FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.– International yesterday launched its new telematics solution at the ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Conference.

The technology should be widely available by July, say company officials.

International telematics combines remote vehicle monitoring, performance diagnostics and security elements into a single productivity tool that is designed and validated to OEM specifications.

"As the first OEM to provide real-time comprehensive, integrated operating information, our new telematics solution lifts the blindfold on productivity and performance management for entire fleets," said Jeff Bannister, director, Truck Electronics, International Truck and Engine Corporation. "It’s as if the fleet manager or technician is able to be with every truck in person, with full diagnostic capability."

Part of a $15 billion growth strategy, the new technology from International builds on the foundation established with the company’s Diamond Logic electrical system, which includes multiplexed wiring, advanced diagnostics, truck-body integration software, and auxiliary power sources. International telematics is designed to fully integrate with customers currently using the Diamond Logic electrical system, yet also is adaptable to all makes and models in all vehicle classes.

"Fleet owners, managers and technicians lose control over some of their most important assets when their trucks leave the lot and go to work each day," added International’s Bannister. "In most cases, our customers want to know everything about the performance and productivity of these vehicles. International telematics offers a way for our customers to track location, monitor performance, diagnose maintenance issues, and ensure driver and vehicle security by taking advantage of wireless telemetry."

Like an electronic umbilical cord, International telematics moves wireless data from each vehicle into the office or workstation of fleet and maintenance managers. An in-vehicle device transmits telemetry and location information via cellular wireless technology.

International telematics software then organizes and packages the information, displaying it through a secure Website that provides real-time data reporting and administration on each vehicle in customers’ fleets.
IBM was a key technology provider and consultant for International telematics, providing back-end hardware and software and developing the Web site for the product.

"IBM and International’s collaboration in this project sets a new pace for telematics in the commercial vehicle market," said Jim Ruthven, Program director, IBM Automotive and Telematics Solutions. "Working with IBM, International has developed a Web portal that integrates wirelessly transmitted data and its back-end IT systems for International’s customers. The result is unprecedented, allowing International to offer fleet managers breakthrough technologies and services to more efficiently manage assets, reduce operating costs and streamline business processes.”

Additional information is available at www.InternationalDelivers.com.