ETL Électronique Ltd., a Canadian manufacturer of electronic protection products for automobiles and trucks, has introduced its Astus light-vehicle fleet management system to the U.S. market.
Astus is designed to serve the needs of small- to medium-sized businesses and providers of utility services who operate using a fleet of 4 to 50 light vehicles. It is primarily targeted at fleets in the plumbing, heating, pest control, cable TV, telephone, refrigeration, florist and locksmith businesses.
“While the industry has invested considerable effort in developing heavy truck management systems, the light-fleet vehicle sector has been relatively neglected,” said Eric Lapointe, founder and president of ETL Électronique.
The system uses an on-board mini-computer to compile information, an ID key to ensure vehicle security and monitoring, and Windows-based software to quickly locate the information needed. Astus is available for about $650 U.S. per vehicle, which does not include installation.
The onboard mini-computer registers when the motor is turned on and off, calculating time en route and time stopped, as well as average and maximum speed, distance traveled between stops and idle time. Only an authorized employee can start the vehicle using the electronic keys.
Fleets can identify and alter inefficient routings and determine the impact of driver habits such as speed, stops and idling, on fuel consumption and maintenance, so enabling them to maximize value from time on the road, ETL said. The system also includes an anti-theft/starter disabler device.