Keith Elkington Transport has invested in an integrated Webfleet telematics and video camera system solution and significantly reduce its carbon footprint without going electric.
As a specialist in foodservice equipment transport, the company operates a fleet of eight HGVs and 28-high profile 3.5-tonne Luton box vans, which have to be tall enough to carry large, heavy payloads such as refrigeration units, cooking suites and pizza ovens.
“Operating an environmentally friendly fleet is a top priority for us,” explained Oli Elkington, managing director. “However, due to the heavy payload nature of our business and our nationwide delivery schedule, transitioning to an electric fleet wasn’t a viable option at this time.
“We’ve already invested in new Sprinter chassis cab vans, which weigh 60kg less than our previous models, have a more aerodynamic body, feature the latest Euro 6 engines and use Mercedes Blue Efficiency stop-start technology – but we knew we could do even better.”
Webfleet’s OptiDrive 360 functionality means the company can now monitor driver behaviour, with real-time feedback in the cab helping drivers operate much more efficiently while also enhancing driver safety.
“We can track and address incidents of harsh braking, speeding and harsh cornering as well as idling,” explained Elkington. “Far from feeling watched over, our drivers have welcomed the move and it’s encouraged some healthy competition on who is improving fastest.”
Green speed recommendations, advice on appropriate gear changing and reminders on when to ease off the accelerator when approaching a coasting zone have produced dramatic improvements in driving behaviour and fuel usage.
Integrated in-cab cameras also offer full visibility into critical events to improve driver safety.
“Videos picking up old bad habits, such as texting or eating at the wheel, were automatically triggered by AI in the early days and delivered to our transport manager, but now such incidences are very rare,” said Elkington.
Webfleet’s electronic fob-based Driver ID kits also deliver a simple but effective way for Keith Elkington to keep tabs on which driver is in which vehicle.
Jonny Wiggins of system installer Fleet Trak said the work was an excellent example of how conventional van fleets can still achieve significant carbon reductions without having to go electric.
“With Webfleet now sitting at the heart of their drive to cut carbon emissions, Keith Elkington Transport is anticipating a significant dip in future fuel costs,” he stated.
