5 Ways Technology Can Help Increase Fleet ROI

If the global pandemic has taught us anything, it is the value of staying connected. Seemingly overnight, companies across all industries asked many of their workers to connect from home and continue working and communicating. Fleet managers suddenly found their drivers redefined as essential workers — critical to other businesses in the fight to remain operational and productive. The challenge of managing a fleet became even tougher.  While some fleets already had telematics solutions offering tracking, connectivity, safety and reporting tools, many businesses were in need of a solution to help improve their fleet management.

In August 2020, OnStar introduced OnStar Business Solutions which brings four distinct product offerings— OnStar Safety Services[1], OnStar Vehicle Insights[2], API & Data Services, and the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot[3] — to help make fleet management simpler than ever before. With OnStar Business Solutions, fleet managers are able to monitor vehicle locations and maintenance needs and help keep their drivers and assets protected and connected.

Here are five ways the technologies behind OnStar Business Solutions can help increase fleet ROI.

1.  Using data to encourage better driving behavior

When business owners and fleet managers have detailed driving behavior information and get real-time alerts, they can coach their drivers before accidents occur. OnStar Vehicle Insights collects and organizes driving data so that it is easy for managers to review important insights. Rather than compiling statistics and formatting information, managers receive reports and can focus on communicating with drivers about the behaviors that can indicate problems, such as sudden acceleration, hard braking, or speed violations. Encouraging drivers to improve their behavior,  can lead to overall improved safety, proactive reductions in accident-related expenses, and less downtime .

2. Manage vehicles to save fuel and time

Managing fuel cost is always a priority, as it's often the most considerable fleet operating cost. When fleet managers have real-time information on vehicle fuel efficiency, routes, and driver behavior, they can take action. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne Na Laboratory noted that idling in the U.S. uses more than 6 billion gallons of fuel at a cost of more than $20 billion to consumers and businesses EACH year[4]. This does not include the added cost of increased engine wear from idling. Timely knowledge of driver behavior enables fleet managers to explore more cost-effective alternatives for meeting fleets and driver needs. OnStar Vehicle Insights also automates much of the work needed to analyze fleet trip histories that can help save fuel and boost ROI.

3. 24/7 access to safety and OnStar Advisors

Fleet drivers are the original remote workforce. While they may be independent, they don't need to be alone. For over 20 years, OnStar has delivered safety and security technology and expertise that people rely on — at the push of a button. Technology enables a 24/7 connection to specially-trained Advisors who are ready to help your drivers in the event of a crash, a vehicle theft, or even a medical emergency. OnStar Business Solutions’ simplicity and human connection  now supports the unique needs of small business owners and fleet managers anytime and anywhere they need with OnStar Safety Services, such as Safety & Security[5], Assurance[6], or Driver Remote Access[7]

4. Plan for service and maintenance to avoid downtime

Vehicle technology continues to evolve. Today’s vehicles have a myriad of sensors streaming data that can be analyzed. The challenge is linking this river of data from millions of units in operation to algorithms that can boil it all down to useful, actionable information on a per-vehicle basis, like when a component is likely to fail and should be replaced. When fleet managers can plan and schedule service, they can better manage resources, avoid paying a premium for expedited parts and repairs, and control costs. OnStar Vehicle Insights provides a real-time look at vehicle mileage, oil life, and fuel efficiency. Fleet managers benefit from preventative service prompts and maintenance notifications.

5. Enhance both the employee and the customer experience  

Creating a happier workforce is critical in a world of rising customer expectations.

Technology that helps facilitate a connected culture has the potential to create a happier and more productive workforce who is equipped with the tools they need to deliver excellent customer service. For example, Fleet managers with better visibility on reporting regarding driver workload can build better schedules and work-life balance. Another technology-related example is the ability to combine real-time information regarding the location of a customer's order with the power to connect and communicate.

OnStar Business Solutions helps make it all work with Wi-Fi that keeps fleet vehicles and drivers connected. Crews can connect up to seven devices within 50 feet of the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi vehicle hotspot[8]. For even greater fleet technology integration, API & Data Services work with a number of telematic service providers and fleet management companies to provide reliable, accurate data to help take a business' fleet operations to the next level.

When faced with circumstances beyond their control, fleet managers are toned to strengthen their ability to manage what they can control. OnStar Business Solutions enables fleet managers to choose the technology and services that will best keep their fleets protected, connected, informed, and in control, so they are getting the best ROI.

To learn more about how OnStar Business Solutions can aide your business’ needs, contact us at [email protected] or visit OnStar.com/BusinessSolutions for more information.