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  • Canadian ELDS - Clock is Ticking to Get on Board

    Both Canada and the U.S. require Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for almost all trucks that transport the $Trillions of goods within Canada and across our shared border. The U.S. mandate began in December 2019 so Canadian cross-border truckers Still deciding which ELD solution is right for you? There’s still time and resources to make that decision easier. Let’s talk about the mandate, why it’s important, and how we can help you get started if you need some help choosing. If you have already selected and deployed your ELD solution for Canada, we’ve got some valuable tips regarding cross-border ELD compliance and the cost/benefits for your ELD solution. Let’s discuss a few high-level topics to help make the transition to ELD implementation and deployment easier. Canadian ELD Mandate in a Nutshell The Canadian ELD requirements do not come with new regulations for driver hours of service (HOS); however, they do automate the capture of records of duty status (RODS) and eliminate the hassle and time spent dealing with paper logbooks (I think we’re all ready for a more efficient process) . The ELD objectives are simple: Enforce HOS in a consistent, verifiable way, something that paper logbooks fell short on Make the roads safer by reducing driver fatigue Enhance the driver’s work-life balance by ensuring HOS compliance is free from pressure to drive unsafe hours without sufficient rest Beginning January 1, 2023, Canada will fully enforce its ELD mandate. Trucks will be required to have a certified ELD device connected to the engine that automatically captures operating parameters along with approximate location information in a form that can be immediately shown/provided to any compliance officer when requested. (There are some categories of trucks that are excluded and the means of “showing” HOS to officers varies. This link is a useful source of those details.) ELDs a Threat?  – Move on, Chicken Little is in the Rear View Mirror When ELDs were initially proposed, there were concerns within the transportation communities regarding the potential threat it presented: privacy concerns, the potential for loss of income, or ELD costs would bankrupt truckers. Fortunately, both Canadian and American truck drivers can see from years of experience with ELD deployment in the U.S. that the “fears of the unknown” have been laid to rest. Demonstrated benefits include: Driver surveys confirm that ELD automated HOS records are way better than the hassle of paper logbooks Automated means to show Record of Duty Service saves inspection time Drivers and fleet managers save considerable administrative time dealing with HOS Good ELD records support higher CSA scores which can improve business opportunities Competition among ELD providers has led to a range of cost-effective solutions Cross-Border ELD Requirements and why they Matter On January 1, 2023, all trucks operating in the U.S. and Canada must utilize an ELD that complies with both countries’ requirements.  The U.S. and Canadian requirements are nearly the same, but there are some differences to be aware of: Canadian ELDs must be certified by a third party (review the list here ). U.S. ELDs are self-certified by the manufacturer; however, certified devices are required (review the list here ). When choosing your ELD solution a few things to verify will make your selection easier: Is the device certified for use where you drive? Does the provider allow seamless operation when crossing the border? If you have an ELD for your U.S. transportation needs, verify that the device and its software version are certified in Canada. Can your ELD tablet support two-way messaging, document storage, or equipment malfunction alerts? Are over-the-air updates supported by your ELD device (as regulations can and do change)? Do you need your ELD application to support tax reporting or driver inspections? Act Soon, but Think Long-Term While ELDS have already replaced the standard paper logbook with an easy-to-use, automated platform; the technology offers substantial opportunities for far greater benefits. Like having a smartphone, you could just use it to make calls and share text messages, but you’d be missing out on the advanced technology within the phone. The same is true for your ELD solution. ELDs have many of the same capabilities as smartphones, making them “Internet of Things” or IoT platforms for your truck. Capabilities like high-speed wireless data connections, GPS location, data storage, security features, imaging and cameras, and more can be leveraged in telematics solutions to save fuel, optimize route management, and enhance dispatch/driver communications when your ELD is integrated into a telematics and fleet management system. (We’ll discuss this more in an upcoming blog.) Conclusion: ELDs are your Friend ELDs may be new to you and your operations, but they are now a mature technology with proven benefits that make a trucker’s life better. As you adopt ELDs to your own driving experience or manage it for a fleet, take the time to understand the value you expect, train users to make adoption go smoothly, and keep your eyes open to opportunities to use your investment in ELDs to make your business even more efficient and profitable. Explore our solutions or contact us today to learn more about how Pedigree Technologies can help you stay compliant as Canada’s ELD mandate goes into full effect January 2023.

