Jos Dekker:
"Netherlands: "Planners excited about Carcube on-board computer"
"We have purchased them to give our planners more rest, not to monitor or follow the drivers,” stresses manager Jos Dekker. "With this on-board computer, people can see exactly where the trucks are located, where they unload and where they go from there. In addition, we have direct contact with the drivers via GPS; this makes communication with the customers much easier. For example, when a driver is too late, this can be notified in time and difficulties can be avoided. The planner can also intervene when an unexpected job pops up somewhere.”
The system is very user-friendly. The driver logs on with a personal code that also works as an immobilizer: unauthorized access, either to the computer or the truck, is prevented this way. The driver receives his missions on the CarCube. Contact details of the recipient, the route, the destination, all are automatically forwarded. The driver himself can also enter these via touchscreen. Information about which trailer to use or which cargo to take can be linked to a certain mission. The driver has all the data available on the screen of the CarCube, and planners know at any time what the status of a specific task is.
The CarCube features a module keeping track of driving hours. Signals warn the driver if the maximum permitted driving time is approaching. The CarCube even keeps an eye on the cargo. Sensors measure the temperature and an alarm is given when these exceed set perimeters.
"I estimate the CarCube has so far saved us about 7% per truck,” says Dekker. For Vroegop-Windig, sustainability is important. “We are in the process of purchasing hybrid vehicles. These will likely be used for distribution in the city. You probably shouldn’t use them on the highway," he concludes, laughing.