New fuel theft detection solution introduced

March 6, 2012

KISSIMMEE, FL. PeopleNet and Vusion, part of Trimble’s International Transportation and Logistics Division, chose the Truckload Carriers Assn. (TCA) Annual Convention, being held here in Kissimmee, FL, this week, to announce that they are nearing completion of a fuel theft detection solution.

With Vusion’s new fuel theft detection capability and a PeopleNet onboard computer connected to the vehicle’s J1939 bus, fleets will be able to track pre- and post-transaction fuel tank levels without the cost of additional hardware. The tank data is integrated with fuel purchase data for verification that the entire fuel purchase was pumped into the authorized truck’s tanks.

After the driver pulls up to the fuel pump and turns off the tractor, the PeopleNet system detects the “Ignition Off” event and immediately captures and stores the pre-fill tank level. When the driver restarts the tractor after fueling is complete, PeopleNet records the “Ignition On” tank level and transmits the tank-level readings for each event. Then Vusion receives, processes and aligns electronic fuel-purchase data with the tank size and calculates tank-level changes.

For immediate notification of fuel theft, the Vusion system creates an “Excess Fuel” alert when the volume of fuel purchased (reported in gallons) exceeds the net change in fuel recorded by the onboard computer. The system is designed to also detect tank-level changes due to siphoning and, through continuous monitoring, capture tank level changes even when the driver fails to turn off the truck prior to fueling.

Phase one of the new fuel theft detection release will provide customers with post-authorization tank level information, Vusion president, Thomas Fansler, told Fleet Owner. Phase two of the release, which incorporates constant monitoring of fuel levels, will allow users to know in advance how much fuel should be authorized for purchase at any given time.

“To help mitigate the negative effect that the recent quick rise in fuel costs is having on fleets, we have accelerated enhancements to our fuel theft detection processes,” Fansler said. “Fleets need a solution that maintains their flexibility in choosing fuel providers and which provides coverage at all fueling locations.”

About the Author

Wendy Leavitt

Wendy Leavitt is a former FleetOwner editor who wrote for the publication from 1998 to 2021. 

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Boost truck leasing profits with telematics insights! Reduce maintenance costs, improve uptime, and strengthen customer relationships. Learn how data drives success.
This free guide outlines simple steps for hiring and onboarding commercial drivers while ensuring that you meet Regulation Part 391 and maintain fully compliant driver qualification...
Ready to boost fleet efficiency by up to 50%? Learn how AI-powered dispatch and next-gen tech are transforming TMS workflows, improving driver planning, and streamlining operations...
Gain a strategic edge in today’s evolving fleet landscape. Join us to explore how fuel cards are helping fleet managers cut costs, enhance control, and prepare for an electrified...