Mack Trucks has made available a new integrated, expandable open telematics platform for fleet managers and drivers that includes access to fleet management, an electronic logging device (ELD) and driver compliance solutions. On Monday, the Greensboro-based heavy truck maker announced Geotab Connected by Mack, a cloud-based platform that requires no additional installation or hardware on 2015 and newer Mack truck models.
“Mack Trucks is pleased to partner with Geotab to offer a cloud-based integrated platform for fleet management and driver compliance,” said David Pardue, Mack Trucks vice president of connected vehicle and uptime services. “Geotab enables customers and drivers to generate multiple reports that can help them be more efficient and improve productivity, all through one integrated platform.”
Included in Geotab Connected is Geotab Drive, an ELD application launched by Mack in 2019 that leverages cloud computing via Geotab, a global leader in IoT and transportation solutions. The device, factory-installed in every Mack vehicle, sends engine and position data to the cloud, which then generates automatic duty status logs. The driver can access these through the Geotab Drive app on a mobile device.
“As a company dedicated to optimizing fleet management, it is exciting to work together with Mack to not only increase value for customers through this robust fleet management offering, but also to help simplify the customers experience by offering one integrated, easy-to-use platform,” said Scott Sutarik, Geotab vice president of commercial vehicle solutions.
The cloud enables reports for hours of service, records of duty status and driver vehicle inspection reports. With no pairing process required, the vehicle will continue to record data regardless of the connection status of the mobile unit. Wireless interference will not impact reporting.
Mack Trucks shares a campus in western Greensboro with sister heavy struck maker Volvo Group North America, both owned by Sweden-based Volvo Group.
On Monday, Volvo Group announced it plans to reduce its work force by more than 4,000 workers by the end of the year. A Volvo Group North America spokesperson told TBJ that it will cut 450 positions, including permanent employees and consultants, across its Greensboro campus.
