What Is Vehicle Tracking System - Your One-Stop Solutions

Maintain accountability for your drivers, manage costs, and enhance fleet security with a vehicle tracking system. Transportation is vital for any business. Improving vehicle operations is important for fleet or taxi industry business owners. 

The vehicle tracking market has rapid growth. Global reports indicate that market growth will expand to $14.957 billion by 2025. Whereas it was around $3.795 billion in 2018. So, there is a massive future for this tracking system in the future. 

In this case, this tracking system is the ideal solution. So, let’s discover what a vehicle tracking system is in this insightful blog. We'll explore here what vehicle tracking is, and how it can improve the flexibility of your fleet.

What Is Vehicle Tracking System 

Vehicle tracking is used to monitor, manage, and maintain vehicles or fleets. You can control it via online computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices. This software allows users to have complete control over their vehicles. 

With a vehicle tracking system, you can monitor:

• Vehicle speed history.
• Routes taken.
• Stopping points.
• Idling times.
• Users receive detailed information on a 24/7 basis.

Due to the above things, thanks to GPS satellites and vehicle tracking software.

Why Do I Need Vehicle Tracking? Lets Breakdown 

But why? Is a real-time vehicle tracking system really a big deal? Absolutely.

This tracking system not only monitors your vehicles. It simplifies the management of daily transportation activities as well. 

Let’s look at a real-world example. Fleet managers have many responsibilities daily. They need to know

• Where are their vehicles?
• How long have they been in operation?
• Where are they heading?
• How long will the driver take to deliver, and so on?

The main problem is that this information is often sent randomly and inaccurately. In that case, the driver fleet owner relies on phone communication. Due to this communication system, drivers may have a chance for miscommunication with the fleet owner. In that case, a vehicle or heavy device tracking system can be the best way to track and communicate.

However, we know well, manual managing process is extremely challenging. It is a challenging thing for the drivers to ask for their location and vehicle condition as well. That’s why vehicle tracking software comes in for improving fleet operations.

In the first half of 2023, According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), nearly 500,000 vehicles were stolen globally. An increase of more than two percent compared to the first half of 2022.

Losing a vehicle to theft is costly for your business. It is terrible news for fleet managers as well. Installing this tracking system solves problems. However, let’s discuss how vehicle tracking system works.

How Does Vehicle Tracking System Work?

A vehicle tracking system utilises GPS (Global Positioning System), mobile networks, and a web platform.

Global Positioning System (GPS) 

GPS vehicle tracking system is a satellite-based radio navigation system. It provides real-time data on location, vehicle speed, time, and direction through the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) network. This system allows for central monitoring and maintaining a history log.

GPS Receiver

A GPS receiver receives a signal. It is installed in each vehicle. GPS receivers receive signals from multiple GPS satellites. These satellites provide specific location and timing information.

Data Collection

The GPS receiver calculates the vehicle's exact position (latitude and longitude) based on GPS satellites signal. This data is collected periodically, or every few seconds.

Data Transmission

The collected data is transmitted to a central server or a cloud-based platform using three methods:

• Cellular network system.
• Satellite network system.
• Radio communication system.

The data transmission system allows real-time or near-real-time tracking of the vehicle's location.

Data Processing

The central server or cloud-based platform receives data from all vehicles in the fleet. It processes this data to display the vehicle's location on a map and stores historical location information.

User Interface and Fleet Management Solution

Users, such as fleet managers or vehicle owners, can access the tracking system through a web-based or mobile application. They can view the real-time location of each vehicle on a map and access various reports and alerts.

Alerts and Notifications

Vehicle tracking systems can be configured to send alerts and notifications based on specific events or conditions. These alerts can include speeding, unauthorised use, maintenance reminders, and more. 

Historical Data

The system stores historical data. It allows users to review past routes, speeds, and other vehicle-related information. This data can be valuable for analysing vehicle usage, improving efficiency, and enhancing security.

What is Active Vehicle Tracking System?

This system continuously sends a signal. No matter where the vehicle is. It allows you to track a vehicle up to the minute. You don't have to wait to download data. You can view the live location on a map instantly. An active tracker can communicate with all operators. 

It is especially useful in an emergency situation, such as hijacking or stolen vehicles, accidents on the road, etc. It provides security for both drivers and passengers as well. However, who should use an active real-time vehicle tracking system?

• For individuals. 
• For commercial businesses.
• Construction companies.
• Taxi fleet management.
• Medicine industry for medicine supply.
• Supply chain in heavy manufacturing industry. 
• Food industry for food supply. 

What Is a Passive Vehicle Tracking System?