  • ELDs – More than a Paper Replacement

    Back in 1976 Florida orange juice growers came up with a clever advertising slogan, “Orange juice, it’s not just for breakfast anymore.”  In the world of trucking your ELD “Is not just a logbook anymore.”  Since U.S. and Canadian ELD mandates require nearly all federally regulated trucks to replace their paper logbooks with Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to automate collection and reporting of Hours of Service (HOS) data, every truck has an intelligent device that can do more than be just a logbook. In this article, we’ll discuss how your ELD can enhance your driving experience, monitor your equipment/data sources and simply put – optimize your overall operations.  An ELD can be Just an Electronic Logbook The ELD logbook replacement makes HOS logging simpler, more accurate, and avoids fines with its automated record keeping – so easy that hardly anyone would welcome going back to paper.  Drivers save time and the hassle of paper logs creating the ease of showing HOS compliance at the “click of a button”.  Inspectors see a consistent format, accurate records, and let’s admit it, a legible record that makes any engagement between drivers and officials faster and more efficient.  The ELD mandate only requires the ELD replace the logbook, but to the possibilities go far beyond just that function. ELD as Much More Your ELD is a smart electronic device that can do much more than simply replace your logbook. With the introduction of tablet or phone into the cab, an ELD system now has significant computer power and communication capabilities.  This means it can monitor many elements or “things” around or in the truck and upload this information to the internet or display it to the driver.  Essentially ELD has transformed a logbook into an “Internet of Things” (IoT) solution for trucking. Here are some examples of how IoT around a truck might be valuable to both the driver and fleet operator.   Sensors Automatically monitor and alert the driver about what’s going on with the load, truck, and trailer by connecting to sensors that can detect liquid fuel load levels, tire pressure (TPMS), hub health, refrigerated load temperature, and more.  ELD software intelligence provides more than just gauges by displaying warnings before problems become failures. Dashcams Capture and transmit out-the-cab video records of incidents such as crashes or dangerous braking to document “at fault” evidence when needed.  ELD can record and transmit incident records to the carrier to help reduce insurance costs and improve driver safety performance. Applications ELDs, especially those built on open systems like Android, can be configured with a variety of applications either standalone or integrated with fleet management systems. Some of these configurable integrations include navigation, rest stop and parking advice, toll by-pass, safety alerts, and electronic paperwork capture and display of work-orders, receipts, and more. Diagnostics and Maintenance An ELD connects to the engine OBD port to capture engine power status, vehicle motion status, miles driven, and engine hours to meet the ELD mandate.  That same connection gives access to vehicle diagnostic fault codes that the ELD can display to the driver and report to the FMS.  Faults like a stuck fuel adjuster, coolant temperature problem, exhaust faults, and more can be monitored and alarmed, if needed, to schedule maintenance to prevent issues from becoming breakdowns.  Think of it as a mechanic riding along under the hood to help ensure the drive train is performing as it should. ELDs, Fleet Management Platforms A Fleet Management System (FMS) manages the information from devices integrated with the ELD as well as devices like telematics/tracking devices by giving an integrated view to the driver and to the dispatcher.   An ELD and its connected system of sensors and applications can operate standalone, but the FMS adds the big picture intelligence to provide dispatchers and operators the information they need to operate most efficiently and safely. Think Ahead Choosing an ELD is not something that you can or should put off.  Canada enforcement of the ELD mandate starts January 1, 2023.  It’s important to consider “future proofing” your ELD by selecting a solution that can expand as your needs change to integrate with sensors and vehicle monitoring devices making a substantial difference in your business success. Final Comments Your ELD is a tool that can do just one task, HOS capture/reporting, or it can be a key piece of a fleet management system.  Keep in mind, you don’t have to jump in with both feet right away.  Choose an ELD that can be part of an open system, delivering value with your initial purchase and increasing its value over time. Our recommendation, take the time to educate yourself on which options are available and choose the best solution that meets your needs.  ELDs, not just for logbooks anymore.

