CBVC are currently in the testing stage of gathering OEM data directly from clients’ vehicles to galvanise Fleet Management. Michelle George, CBVC’s Commercial Director commented “Early results are startling, and there is no need for any devices to be fitted such as Trackers, reducing costs dramatically”
Connected car technology is increasingly transforming day‑to‑day fleet management by enabling vehicles to automatically share valuable operational data. Rather than relying on drivers to identify issues or waiting for scheduled service intervals, our fleet managers can now access real‑time information directly from the vehicle.
Whilst levels of connectivity and cost vary from manufacturer to manufacturer at a fundamental level, onboard vehicle systems continuously record performance and status data, which is transmitted to our fleet management platform. This provides fleet operators with clear visibility of vehicle condition and usage, enabling earlier intervention and more informed decision‑making.
The most immediate impact is typically seen in maintenance. Early identification of potential faults allows our fleet managers to plan workshop visits before issues escalate into breakdowns. This proactive approach reduces vehicle downtime, minimises disruption to operations, and helps avoid the higher costs associated with reactive repairs and last‑minute vehicle replacements.
Beyond maintenance, connected vehicle data also enhances operational control. With the drivers’ permission, our Fleet teams can monitor vehicle location, activity and condition in near real time, supported by live status updates from the vehicle control unit. On some makes, automated alerts can highlight critical events as they occur, such as low tyre pressures, poor battery condition, indicators that may have been overlooked by drivers, allowing issues to be addressed promptly reducing downtime improving safety.
Cost management is another area where connected data delivers tangible benefits. OEM Telematics, highlights the value of using connected vehicle data to calculate total cost of ownership and assess the financial impact of operational decisions in real time. This level of transparency enables fleet managers to identify inefficiencies, uncover hidden costs and take corrective action with greater confidence and speed.
Connected data is becoming increasingly important for electric vehicle fleets, where availability is closely linked to effective charging and battery management. OEM Telematics describes how live monitoring of battery levels, vehicle status and remaining range can support improved charging strategies, helping fleets protect battery health while maximising vehicle uptime.
A recent example of this capability being delivered at scale is the relationship between Targa Telematics and Volvo Cars, which integrates data streams directly from Volvo vehicles into a telematics platform without the need for additional hardware installation. This approach simplifies access to OEM data and accelerates deployment across fleets.
“Connected vehicles offer a unique opportunity to fundamentally reshape the way fleets are managed,” commented Dimitrios Merkouris, Commercial Manager at Volvo Cars.
“Our collaboration with Targa Telematics allows us to bring Volvo’s hallmark quality, innovation, and values to the commercial fleet sector. We provide immediate access to meaningful data that supports smarter decision-making, improves operational efficiency, and promotes a more personal, sustainable, and safe mobility.”
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