Descartes Systems Group has introduced new artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to its Global Logistics Network, with the introduction of the Descartes Fleet Data Intelligence platform, designed to help operators improve delivery processes and reduce costs.

The platform uses AI and machine learning to analyze large volumes of real-world execution data, aiming to enhance on-time delivery, strengthen service compliance and lower cost per delivery while providing the visibility needed to measure, sustain and scale fleet performance improvements over time, according to a news release.

At the centre of the platform is René, an AI agent that allows fleet managers, dispatchers and planners to query operational data in real time without requiring specialized analytics tools. For day-to-day fleet performance, René enables planners, dispatchers and operations leaders to quickly investigate issues, test hypotheses and get immediate answers simply by asking questions, such as why routes ran faster in a given period, what is driving overtime or where service levels are at risk. The company claims René can also identify longer-term trends and root causes of inefficiencies across operations.

Descartes also says the platform’s ML capabilities can increase route density by up to 30% in early deployments, enabling fleets to complete more stops without adding vehicles or drivers. The system also generates more accurate service time predictions by analyzing variables such as customer type, product characteristics, delivery volume, vehicle type, charging stop locations and geography. 

“For fleets operating private or dedicated distribution networks, the highest-impact opportunity for AI lies in improving real-world execution,” said James Wee, general manager of fleet management at Descartes. “With the Fleet Data Intelligence platform, we apply AI to the trusted execution data flowing through the GLN to separate signal from noise and turn everyday fleet operations into a continuous source of learning and improvement.”

“For organizations operating high-density, repeat-route delivery models– such as foodservice, beverage distribution and wholesale logistics — even small improvements in fleet performance can deliver significant financial impact,” added Ken Wood, Descartes’ executive vice president of product management. “The ability to leverage trusted, real-world operational data from the GLN allows fleets to apply AI at scale to continuously improve execution using the data they generate every day to drive measurable performance gains.”