In this system, GPS devices collect data and then download it for later viewing. It doesn't report in real-time. Instead, this tracking system silently gathers data that you can access after downloading it. Once you have the data, you will be able to see exactly where the tracker has been.

This is an excellent option for budget-minded fleet management and is easy to understand. Who should use the passive GPS tracking system? 

• Those interested in tracking historical data or monitoring last month's records.
• Users who need to track their mileage for work purposes.

So now it's up to you. You know the differences, and you understand your requirements. Choose the tracking system that best fits your needs.

Difference Between Active And Passive Vehicle Tracking System

Thinking of investing in a vehicle GPS-tracking system? It can be a tough decision. First, you need to understand the difference between passive and active tracking. Not all GPS devices operate the same way or offer the same capabilities.

Active or passive? Which one should you choose?

It is noted that an active or a passive device depends on your specific requirements. Let's explore the differences between these two tracking systems:

• How they function
• What features they offer
• How they track and report data

The most significant difference between active and passive vehicle trackers lies in how they collect data. 

• Active trackers send signals to receivers in real time. 
• Passive trackers rely on cell phone towers or existing GPS signals to collect data. 
• Active trackers can gather data more quickly. 
• Passive trackers are typically less expensive.

Top 5 Reasons Why Vehicle Tracking Is Good For Your Business

Every business owner wants to do their business smartly. So, if you want to handle your business smartly with maximum profitability, then choose VMS.

After knowing What is vehicle tracking system is and how it works.

We gather the five best reasons why you should invest in this tracking system. 

1. Keep Fuel Costs Down

Minimising fuel costs is one of the best reasons to invest in vehicle tracking. Vehicle tracking software can help you to reduce fuel expenses. You can receive 24/7 reports on poor driving habits that lead to extra fuel consumption. 

By installing a vehicle tracking system, you can easily identify unauthorised vehicle use, which can also increase fuel costs.    

Think about it! Your drivers may not be concerned about maximising fuel efficiency. They are not aware of minimising wear and tear on the vehicles. They might not even notice the check engine light.

Vehicle tracking software provides detailed reports on all your vehicles, helping you save on extra costs.  

2. Protect Your Business Against Fraud

Are you familiar with fuel cards? Most fleet companies use them, and you can easily link these cards to your vehicle tracking software. By integrating your vehicle GPS tracker, you will see the numerous benefits. 

Benefits of a this tracking system: 

• Cross-reference stations
• Monitor fuel card usage.
• Location verification.

You can track payment history, card usage, and other financial data. If employees are using company fuel cards to fill their personal cars without authorization, then GPS tracking assists to find out.     

3. Driver Safety And Vehicle Security 

Whenever your vehicle is involved in an accident, the burden of repairs falls on you. This tracking system can help to eliminate this unexpected chaos. VMS helps you keep your drivers (and vehicles) safer on the road:

• Speed alerts.
• Unplugged device notifications. 
• Crash detection alerts.

Keeping your fleet safe on the road is mandatory. What about when vehicles are parked for extended periods? How will you know if they are secure? A Vehicle Monitoring System (VMS) is the answer.

The Vehicle Management System helps you by:

• Receive disturbance alerts if an attempt to break into your vehicle.
• If someone steals your vehicle, you can track it in real time and provide location information to authorities instantly. 

4. Quality Of Customer Service 

Suppose you have a delivery within 50 minutes. What should you do? With a vehicle tracking system, it's an easy task.

However, without a vehicle monitoring system, a one-star review could be coming your way. You would struggle to locate which vehicle is nearest to the customer's location. With a tracking system, this process becomes straightforward.

Vehicle tracking software enables you to:

• Provide accurate delivery times, keeping your customers informed and satisfied.
• Track shipments in real time, building trust and enhancing customer experiences.
• Build solid brand loyalty by ensuring timely and reliable deliveries.

5. Maximum Productivity And Efficiency

A vehicle tracking system grants you this power. From optimising routes to identifying inefficient driving patterns. This technology ensures your fleet operates at maximum efficiency. Do you manage a taxi fleet? Save time and boost productivity. This software not only reduces fuel costs but increases overall productivity, ensuring your business peak efficiency as well.

Looking for the best vehicle tracking device? Find the ideal solution for your business. Start using a Vehicle Management System (VMS).

In just a few steps, our VMS lets you find the perfect solution for your unique business asset management needs.

To Conclude 

A vehicle tracking system is a game-changer for fleet management across various industries. Its unique functions include real-time tracking and driver behaviour monitoring. You can enhance efficiency, security, and transparency in your fleet operations like never before. Speed up the future of vehicle management with a reliable vehicle monitoring system