The digital tachograph has long been more than just a tool for monitoring driving and rest times. Its tamper-proof and legally compliant data is considered one of the most reliable sources of information in commercial vehicles. With the further development of VDO Fleet, VDO is now specifically opening up this database to partners and third-party providers, thereby laying the groundwork for new digital services in fleet management.
Through open interfaces, fleet management providers, software companies or technology partners can integrate tachograph data directly into their own applications. The data can be used, for example, for dispatching, route planning, time tracking, or billing processes. As a result, the tachograph is increasingly evolving from a legally required monitoring device into a central data source for digital logistics processes.
Open interfaces for more flexibility
As a platform, VDO Fleet provides various interface models for this purpose. Fleets that already use their own telematics solutions can transfer tachograph data to the VDO Fleet Cloud via a standardized interface. There, the data is available for further services, regardless of the existing vehicle or telematics infrastructure.
In another scenario, fleet operators can grant selected third-party providers access to specific tachograph data. These providers then integrate the information into their own applications, such as analytics tools or payroll systems. Control over the data remains with the fleet operator at all times.
Particularly useful for day-to-day fleet operations is the ability to access information such as vehicle location, driver status or remaining driving times in near real time. This allows for more precise and efficient scheduling and route planning.
Real-world example: Collaboration with Samsara
One example of this platform-based approach is the partnership with Samsara. Their Connected Operations® platform uses analytics based on VDO Fleet data and combines various aspects of tachograph compliance into a single integrated solution – from data retrieval and violation analysis to communication with drivers.
A growing ecosystem for fleet services
For fleet operators, the platform-based approach opens up new possibilities: they can utilize additional digital services without fundamentally altering their existing system infrastructure. At the same time, software providers gain access to a Europe-wide, standardized, and legally compliant database.
As a result, VDO Fleet is increasingly evolving into a central platform for data-driven applications in the commercial vehicle sector – with potential for further applications such as automated billing, international compliance processes, or the optimization of supply chains.
