LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Zonar Systems introduced Zonar Connect, a next-generation tablet that is electronic logging device ready with a software platform that allows fleets to customize and upgrade based on individual needs and growth.

“We’re going to enable the fleets that use these devices to devise how they want to use them,” said Larry Jordan, vice-president of product management for Zonar, adding the fact that the device is always connected, fast and responsive is important to drivers. “Drivers always want to complete their transactions immediately.”

Brett Brinton, Zonar CEO, said the company lives and dies by its customers, and compared Zonar to other technology companies like Google.

“The Connect platform really is the next generation,” Brinton said during the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas Oct. 1. “We’re putting the power back in the hands of the fleet owners.”

“We’re pushing the envelop to make the jobs of our shippers more efficient and safer,” added Jordan, saying the device is always connected by LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth an other means.

With projections of the US economy expected to double or triple by 2050 and infrastructure unable to maintain the same pace, Brinton said everything must be done to help make the jobs of shippers easier, safer and more efficient.

“Just as smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, you soon won’t be able to run your fleet operations efficiently without a smart fleet technology like Connect,” said Brinton. “Connect will help operators manage their fleets more effectively as technology changes with hardware that supports over-the-air updates to give them greater flexibility and scalability to grow.”

Jordan said the rugged device was designed specifically for the rigors of the trucking environment, and is durable for both drivers and others, like enforcement, to handle.

Key features on Zonar Connect include a quad-core processor with 2GB of built-in memory and 32GB of storage, automatic on-board recording device and hours of service regulations compliant and scalable Android platform.

“Zonar Connect tablet and platform represent an extremely compelling offer for fleet managers across a variety of industry verticals,” said Clem Driscoll, president of consulting and research firm C.J. Driscoll & Associates. “It’s a very rugged, state-of-the-art piece of hardware connected to a software ecosystem that offers new flexibility for customers to add third-party apps and upgrade easily as technology advances. It’s clear that Zonar listened to customers and upgraded an already-compelling product based on what they learned.”

Connect also works with Virtual Technician, an integrated remote diagnostic system for Freightliner and Western Star trucks, and Zonar’s Ground Traffic Control web portal.

Zonar’s 2020 telematics mobile tablet will remain on the market, but be offered at a lower price point.