  • Supplementing GPS Trackers with Bluetooth Tags

    Bluetooth tags, also known as beacons, are small, low-power devices that use Bluetooth technology to communicate with other devices. They are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries as a supplement to GPS trackers.  Bluetooth tags are particularly useful for construction companies or any company with a lot of remote assets. One of the biggest advantages of Bluetooth tags is their ability to pinpoint the location of assets at a fraction of the cost of GPS trackers.  They do not require any additional infrastructure or software to function easing the burden of tracking equipment and attachments in yards or job sites.  Another advantage of Bluetooth tags is they can be used to augment data on equipment usage, helping companies to make informed decisions about how to improve their operations. For example, usage data might lead to more accurate customer billing or better maintenance scheduling. Bluetooth tags are also incredibly easy to install and use. They can be attached to assets using industrial tape, adhesive or traditional screws, and the information they collect can be accessed using a smartphone, tablet, or a GPS tracker with built-in Bluetooth. This means that companies can start using Bluetooth tags with minimal setup and training. Finally, Bluetooth tags are much smaller than GPS trackers making them easier to attach to assets and more discreet.  And they typically have a longer battery life than GPS trackers.  For example, a Bluetooth tag as small as the diameter of a quarter can last 5 years. Bluetooth tags are not perfect.  Like the consumer devices used to track keys, they do not have a cellular connection and only work in concert with a phone or another GPS device.  But because they are inexpensive, they can complement a mixed-fleet asset management strategy where it’s important to ensure that all assets are being used efficiently and effectively. Bottom line…Bluetooth tags are better suited for certain asset management applications due to their size, cost, and battery life. Interested in learning more about Pedigree Technologies and our Bluetooth Tag solutions? Contact us today!

  • How Asset Trackers Have Changed for the Better

    Asset tracking used on remote equipment has come a long way in the last five years. With advancements in technology and increased demand, battery-powered asset tracking devices have become more reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at how battery-powered asset tracking has evolved in the last five years and the impact this has had on businesses and individuals. Here Are 6 Ways Asset Trackers Have Changed in the Last 5 Years Increased Battery Life: One of the biggest changes in battery-powered asset tracking over the past five years has been the improvement in battery life. With the development of more efficient power management techniques and the use of low-power components, tracking devices can now operate for longer periods of time on a single battery charge. This has made it possible for businesses to track their assets more effectively and for longer periods of time. Enhanced Data Collection: Advances in technology have also made it possible to collect more data from battery-powered asset tracking devices. With the ability to collect data on factors such as location, temperature, humidity, and motion, businesses can now monitor the performance of their assets more effectively and make more informed decisions about their use and maintenance. Bluetooth: Another big change in asset tracking over the past five years has been the integration of Bluetooth receivers into the devices. Many trackers now can receive and relay Bluetooth sensor data from remote equipment within range. This has led to the development of sophisticated software applications to collect and analyze this data, providing organizations with real-time insights into the performance of their assets and nearby equipment. Improved Connectivity: The widespread availability of low-cost cellular and satellite connectivity has made it easier for businesses to connect asset tracking devices to the internet. This has improved the accuracy and reliability of data collection and has made it possible for businesses to track their assets from anywhere, at any time. Cost Savings: The combination of increased battery life, decreasing prices, and improved connectivity has made battery-powered asset tracking more cost-effective for businesses. By reducing the need for frequent battery replacements and improving the quality and price of data collection, businesses afford to track less expensive equipment. User-Friendly Designs: With the development of smaller and lighter designs, tracking devices are now easier to install and use. Additionally, the rise of mobile applications has made it possible for businesses to monitor their assets from their smartphones and tablets, providing them with real-time insights into the performance of their assets. In conclusion, battery-powered asset tracking has come a long way in the last five years, providing businesses and individuals with more reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly solutions for monitoring their assets. With the continued growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increasing popularity of cloud computing, the technology behind battery-powered asset tracking is sure to continue evolving, providing even more powerful solutions for businesses and individuals. Interested in learning more about Pedigree Technologies and our asset tracking solutions? Contact us today!

