How data is used in transition to EVs and what benefits does it offer for efficiency? Two experts of Geotab, Ingo De Schryver and Tamás Halbrucker answered all questions fleet managers are curious about in a Fleet Week webinar.
Fleet managers have too many questions and anxiety during the transition process towards EVs, says De Schryver. Data provides all solutions to overcome obstacles in the EV journey.
Geotab, which processes 15 billion data records daily on its open platform, generates innovative data solutions to help fleets customize their operations. With more than 200 partner solutions, the Geotab marketplace appears as a map to find all telematics information for electrification.
The first step in the EV journey is to come up with a personalized electrification plan by analyzing the data from the fleet. Simulations on various points of data present suitable EV vehicles for the fleet. Additionally, fleet managers can see the cost structure of a possible EV fleet and make TCO calculations including all aspects such as maintenance, rising prices, CO2 reduction and charging infrastructure.
The second stage comes when it is time to deploy the first EV vehicles. From this point on, fleet managers can access various tools to see the range in real-time, driver adaptation, charging cycles and costs in the long run. Being able to see real-time charging statuses and receiving related notifications is just the tip of the iceberg, says Halbrucker.
Telematics tools offer customized electrification for fleets
After an EV is seamlessly integrated into the Geotab system, telematics data is converted into various tools to maximize the efficiency of a fleet. One is the fuel and energy report, in which the battery and fuel consumption of BEV and PHEVs can be traced. As an example, the tool helps a Mercedes-Benz eSprinter to consume only 5 litres of diesel fuel in 100 km. 
EV charging report presents all figures according to different EV models, charging locations and charging times. Fleet managers can set the optimum price range as well as understand how and where the drivers are charging their vehicles. EV charge assurance board on the other hand proactively investigates potential charging issues to avoid vehicle replacement due to lack of energy. Smart charging boosts efficiency by enabling optimizing charging capacity, minimizing costs and avoiding peak times.
As video telematics begins to increase the input from connected vehicles, good data enables fleet managers to operate EV fleets with confidence and provide answers to all of their questions.
Photo of Ingo De Schryver, Business Development Manager EU, Geotab, courtesy of Geotab.