Why video telematics the next step in tackling driver distraction
In the world of supercar racing, every second counts and drivers can’t afford any mishaps. It’s more than being the fastest on the track: a pit stop with the wrong tyre or refuelling a microsecond too slow can mean the difference between victory and failure. This urgency and attention to detail is just as important off the track too. Vehicle equipment and crew need to get trackside safely and without delay.
For Triple Eight Race Engineering, the team behind Red Bull Holden Racing Team, this is no easy feat. The eight-time Supercars Championship title holders have been tearing up race tracks since 2003. This year will mark the team’s departure from traditional supercars to its Next-Generation Holden Commodore model and the pressure is on. They need to keep fans happy and ensure the vehicle showcases the best of both Triple Eight and the Red Bull Holden Racing Team.
Triple Eight’s prime movers may not be the stars of the show, but these beasts are essential for getting equipment and crew to be race ready and set for action from the moment they arrive. Which is why the team partnered with Teletrac Navman as its provider and sponsor for all of its GPS fleet tracking requirements for their prime movers.
“It was the natural solution for us. Moving across country we want to know where drivers and their trucks are,” says Tom Wilson, the Commercial Manager for Triple Eight.
The solution helps Triple Eight put its focus on the race, rather than worrying about being late or getting lost on the road.
From Start To Finish
A missing truck packed with all the vehicles, tools & equipment on route is not the kind of showstopper that Triple Eight wants. From the Adelaide 500 to the Perth SuperSprint, supercar racing takes them across the country and beyond throughout the year-long season. But getting everything to the event on time is not as simple as following dots on a map. Many tracks are in isolated, and sometimes rural, areas. Phone reception is unpredictable, so letting everyone know when there’s an issue can be tricky. A delay on the road or breakdown puts stress on everyone, particularly the drivers and pit crew who put in months of tirelessly training for events. Vehicle tracking on the prime movers means even across remote areas, Triple Eight always knows the status of its vehicle.
Trips planning means taking the most efficient route, which not only saves time, but cuts down on fuel. If something does happen, back office is alerted and can find out where the truck is so that event managers and assistance can be contacted. Something as simple as a sensor on a truck makes a huge difference.
No Second Guessing
“This season’s main concerns are how we’ll fair against competitors and how the Next-Generation Holden Commodore will perform well on the track,” says Tom Wilson. So, an unexplained toll fee or worse case, a stolen vehicle, are the last things anyone wants added to the list. GPS fleet tracking means data from the trucks is collected and sent to management instantly. This makes it easy to get insights on long distance trips and compile them into an easy-to-understand report.
The data also means Triple Eight can take an active role in scheduling and execution of transporting vehicles and equipment. Truck operators can better adhere to driving regulations as management can see how long a journey takes and can allow drivers to take the necessary precautions to reduce fatigue.
Being in the dark about the whereabouts of trucks and equipment means peace of mind is difficult. To ensure a clear focus and steady victory Triple Eight understand that technology is a must. Moving away from the traditional supercars will test the team as they aim to change the perceptions of what the new cars are capable of. But with the help of fleet tracking technology, the transition from the road to the racetrack is a seamless one.