  • 5 Top Bluetooth Sensors Optimizing Fleet Data

    Bluetooth technology is revolutionizing the way fleets manage their vehicles. With the help of Bluetooth sensors, trucking operations can monitor their vehicles in real-time, improving efficiency and safety on the road.  With an ELD in the vehicle, the Bluetooth-based alerts can be sent directly to the driver’s tablet. Let’s explore the top Bluetooth sensors used in trucks and trailers. HERE ARE THE 5 TOP BLUETOOTH SENSORS OPTIMIZING FLEET DATA Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensors : TPMS sensors monitor the tire pressure of each tire on a truck or trailer and alert the driver if the pressure falls below a certain level. This helps to prevent tire failure and increase fuel efficiency. Bluetooth TPMS sensors are easy to install and provide real-time monitoring for all the tires. Tire and Wheel Sensors: By tracking the temperature and vibration of wheel hubs on trucks and trailers, machine learning algorithms can detect damaged or low-pressure tires, bearing wear, brake issues, and wheel imbalance. This information can be used to prevent serious accidents before they happen by providing real-time updates to fleet managers and drivers. Trailer Monitoring Sensors: Trailer monitoring sensors provide real-time information about the load on a trailer, including weight, temperature, humidity, and doors. This information can be used to optimize the load and prevent overloading, which can cause damage to the trailer and the load. Fuel Monitoring Sensors : Bluetooth sensors can be a vital part of a fuel monitoring system providing real-time information about the fuel level in a truck or trailer. This information can be used to optimize fuel consumption and reduce waste. Bluetooth fuel monitoring sensors can alert drivers when the fuel level is low or when there is a sudden change in fuel consumption. Driver Fatigue Sensors: Some driver fatigue sensors use Bluetooth to monitor the driver’s biometric data. This data is used to determine if a driver is becoming fatigued, and if so, an alarm can be triggered to alert the driver to take a break. Bluetooth sensors play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and safety of heavy-duty trucks and trailers. They are easy to install, making them cost-effective to deploy and use. With real-time monitoring and alerts, drivers and fleets can make informed decisions that can increase profits, reduce costs, and improve safety on the road. Don’t wait, invest in Bluetooth sensors today and experience the benefits for yourself! Contact us today!

  • Stay Focused, Stay Safe: Observing Distracted Driving Awareness Month

    Understanding the Risks and Consequences of Distracted Driving and How You Can Help Prevent It April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and all drivers, including the trucking industry, must recognize the serious consequences of distracted driving on the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents and fatalities in the trucking industry, and it's crucial that we take steps to address this issue. The first step in preventing driving distractions is education. Drivers must be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and its impact on themselves, their cargo, and other motorists on the road. Training programs should be implemented to educate drivers on the risks of distractions and the steps they can take to avoid it. It's also important for companies to establish strict policies against distracted driving. Companies should make it clear to their drivers that distracted driving will not be tolerated and enforce strict consequences for any violations. This can include suspension, termination, or other disciplinary measures. Technology can also play a role in preventing driving distractions. Many trucking companies are now utilizing telematics systems that monitor driver behavior, including distractions such as cell phone use or eating while driving. These systems can alert the driver and the company if they detect distracted behavior, allowing immediate action. It's important for the trucking industry to recognize the impact of fatigue on distracted driving. Fatigue can impair a driver's ability to stay focused on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Companies should encourage drivers to take breaks and rest when they feel fatigued and implement policies that limit the number of hours drivers can spend on the road. Distracted driving is a serious issue that affects the entire trucking industry. By implementing education and training programs, strict policies, technology, and fatigue management, we can work together to reduce the risks of distracted driving and ensure safer roads for all. Let's make this Distracted Driving Awareness Month the start of a renewed commitment to safety on the road. Are you interested in learning how Pedigree Technologies can help you and your fleet combat distracted driving? Connect with one of our expert team members to discuss our scorecards, camera solutions, in-cab alerts and so much more.

  • Simplify Your Waste Management Processes with Bluetooth Tags

    Waste companies are responsible for managing the collection and disposal of waste from homes, businesses, and other public spaces. To be effective, they need to keep track of hundreds or thousands of waste bins, which can be a complex and time-consuming process. This is where Bluetooth tags come in -- they offer an efficient and cost-effective solution for tracking bins, improving the waste management process in several ways. Provide Accurate Location Bluetooth tags can provide the location data of where each bin was dropped off to enable waste companies to monitor bin locations better. Using Bluetooth tags instead of current manual processes, waste companies can effectively address the logistical challenges of managing bins throughout the waste company’s territory. Prevent Service and Billing Issues Trucks equipped with a telematics device or a tablet that supports Bluetooth will not only automatically record the location of where the bin was dropped but also record the date and time to provide an accurate record of when a service was provided. This empowers waste companies in cases where there are disputes over when a service was performed or when a customer disputes a bill. In addition, if the date and time stamp are linked to a billing system, this data can be used to automate billing processes, reducing the time and effort required to generate invoices. Cost-effective One of the biggest advantages of Bluetooth tags compared to other tracking technologies, such as GPS, is that they are very cost-effective. Not only are they relatively inexpensive to install and maintain, tags require little in the way of additional equipment or infrastructure. Typically, you will find Bluetooth tags priced at about a third of the price of GPS tracking solutions. Small, Easy to Install Devices Finally, Bluetooth tags require less power and use smaller batteries as compared to GPS trackers, making them much smaller. You can now find Bluetooth tags as small as the diameter of a quarter with the ability to last five years! Because they are so small, tags are easier to attach, are more discreet, and won’t protrude beyond bin framing. Bluetooth tags are a valuable tool for waste management companies, allowing them to improve operations, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. By using Bluetooth tags, waste management companies can ensure that their operations are running smoothly and meeting the needs of their customers while improving their operational efficiency. Interested in learning more? Contact us today!

