NASHVILLE. As part of an update for its PowerVue hosted fleet management system, Cadec Global will offer what it calls "the first software-based remote-engine shutdown technology for truck and motor coach fleets." Introduced at the National Private Truck Council annual conference here, the shutdown option is the first application in the company’s new ProTech safety modules.
The remote shutdown can be requested by a driver using a hidden "panic" button or initiated by a fleet manager or dispatcher alerted by PowerVue to unauthorized moves or vehicles departing from assigned routes.
Once the shutdown request is processed using PowerVue’s web-based interface, an authorized security team will begin a controlled shutdown, first powering down the engine while maintaining power steering control and eventually bringing the vehicle to a complete halt. Restarting the truck requires entry of an unlock code generated by the system and on-board authorization using Cadec’s OBC.
Cadec said the new shutdown module meets U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) criteria for federal grants, including the Intercity Bus Security Grant Program.
Other upgrades announced for PowerVue include advanced mapping with Google and Microsoft Live Earth maps and aerial photos. Combined with new open standard KML technology, the system allows fleets to overlay actual GPS route histories on hybrid maps for reviewing driver performance or route activity. Fleet managers can choose to replay a single incident, a shift or day, and can even request a fly-over recreation of an entire trip.
