The in-vehicle LeasePlan Telematics system is powered by RAC to provide driver data that can be used to improve fleet safety, reduce fuel spend and help companies fulfil Duty of Care obligations.

Recent trials with a LeasePlan client showed savings of almost £20 per vehicle per month on fuel and a reduction in inaccurate mileage claims while CO₂ output also dropped as a result. In addition to this, one Scottish Housing Association, which operates vehicles in some of the most remote regions of the British Isles, said the telematics device allows them to easily track their drivers, locate their vehicles and send assistance if needed.

Four options packages will provide information on mileage, location and accurate expense reporting and can be tailored in line with customer requirements:

• Essentials – Fundamental mileage and expenses data, keeping you up to date and compliant
• Driver – Adds driver care and performance on top of core reports for a safer, lower-risk fleet
• Perform – Uncovers the causes of your toughest service and cost issues to save you money
• Optimise – Shows how the hardest-working fleets work to improve customer experience

As well as providing information on driver behaviour, the system also includes an in-car navigation function with location-based traffic updates, allowing drivers to effectively plan their route and avoid congestion.

HMRC-compliant mileage reports will be produced as standard, reducing the administrative burden associated with mileage claims. In addition, the product can be installed into new vehicles or retrofitted by a LeasePlan engineer or local dealer.

David Brennan, managing director, LeasePlan UK, said: ‘Telematics is a growing force in efficient fleet management and LeasePlan is delighted to offer this innovative equipment across our passenger fleets, as well as for commercial vehicle customers.

‘LeasePlan Telematics delivers information that our customers have been requesting. This process is critical as it provides a deeper level of insight into driver behaviour and how a business operates, ultimately resulting in more efficient and safer fleets. We’re really excited about this new product and are confident that our customers will derive huge benefits from it.’

Kerry Michael, commercial director, RAC, added: ‘The RAC leads the market in advanced telematics technology. Our innovative product offers sophisticated functionality giving significant benefits and potential cost savings for fleet operators.

‘We are pleased to be working with LeasePlan to help develop tailored solutions to meet the needs of their clients.’