Presented by David Brown, Associate VP APAC at Geotab, at the Mobility Live event in October, the telematics market maturity model highlights how far fleet technology has evolved. Gone are the days when telematics meant simply “dots on a map” (Level 2) or basic vehicle tracking. Today’s solutions, such as those offered by Geotab, provide comprehensive tools to help fleet managers optimise operations, reduce risk, and transition towards more sustainable fleets.
David Brown outlined five levels of telematics maturity. At the basic levels (1 and 2), fleets operate with minimal or no telematics, often facing high operational costs and low digital maturity. However, the market has shifted towards more advanced applications. Levels 3 to 5 unlock significant value by focusing on the vehicle, the driver, and overall operations.
At Level 3, telematics tools enable predictive maintenance, improved fuel efficiency, and proactive monitoring of vehicle performance. Advancing to Level 4 incorporates driver-centric features, such as fatigue management, safety coaching, and real-time compliance with safety standards. Finally, Level 5 focuses on full operational integration, with telematics becoming a critical part of business operations. It enables efficient routing, emissions tracking, electronic records, and strategic planning, including vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) communication.
For fleet managers, embracing higher-level telematics is essential. These systems can reduce risks, improve compliance with safety and policy requirements, and assist in reducing emissions. They also support fleet electrification and optimise fleet size, ensuring cost-effective operations without compromising service delivery.
David Brown’s insights underline the importance of moving beyond legacy systems. By leveraging modern telematics solutions, fleet managers can streamline operations and transition towards sustainable, compliant, and future-ready fleets. Solutions like Geotab offer the tools to achieve these outcomes, helping fleets meet today’s demands and prepare for tomorrow.