A telematics system typically refers to the use of PC based technologies and wireless communications to effectively convey targeted information across an array of networks, working together to improve a number of different business related tasks, functions and services. This integrated use of both informatics and telecommunications, is known as ICT, and broadly describes the use of technology for more advanced real-time communications.
Examples of these advancements include the internet and Global Positioning Systems used in vehicle tracking, while telematics is also being developed and utilised in medical science, governments and security services on a smaller scale. Both GPS and vehicle telematics services are based in the use of a global, interconnected network accessible via a wireless infrastructure. Simply put, it is the high-speed, long-distance transferring of real-time information using technology.
The automotive industry has developed the fastest in the arena of telematics which has revolutionised how vehicles are being used today. Vehicle tracking is possible through the application of telematics and has greatly increased the efficiency, control and safety of fleets – commercial and personal vehicles alike.
Automobile manufactures first incorporated this form of communicating information into the design of their prototype vehicles and the concept was largely accepted by consumers, thus commencing the rapid advancement of this technology within the automotive industry in general. There is a variety of services within the automotive industry attributable to telematics. These include and are not restricted to hands-free mobile connectivity, vehicle tracking, navigation, remote driving assistance and automatic safety warning systems.
The use of the various telematics advancements has subsequently increased vehicle management by allowing the real-time transfer of the vehicle’s information such as fuel consumption, location, engine diagnostics and more. This, in turn, has positively affected the safety of personal vehicles as well as increased the profitability of fleet management companies and the effective management of commercial or company vehicles and drivers.