An introduction to Vehicle Tracking

Vehicle Tracking, whilst not new, is certainly a growing technology both in the corporate and consumer world. The small, but powerful, tracking device gives owners the capability of tracking their vehicle or fleet all from their home or office.

The Vehicle Tracking device utilises GPS technology, which in turn uses Satellites that orbit the earth to help pinpoint the exact location of the vehicle at any given transmission. As the devices send regular updates to the satellites it means that the person tracking the vehicle / device can receive real time updates on the progress of the vehicle on its journey.

But why might it be useful to track your vehicle or fleet?

For fleet owners an affordable vehicle tracking device could help to reduce the cost of ownership of their vehicles. For example, the business owner might be able to see unauthorised usage of the vehicle which could mean more expense for fuel and ware and tear to the vehicle. If the vehicle is transporting valuable stock or assets then its important that the recipient and logistics company are able to keep tabs on the vehicle to find out exactly where it is and what its movements are.

Of course, vehicle tracking devices arent just limited to fleets. Even consumers can have them fitted to their cars, motorbikes or even caravans and trailers! GPS Tracking devices are a great way to ensure a swift recovery of a stolen vehicle. Imagine how pleasantly suprised the police might be if you reported your car stolen but could tell them its current location!

The thing to remember with Vehicle tracking devices is that there could be black spots, where a GPS signal might be weak or non existent. This is one of the hazards of GPS tracking on a moving target. However, generally if the device is outdoors in a relatively clutter free zone (i.e. few trees or tall buildings) then there is an extremely good chance that the device will continue to report its location.

Generally the devices will also get their power from the vehicle itself, but may also come installed with a backup battery. As with any electronic device the transmission of the geographic data relies on the device being powered up but as the devices are so small the drain on your car battery will be absolute minimum.

Vehicle Tracking devices sound expensive?

Absolutely not! As the technology has become more and more mainstream in the last few years the vehicle tracking device is becoming more affordable to both businesses and consumers. If you check with your insurance company you might also be able to get a discount off your insurance policy aswell, as you significantly increase the chance of retrieving your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.