  • Reduce Tire Costs With a Tire Management System

    Fleets Who Focus on Tire Management Can Increase Savings and Improve Overall Performance This year it’s anticipated that fleets will continue to face rising prices and extreme revenue pressures. As a way to combat these pressures, proper tire management is one area that can reduce operational costs. Tires should be viewed as assets, and be managed properly from selection to disposal to maximize their value versus a material simply being bought and used. Fleets should establish a tire management system to track the true cost of each tire and ensure that they get the most value out of their investment. A tire management system should begin with tire selection, considering the vehicle's specific needs, routes, and the climate. Selecting a tire specific to the application will enhance efficiency and profitability. Tire dealers can be a great resource for fleets to ensure that they are getting the best for their dollar. Another important way to improve your investment is by using tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) which, thanks to the introduction of Bluetooth technology, have become more accessible and affordable to incorporate. With this new TPMS technology, gone are the days of complex and time-consuming installations.  Now sensors can simply be screwed on to the stem valves and can connect to the cloud via an ELD or other tracking device. Inflation pressure is always the most important factor of tire maintenance relative to tire costs. Correct inflation will help to maximize the ability to retread a tire while minimizing wear and the tire’s contribution to fuel economy rolling resistance. According to the FMCSA, only 46% of heavy commercial vehicle tires are inflated within five psi of target pressure and only 38% of trailer tires.* A TPMS will eliminate the 10–20-minute manual tire pressure check, reduce wear and tear, and help prevent tire blowouts and other tire-related accidents. By constantly monitoring tire pressure and alerting drivers to any issues, it also reduces the costs associated with tire damage and downtime. Tire expenses will always be a way of life for fleet managers. Therefore, it only makes sense to establish procedures designed to control them. A good tire maintenance program, incorporating management strategies and TPMS technology, will enhance tire efficiency and profitability. Fleets can increase savings and improve overall performance by focusing on tire management. Contact Pedigree Technologies to get started on your own tire management system. *(FMCSA – 2002 study, cited by NACFE 2020)

  • Upcoming CVSA Roadcheck 2023 to Focus on ABS and Cargo Securement

    Helpful Tips on Brake Safety and Cargo Securement to Help Prepare You for CVSA Roadcheck The CVSA Roadcheck is an annual three-day event conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) in which law enforcement agencies across North America conduct intensive inspections of commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, to promote safety in the commercial motor vehicle industry. This year the roadcheck is scheduled to take place from May 16-18 and will focus on ABS braking systems and cargo securement. Last year brake systems accounted for 25%, and cargo securement accounted for 11%, of out-of-service violations. Want to pass your inspections? Here are some tips to keep your fleet in safe working order. Brakes Drivers: By performing a pre-trip inspection, drivers can visually inspect the brake system for pressure loss from air leaks and chafed air hoses. The driver should also listen for any unusual sounds when applying the brakes. Technicians: A trained technician can inspect the brake components visually to look for signs of wear or damage. Inspection can include checking the brake pads or shoes, drums or rotors, calipers or wheel cylinders, brake lines, and other components. Electronic Monitoring: Many modern heavy-duty trucks come equipped with electronic brake monitoring systems, which can provide real-time data on the condition of the brakes. New after-market solutions using Bluetooth sensors that tie into ELD tablets, warn drivers of brake, tire, and hub line pressure issues before they become more serious and costly to repair. Cargo Securement Use the Right Equipment: Use appropriate tie-downs, straps, chains, and other equipment that meet or exceed the weight and size requirements of the transported cargo. See FMCSA guidelines. Distribute Weight Evenly: Ensure that the weight of the cargo is evenly distributed and centered over the axles to maintain stability and prevent shifting during transit. Secure Heavy Items First: Secure heavy items first and then work towards lighter items. This can help ensure that the heavy items are secure and not shifting during transit. Know the Regulations: Understand the federal, state, and local regulations regarding cargo securement. For permitted loads, ensure your driver has access to the correct permits via paper or a digital library. Use Blocking and Bracing: Use blocking and bracing materials to prevent cargo from shifting or tipping during transit. Materials such as wood blocks or dunnage can be used to fill gaps and provide additional support. Check Frequently: Inspections are required ( FMCSA §392.9 ) within the first 50 miles after loading and then every 150 miles, 3 hours, or at a duty change, whichever comes first. Check Before You Go: Check all tie-downs, straps, chains, anchor points, and other equipment for wear, damage, and proper tension before starting a trip. Secure Cargo from All Sides: Use multiple tie-downs and straps to secure cargo from all sides, including the front, back, and sides of the cargo. Roadcheck helps the CVSA to identify safety trends and areas for improvement in the industry. The data collected during the event is used to develop safety programs and initiatives to address safety concerns and reduce the number of crashes involving commercial vehicles. To be further prepared for this event, you can find detailed brake and cargo securement safety guides from CSVA. Contact Pedigree Technologies to learn more about our fleet safety and management solutions today!

