In an effort to be the greenest city possible, Napa, CA, will install the Networkfleet wireless fleet management systems on its vehicles. The installation is being paid for by a grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
“Before using Networkfleet, one of our vehicles could go out of compliance the day after a smog check and we might not know it,” said Chris Burgeson, fleet manager. “Now I am notified by e-mail and can fix it right away. This ensures we have no polluting vehicles on the road. We will also be able to use Networkfleet to improve routing efficiency for our fleet. For example, when we have a water problem, we can immediately identify which crew is closest to the location and dispatch them.”
Networkfleet combines GPS location tracking and diagnostic monitoring through a vehicle’s on-board computer. The system performs EPA-mandated emissions control checks every four hours and notifies fleet managers of problems immediately. It also records excess idling time and poor driving habits, the company said.
The city will install the system on all light-duty city vehicles, including those used by police, fire, water, roadway and community resources departments.
“Networkfleet’s continuous emissions monitoring, combined with the system’s ability to reduce fuel usage, lower idle time, reduce speed and miles traveled, is having a significant impact on reducing harmful greenhouse gases,” said Keith Schneider, president of Networkfleet. “We are proud to work with the City of Napa to help them achieve their goal to lower emissions and improve air quality.”
