What Is Telematics?

How a telematics system works

1. Device: a unit in the vehicle with GPS, a SIM card and sensors.
2. Data: it records location, speed, acceleration and, if connected to the CAN bus, engine data.
3. Network: data is sent over GSM or GPRS to a server.
4. Platform: software or an app turns it into maps, alerts and reports.

What telematics is used for

• Theft recovery and live tracking.
• Fleet management: routes, fuel, idling and maintenance.
• Driver behaviour: harsh braking, speeding and cornering.
• Insurance: some insurers reward good driving recorded by telematics.
• Safety: crash detection and panic buttons.

Telematics and insurance

Several South African insurers offer telematics-based products that reward safe driving with lower premiums or cash back. A tracker with driver-behaviour monitoring gives you similar insight into your own driving. See how a tracker can lower your insurance premium.

Choosing a telematics tracker

For a private car, look for live tracking, alerts and driver reports. For a business, look for a fleet dashboard, fuel and maintenance reporting and multi-user access. Compare fleet tracking providers.