows that our customers want to position themselves more effectively and dynamically in order management and disposition," explains Taco van der Leij, Vice President of Webfleet Solutions Europe, adding:

"We have focused on several product developments in the transport sector to help our customers achieve more efficiency and safety for their fleets."

 

Simple factory connection: OEM.connect

According to Webfleet, telematics for companies should be designed to be as simple and cost-effective as possible – without the need to purchase and install additional equipment. In 2021, Webfleet Solutions was able to attract BMW and Mercedes-Benz Connectivity Services for its OEM.connect program, which allows Webfleet customers to integrate their own vehicles directly through the factory-installed telematics hardware. Entering the vehicle identification number (VIN) is enough to activate the connection with Webfleet and utilize all the benefits of networking.

But the parent company's tire pressure monitoring system was also integrated: In 2021, Webfleet Solutions developed Webfleet TPMS in collaboration with Bridgestone, a monitoring system that continuously checks the tire pressure and temperature of equipped vehicles and informs drivers and fleet managers in good time about problems and dangers.

AI is now also being introduced into the Webfleet system

The new solution, Webfleet Video, jointly developed with partner Lytx, combines dashcam footage, artificial intelligence, and driving data to detect dangerous situations inside and in front of the vehicle.

Both solutions are intended to help prevent breakdowns due to unexpected immobilizations and traffic accidents. This saves companies and employees time, money, and stress, and protects drivers and vehicles from damage. And optimal tire condition and driving behavior are also crucial for the environment, as they not only reduce maintenance and fuel costs but also help minimize CO2 emissions.

 

Focus for 2022: Sustainability and Solutions for Electric Vehicles

"Last year, we doubled our customer base for electric vehicles," says Taco van der Leij and notes:

"The year 2022 will be a turning point for the acceptance of electric vehicles, as gradually more models become available, the charging infrastructure improves, and government regulations tighten. The use of software solutions for managing electric vehicles will therefore become increasingly important, as fleets will need support in switching to electric vehicles, developing charging strategies, and optimizing the usage and operation of electric vehicles."

What does that mean?

The topic of telematics will become even more important in the fleet business in the future. Accordingly, Webfleet is upgrading its offerings and expanding its range. Moreover, details such as maintenance tips or tire pressure monitoring can significantly contribute and help reduce the fleet's CO2 emissions and energy requirements.