New tracking system for tow truck companies

Gearworks, a wireless systems provider based in Minneapolis, MN, has introduced a new satellite-based tracking and dispatch system for tow truck operators. GMC, a division of General Motors Corp., has selected Gearworks’ etrace wireless system for its new towing concept vehicle. Drivers use a Palm Pilot handheld device to operate the system, which provides dispatchers and tow truck drivers real-time

Sean Kilcarr

Oct. 31, 2001

Gearworks, a wireless systems provider based in Minneapolis, MN, has introduced a new satellite-based tracking and dispatch system for tow truck operators.

GMC, a division of General Motors Corp., has selected Gearworks’ etrace wireless system for its new towing concept vehicle. Drivers use a Palm Pilot handheld device to operate the system, which provides dispatchers and tow truck drivers real-time tracking via Global Positioning Systems. Messages, prepared electronic work orders, electronic signature capture, credit card and receipt printing, and bar code reading of vehicle identification numbers are also possible with Gearworks’ system.

"There are 36,000 towing companies, yet, less than 5% use a, wireless fleet management system," said Keith Lauver, Gearwors’ CEO. He added that this is this is the second year in a row that GMC has featured etrace in a commercial fleet concept vehicle.

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr

Editor in Chief

Sean Kilcarr is a former longtime FleetOwner senior editor who wrote for the publication from 2000 to 2018. He served as editor-in-chief from 2017 to 2018.