Driving forward

The transformative potential of smart tracking and telematics in the region's road safety

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By Anam Khan

Published: Mon 8 Jul 2024, 9:11 AM

In an era where road safety is paramount, integrating advanced telematics and GPS tracking systems has emerged as a game-changer. These technologies are enhancing driver safety, promoting responsible driving behaviour, and revolutionising risk assessment and asset integrity management across the UAE.

A recently published report by the Ministry of Interior disclosed a concerning three per cent rise in vehicular accidents on UAE roads. While fatalities from these crashes are on a downward trend, officials remain alarmed by the increase in accidents. Data shows that 15 per cent of these incidents involve newer and younger motorists, with 57 per cent attributable to poor driving habits.

To ensure a safer, smarter commute in the envisioned smart cities that we are building, it is thus imperative to enhance the efficiency of:

* Data-driven driver behaviour analysis

* Real-time asset and vehicle tracking to ensure operator and equipment integrity.

* Incident data reporting and analysis to develop better safety features and precautionary measures.

The evolution of automotive technology

Road safety remains a critical concern in the UAE, where increasing traffic and diverse driving conditions pose significant risks. Today's systems are equipped with sensors and communication modules that provide extensive data on activities such as driving behaviour and fuel consumption. These smart tracking devices serve as proactive tools for monitoring driving behaviour and promoting safer practices. By analysing such data, these systems can detect aggressive driving habits like harsh acceleration, braking, or cornering.

In the UAE, where speeding and reckless driving significantly threaten road safety, this proactive approach can reduce road fatalities and injuries. "We are committed to leveraging telematics and tracking to enhance road safety through real-time data, reducing the reliance on physical cameras and radars with nearly complete 24/7 coverage," states Anand Nair, director, connectivity & products and health & nutrition, Arabian Peninsula with SGS Gulf Limited, who has emerged as a key player in this industry providing, diverse range of telematics and tracking services designed to enhance driver and vehicle safety.

Anand Nair - Director - Arabian Peninsula (Connectivity & Products and Health & Nutrition) at SGS

Beyond basic tracking

The integration of telematics technology in vehicles ensures not only driver safety but also provides fleet managers and transportation authorities with valuable insights into vehicle performance and operational efficiency. Although not new, the application of smart tracking systems significantly broadens the scope of these services.

Modern devices monitor factors such as fuel consumption, engine health, and maintenance schedules. This information helps optimise fleet management strategies, minimise downtime, and extend vehicle lifespans. Real-time data allows fleet managers to address issues promptly, ensuring vehicles are used correctly, reducing maintenance costs, and improving safety by promoting responsible driving behaviour among employees.

Enhancing asset tracking and risk assessment

The current tracking systems utilised in vehicles also provide essential data on asset tracking that is crucial for recovering lost or stolen vehicles. Real-time monitoring and tracking capabilities enable vehicle owners and authorities to pinpoint the exact location of a stolen vehicle with remarkable precision.

The rise of smart technology

The integration of smart tracking devices represents a significant step towards improving road safety and transforming the future of transportation in the UAE. By leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower drivers, emergency responders, and fleet operators, telematics and GPS systems can mitigate risks, save lives, and enhance the driving experience.

The rise of smart technology in transportation marks a transformative era for road safety in the UAE. By integrating these advanced systems, the nation can address critical issues related to driver safety, road safety, risk assessment, vehicle tracking, driving behaviour, asset tracking, and asset integrity, paving the way for a safer and more efficient transportation future.

"One of our aims with deploying telematics devices in vehicles is to elevate asset tracking and management efficiency. More importantly, however, it is to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers by constantly monitoring engine dynamics."

Anam Khan

Published: Mon 8 Jul 2024, 9:11 AM