The Northamptonshire-based haulage, distribution and warehousing group has around 150 drivers and 100 vehicles on the road, including 17- and 26-tonne rigids, Euroliner curtainsiders, box trailers, skeletals and super cube trailers.
"With such a large and diverse fleet, and with hundreds of ever-changing delivery schedules to manage, we realised the need for a system that could provide closer monitoring and control of driver and vehicle performance," explains director Andy Wreford.
"To this end, we selected the Driver Dashboard solution and find it to be an invaluable tool – not only to help with ongoing driver training and improvement, but also to keep us abreast of any vehicle problems."
In the event of problems, the system interrogates the vehicle's CANbus and relays data to the traffic office to inform managers so they can take action before any serious damage or loss occurs.
"Just recently, we received updates to let us know that a particular driver appeared to be driving in an erratic manner and that fuel consumption was high," recalls Wreford.
"It transpired that the vehicle was to blame, owing to a split intercooler, which was causing power loss. Once rectified, we immediately improved fuel consumption by 18 litres per day."
Wreford also says that the system works well with the firm's GPS vehicle tracking and route optimisation software – also Verilocation – the Driver Dashboard also enables Wreford's driver trainer Vincent Sones to manage training programmes.
"The system gives drivers the chance to monitor their own scores around harsh braking, acceleration, over-torquing, over revving and idling. This not only saves on fuel, but achieves passive safety," comments Sones.
"When a driver is more alert, and concentrating on the job, he often will be less tired or prone to distraction. It is a subtle feature but an enormous benefit."
"It really is a superb device," enthuses Wreford. "It'sasy to use and now an integral part of our operation. The Verilocation team look after any technical issues and are always available."