Co-op rolls out telematics to manage its truck fleet

The Fleet Performance system from Microlise forms part of the Co-op’s ambition to increase technology integration and drive a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and fuel usage. It covers 1,344 heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and extends the long-term nine year partnership between the two companies.

The use of this technology encourages drivers to adopt a fuel efficient driving style. It includes a journey management module features a Schedule Execution Board, which gives the insight and visibility to debrief drivers by exception against route and schedule adherence.

The Co-op is also rolling out Microlise’s electronic proof of delivery module to manage delivery and collection processes electronically.  

Fleet Performance​

Trials of the Fleet Performance product were carried out at selected depots to establish if improvements in driving style could deliver tangible business benefits. After realising improved safety and significant savings in fuel consumption, carbon dioxide emissions and a reduction of accidents, the decision was made to undertake a full-scale roll-out across its entire fleet.

The system also includes temperature monitoring of trailers and uses technology for two-way messaging, vehicle checks, integrated satellite navigation appropriate for HGVs and manifest management.

“We needed a technology refresh and had a clear objective to realise further reductions on our environmental footprint by reducing fuel consumption yet further,” ​said Jon Paul Brown, the Co-op Group’s national transport manager. “We also wanted to ensure greater integration across our fleet.”​

Vehicle utilisation​

During the trial the Co-op also realised improvements in vehicle utilisation and gained benefit from having full visibility of its fleet against schedule and real-time arrival and departure displays.

The solution is integrated with Paragon routing and scheduling with Manhattan warehouse management software to ensure the vehicle routes are optimised and the proof of delivery application has the trip and manifest information available to the driver.