In fact, vehicle operators are achieving a range of measurable cost efficiencies using tracking systems including average reductions  of fuel usage by 8.6% overtime claims by 15.3% and communications overheads by 13.3%.

The survey, conducted amongst 250 fleet decision makers and influencers within the UK, found that there is considerably greater use of vehicle tracking for vans (82% of those respondents utilise the technology), and to a lesser extent heavy goods vehicles (53%), than cars (34%). Elsewhere, there still remains a low level of uptake for unpowered assets such as trailers (4%) and plant (7%).

When asked about the primary purpose for vehicle tracking more than a third of the respondents using the technology stated productivity was the main reason, whilst cost reduction, asset management and customer service made up almost half of the answers. However, it seems that fleets are achieving multiple benefits from their tracking system including reduced costs (70%); increased productivity (59%); added understanding of driver behaviour (47%); increased security (46%); improved customer service (43%); proof of delivery or completion of work (43%); enhanced workflow management (42%); and improved duty of care (33%).

The findings also suggest that advances in the functionality of web-based tools combined with the affordability of this type of system, when compared to server-based solutions, has meant that they now account for more than half of all active tracking systems. A further 25% of tracking solutions now use a combination of server-and web-based systems, often to achieve added flexibility and support multi-user requirements.

Meanwhile, it seems that fleet operators are increasingly combining their tracking solutions with in-vehicle tools to maximise the operational performance of the system. In particular, integrated satellite navigation is now used in 53% of all tracking systems to support improved routing, reduced mileage and enhanced workflow, whilst Driver Identification (24%), handheld PDAs or terminals (7%) and panic alarms (7%) are also being utilised to a lesser extent. In addition, many companies are integrating their vehicle tracking with other back office management systems in order to streamline their operations and automate internal processes such as fleet (37%), workflow (33%) and routing and scheduling (37%).

Stephen Rapicano, managing director at Ctrack, said: ‘Fuel costs and pressures to reduce operational overheads are currently the key challenges for a large number of fleet operators, with many now using vehicle tracking to help overcome these issues. This year’s Vehicle Tracking Survey shows that businesses can achieve measurable benefits in terms of fleet performance, service and legislative compliance.’