Vertas has cut fleet emissions by 57% and made major cost savings through its technology partnership with Trakm8.
One of the largest integrated facilities management companies in Britain, Vertas manages a diverse fleet of 313 vehicles – including vans, pool cars, mini-buses and coaches – and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and slashing emissions. It’s working to reduce its GHG emissions by 90% by 2050 from a 2021 baseline year, with a near-term target of reducing scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.
Aligning with its sustainability goals, Vertas partnered with Trakm8 to integrate telematics technology into its fleet. The collaboration began with the installation of Trakm8’s Connect 330 plug-in solution across Vertas’ commercial fleet of 298 vehicles, giving real-time data on vehicle and driver performance.
Later this year, Vertas will further upgrade its system to include the RH600 telematics camera, one of the most advanced 4G integrated telematics cameras in the UK. This system combines telematics data with an in-cab camera, helping Vertas to further reduce emissions and improve overall fleet efficiency.
The rollout of Trakm8’s solutions in early 2023 has already led to substantial environmental and financial outcomes by allowing Vertas to optimise fuel usage and reduce carbon emissions.
And through improved management of fuel consumption, maintenance schedules and driver behaviours, Vertas has realised substantial estimated cost savings across several key areas. These include fuel savings of £257,140, vehicle maintenance savings of £47,742, accident repair savings of £37,518, and insurance premium savings of £39,513, bringing the total estimated savings to almost £320k.
The system’s ability to monitor and reduce inefficient driver behaviours, such as idling and harsh braking, has also contributed to these savings. Additionally, by providing proactive maintenance alerts, the telematics system has helped reduce costly vehicle downtime and prevent expensive repairs.
Such operational improvements have directly contributed to a return on investment (ROI) of 185.23%. The total costs for the hardware, software and service charges over a year were £111,577 and with the estimated savings of £318,179, Vertas achieved a ROI of £206,602.
Lee Howes, head of fleet and passenger transport at Vertas, said: “Trakm8’s telematics technology allows us to manage vehicle and driver efficiency, which is essential as we work toward our Net Zero target. Their plug-in solution was perfect for our diverse fleet, with flexibility to upgrade as we continue to innovate.”
Trakm8 said the successful partnership shows how innovative technology can advance both environmental and financial performance.
Joe Heidari, fleet & optimisation sales director at Trakm8, added: “We’re proud to work with Vertas and provide tailored solutions that meet the needs of such a diverse fleet. Our fleet management technology is not only enhancing their service to customers but also driving their sustainability efforts forward.”
