Ctrack has launched an advanced telematics solution to support vehicle sharing initiatives across the UK. The company has developed a sophisticated tracking system that will help electronically and remotely manage the availability, access and usage of cars and vans for this emerging vehicle rental model.

The new solution will use Ctrack telematics units to provide all the necessary data capture and operational control. This can include an effective means of activating and accessing vehicles remotely – using RFID cards or a smartphone app – tracking their whereabouts and capturing journey data for accurate billing. Positioning data will also be able to be shared with mobile-or web-based booking and management tools to help customers identify the location and status of potential vehicle pool locations.

In addition, driver ID technology will allow organisations to effectively verify drivers based on approved lists and the latest member subscriptions, while driver behaviour feedback can be provided in real-time via an in-vehicle device or through a smartphone application. This will ensure peace of mind that cars and vans are being driven responsibly by approved people to achieve all legal and Duty of Care compliance.

 John Wisdom, Managing Director of Ctrack commented: “There is an increasing demand from businesses and consumers for short-term vehicle rental, where occasional use or access to a different vehicle type is temporarily required. However, there are clear difficulties in terms of how best to coordinate the availability, access and usage of such vehicles. We have used our longstanding expertise within the telematics sector to develop a solution that overcomes some of the challenges faced by vehicle sharing schemes and rental businesses.”