Rand McNally has developed what it calls "a next-generation in-cab EOBR device" that combines navigation with a mobile communication system for US$799. The new TND 760 costs just US$350 more than what drivers are already paying for the existing IntelliRoute TND 710 navigation device. For the extra money fleets can get a full EOBR.

The TND 760, Fleet Edition, integrates into a truck’s on-board computer and sends and receives information via both Wi-Fi and cellular. Designed to be set up in less than 30 minutes, the 760 doesn’t demand the installation of a separate ‘black box’ monitoring unit like traditional mobile communication systems.

In a compact design, the device features a useful array of capabilities including fleet communications via email, driver and vehicle performance monitoring, electronic hours-of-service (HOS) compliance, and truck-specific navigation. Information on fleet activity is managed via Rand McNally’s recently enhanced FleetWatcher web-based portal, which provides a full fleet-management solution, the company says.

The TND 760 is the result of the 10-month business partnership between Rand McNally and DriverTech of Salt Lake City. It’s claimed to provide 90% of the functionality of higher-end mobile communication systems for less than half the price.

Key features of the TND 760 include: 395.15 compliance; automated hours of service; HOS alerts and warnings for drivers; simplified log certification and correction; real-time access to HOS data via the FleetWatcher portal; Wi-Fi and cellular communication; over-the-air programmability; text and form-based messages; text-to-speech e-mail playback and verbal turn-by-turn route guidance; truck-specific routing based on loads and other metrics; detailed mapping and vehicle proximity search; comprehensive fuel- and driver-performance reporting; and visibility to engine diagnostics.

Note that, as with other connected devices, there’s a monthly data plan required.