  • Revolutionizing Trucking Safety with Dash Cams

    The trucking industry is no stranger to safety concerns, as the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them particularly susceptible to accidents on the road. However, with the emergence of advanced technology, such as dash cams, the industry is rapidly transforming to become safer for both drivers and other motorists. As a result, dash cams are quickly becoming a staple in the trucking industry, providing valuable benefits such as improving driver behavior, reducing accident rates, and protecting against fraudulent claims. Let’s explore the many benefits of dash cams and why they are becoming an essential tool for trucking companies around the world. Dash cams are becoming increasingly important in the trucking industry due to their ability to improve driver safety, prevent accidents, comply with regulations, improve efficiency, and provide training and coaching. As technology advances, dash cams are likely to become even more important in the trucking industry. Do you currently have a dash cam solution in your fleet? Interested in learning more about our dash cams and how they can be a valuable asset to your fleet operations? Connect with us to learn how Pedigree Technologies can support you and your fleet safety.

  • Simple Bluetooth Technology Solving TPMS Complexity

    Tire Pressure Can Have a Significant Impact on the Financial Health and Safety of Your Fleet Properly inflated tires are essential for vehicle safety. Monitoring tire pressure allows fleet managers to ensure that all tires are within the recommended pressure range. Underinflated tires can lead to reduced traction, longer stopping distances, and an increased risk of skidding or hydroplaning. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, can result in reduced stability, uneven tire wear, and potential blowouts. By monitoring tire pressure, fleet managers can proactively address any deviations, minimizing the risk of accidents and promoting safer driving conditions. Tire inflation problems are all too common. The CVSA reports that tire related violations accounted for 18.5% of all out of service violations found during its 2022 International Roadcheck. The NACFE cites one study that claims over 50% of heavy commercial vehicles tires are not inflated within 5 psi of target pressure. Take a look at these other eye-popping stats: Is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System the Answer? A TPMS (Tire Pressure Management System) solution is designed to address the challenges above by ensuring proper tire inflation to avoid costly violations and potentially save thousands of dollars in fuel costs each year. A TPMS also has the ability to inform drivers of inflation issues before tires blow out or exhibit other safety issues, which can help to prevent accidents and reduce downtime. New Bluetooth Technology Changing the TPMS Game New technology is addressing the TPMS installation complexity and costs. With the introduction of Bluetooth valve stem sensors, a technical installation is replaced by a simple setup routine: Screw on the sensors Pair with the tire These tire pressure sensors communicate their data via Bluetooth to a nearby gateway and sent to the cloud and ELD tablet. When integrated with ELD, the tablet will display real-time tire pressure for each tire and will alert drivers if the pressure exceeds a certain limit. The driver can use the TPMS data to identify and address serious tire problems before they happen. By providing real-time monitoring of tire pressure and temperature, TPMS is an essential tool for heavy duty truck operators who want to ensure the safety, performance, and efficiency of their fleet. With the arrival of new Bluetooth based TPMS technology, implementation is simplified, and costs are reduced bringing about an even faster payback on this investment. Are you ready to learn more about how TPMS can help your fleet operations? Reach out to our knowledgeable sales team for more information.

