New technology will let administrators track state-owned vehicles every minute of the day and even alert drivers if they are speeding or facing a mechanical breakdown.
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The state Department of Central Services is in the process of hooking up diagnostic devices on 1,100 vehicles the agency leases to various state agencies. The department also is offering to provide the service, for a monthly fee, to thousands of other vehicles owned by agencies.
Under the Automatic Vehicle Location system, agencies can get data on vehicle locations, potential engine problems, odometer readings, engine idle times, gas mileage and other things.
"If you are in a state vehicle and speed, it will track how many times you hit your brakes,” said Gerry Smedley, Central Services spokeswoman.
The main purpose of the Web-based system, however, is to save the state money by catching mechanical problems before they lead to costly repairs and by increasing the efficient use of state vehicles, said Clay Chandler, state fleet manager.
One added benefit is increased safety for state workers, who will have 24-hour roadside help if they run out of fuel, have a flat tire or need to be towed.
Another plus will be a reduction in vehicle emissions that are environmentally harmful, Chandler said.
The Department of Central Services is paying Atlanta-based Hughes Telematics Inc. $875 per unit for the first year the system is in place in state government. The cost drops to $360 per unit for the second and subsequent years.
Chandler said an analysis of vehicles in the state fleet indicates the cost of the units will be recovered in 106 days through lower maintenance expenses and increased efficiencies.
"It’ll certainly cut down on any stops at the casinos,” quipped one state worker who took part in a demonstration of the equipment and asked not to be quoted by name.
Chandler said the system employs strong security measures, and agencies will be in charge of deciding who can view the information.
"We’ve gone to great lengths to make sure that information is properly safeguarded,” he said.
Officials said the system has been installed for about 200 vehicles in the Central Services fleet and should be on all 1,100 in about 60 days.
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I still think it would merit taking a look at just which political campaigns and/or lobbying firms to which Hughes Telematics Inc has contributed to or hired in order to sell this to the State.
Michael, you ae correct about the tracking system is to monitor employees, which is a good idea.. Just as any good employer will from time to time look over your shoulder to monitor your efficiency. It’s just good business. As a taxpayer, I am glad someone is trying to make government more efficient. and save my taxes.
Another Big Brother system implemented. Who are they trying to kid with this system? It's on the vehicles to monitor and spy on employees. Heaven help the person that has to go to the restroom and deviates from the expected route they are taking. I can safely predict many firings and subsequent wrongful termination lawsuits. What next? Leg bracelets for all State employees?
Another Big Brother system implemented. Who are they trying to kid with this system? It's on the vehicles to monitor and spy on employees. Heaven help the person that has to go to the restroom and deviates from the expected route they are taking. I can safely predict many firings and subsequent wrongful termination lawsuits. What next? Leg bracelets for all State employees?
Hopefully, it will keep those state employees, who are driving state vehicles, from zooming past me on the Turner Turnpike when I am driving the speed limit and they are speeding at 85 mph. It's dangerous for them and others and causes excess wear and tear on the vehicle.
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