What does vehicle security mean to you? Additional locks to prevent theft of and from the vehicle? Electronic anti-theft devices? Vehicle monitoring and tracking? John Kendall takes a look at some of the latest products and systems available.
Renault Trucks has recently introduced a reinforced Trafic van. The company says that, to safeguard tools and other items from theft, the Trafic can now be specified with a Cat 1 alarm, fully lined interior and floor, internal security system and fully sealed steel mesh internal door system with an internal five-point locking mechanism fitted to rear and side, with apertures finished off with an external high impact clear Perspex covering. The security system is available now on the new Renault Trucks Trafic L1H1, L2H1, and L2H2 Red EDITION and EXCLUSIVE models.
The equipment effectively provides a tool safe, which is flush-mounted into the vehicle, reducing internal space by only 30mm and weighing just 105kg. The system is produced exclusively for Renault Trucks by PD Stevens & Sons in Market Drayton. It can also be colour-coded to match vehicle paintwork.
Fleet security encompasses more than just monitoring physical asset location, says Rachael Plant of Fleetio. Integrated management solutions, such as Fleetio can help fleets improve security and monitor related data to ensure a reduction in possible breaches. Fleetio integrates with telematics solutions to consolidate data around vehicle location, utilisation, ignition on/off positions and odometer readings – and aggregates that data into easy-to-analyse reports. Fleets can use these reports to track and monitor such suspicious activities as: geofence infractions; unauthorised use; discrepancies in estimated versus actual utilisation per day/job; and theft.
Additionally, creating a means of accountability can significantly reduce asset theft and misuse and ensure drivers are taking proper precautions when operating a company van. Fleetio provides an asset assignment feature allowing users (or just managers, depending on the permissions set) to assign themselves to the asset they’re using that day.
CYBERSECURITY
As the number of connected fleet vehicles rises, it’s important to consider the cybersecurity risks they pose. Individuals can gain unauthorised access to a van through its MP3 parser, Bluetooth stack, Wi-Fi network and by using a USB with a malicious software update.
By monitoring van locations, assignments and usage in Fleetio and educating drivers on threats to look for — unknown devices connected to the OBD port, spliced wiring, or tampering with the dashboard — fleets can get a better handle on the overall security of their assets.
Motormax designs and manufactures a range of aftermarket safety and security products. The company’s Live DVR camera provides vehicle security, for example for cash in transit vehicles. Along with a forward-facing AHD camera, further cameras can be installed to the nearside, offside and rear. These cameras feature a wide lens, which delivers an extended view to capture potential security risks around the vehicle. The eight-channel live DVR also provides geo-fencing, meaning that when the vehicle enters a predetermined geographical area that is classed as high-risk, operators are alerted so the vehicle can be continually monitored remotely for increased levels of security. Internal dome cameras can also be installed for additional security monitoring.
The Handsfree Group has worked for many years with DPD, providing its Datalive Fleet Management Tools system to the company. The system incorporates an extensive app and configurable I.T solution. It includes defect reporting, vehicle check, fleet check, depot audits and much more.
Datalive also comprises a full telematics suite including Tracking, Driver Behaviour, Trips & Stops, Geofence and Fuel Consumption. The system also offers live CCTV with accident recording, alerts and triggers. The software also has DVSA Earned Recognition status.