  • Drivewyze Safety+: Proactive Driver Alerts Welcome in a New Era in Safety

    In a world where technology is ever changing, Pedigree Technologies and Drivewyze are making the job of driving a little bit easier, a little bit safer, and a little less stressful.  And it’s giving fleet and safety managers vital information to help drivers on all fronts. It’s called Drivewyze Safety+ -- the industry’s first proactive driver safety management platform. Unlike dash cams and telematics-based safety systems, which report on driver behavior after the fact, Drivewyze Safety+ helps prevent the behavior from happening in the first place. It’s a breakthrough in driver behavior modification. Drivewyze Safety+ builds off Drivewyze’s popular Safety Notifications and is embedded in your Pedigree Technologies ELD for easy activation -- no extra hardware required! It gives drivers safety alerts prior to an upcoming danger area and even lets a fleet set their own custom location-based alerts. Creating a custom alert is easy, and once you do it’ll automatically display to drivers when they reach that location - be it a low bridge, risky curve, or your own yard. It’s an entirely new way of thinking and managing drivers when it comes to safety. It can help prevent speeding infractions by warning a driver on an upcoming ‘high infraction zone,’ provide an alert for an upcoming high rollover corner, even help with safety alerts down mountain passes. And, at the end of the day, Drivewyze Safety+ even lets your drivers know the number of parking spaces available at an upcoming rest area in select states. This quick demo takes you inside the platform to show you how it works: We’ve identified ‘speed violation zones’ based on cumulative citation history. Safety+ gives drivers that are driving too fast in known high citation areas an alert to slow down – averting a possible speeding ticket, or worse yet, an accident. Need to park for the night? Drivewyze Safety+ helps drivers by providing dynamic parking alerts in select states. In-cab messaging gives the actual number of parking spots available, in real-time, so drivers can make the decision to continue on to the rest area, or look for other alternative parking. But, best of all, fleets can develop their own custom zones. Have a certain area that you don’t want drivers entering, or known areas that have caused accidents, fender-benders, or speeding tickets within your fleet? Want to remind drivers about driving restrictions when entering yards?  Simply tag each area by GPS location in the easy-to-use Drivewyze Hub and your alerts will display to drivers when they reach your set location.  You have complete control over in-cab driver messaging. Safety+ also includes other alerts that Drivewyze pioneered, like high rollover, low bridges, and mountain corridors (giving notifications to use low gears, check brakes…while also providing alerts on upcoming runaway ramps). The beauty of Drivewyze Safety+ is it generates data-rich information that can be mined and put to use to further your safety program. You can drill down to see how a particular driver is reacting to the safety notifications, plus review the aggregate – seeing how your entire driver pool is complying. It can serve as a great proactive driver coaching platform, further supporting programs that are already in place. Are your drivers slowing down when alerts come on? How is that trending? Who are your best performers? Who needs some coaching? All this data and more is readily available within your fleet dashboard on the Drivewyze Hub. Information from Safety+ can merge into other programs you might have thanks to our full set of reporting APIs for data integration. Combined, this data shows you are taking the steps needed to make your drivers safer -- something insurance agencies and the courts scrutinize. Insurance providers always look to insure companies that are proactive in safety. And, if there is litigation against your company for an incident, the best protection is to have a documented program that shows you are giving your drivers the tools to be safe on the road. Don’t be held liable; avoid nuclear verdicts. And, yes, the alerts are proven to modify behavior. With our proactive speed alerts, we are seeing a 27% reduction in speeding events (for those truckers going at least 5 mph over the speed limit). Our rollover data is also compelling. In a two-year study with a major trucking company involving thousands of trucks, alerts for high rollover curves resulted in speeds being reduced by 17%.  That’s important. Data shows that the top speeders in rollover zones are 400% more likely to be in an accident than their peers. The name of the game in trucking is being safe -- for your driver, and the motoring public. Proactive safety alerts from Drivewyze give your drivers a quick reminder that a danger zone is coming up….or that a safe place to park is nearing and there are spots available. There is an old saying that knowledge is power. And, with Drivewyze Safety+ you now have the power to make your drivers safer. Getting started is easy and risk free. Book a demo with one of our experienced team Pedigree Technology team members to see the platform for yourself and explore how OneView and Safety+ can make a difference for your fleet, then we’ll get you started with a 30-day free trial of the service. Click here  to learn more and book a demo.

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