TomTom opens software to accept third-party pre-defined route plans

TomTom Business Solutions, through its Software Alliance Program, is allowing over-the-air delivery of third-party, pre-defined routes into its Pro Series of navigation devices.

Using the WebFleet API, industry-specific routing software vendors can integrate with TomTom’s fleet navigation devices to send predefined routes directly to the vehicle, increasing efficiency by up to 20%, TomTom said.

Route planning software providers develop optimal routing algorithms for a wide range of vertical markets, including delivery, heavy transport, school bus, trash collection, paratransit, snow plows, food delivery, meter reading, and concrete ready mix. TomTom said its open APIs allow these software vendors to introduce new advanced routing capabilities which were not possible until now.

“While specific routing needs vary by industry, companies requiring granular control of their drivers’ routes share some common characteristics. Transportation of heavy loads and dangerous goods, avoiding dangerous neighborhoods, school zones and excessive U-turns are typical examples,” said Matthew Curtis, Software Alliance manager, TomTom Business Solutions.  “Now, fleet managers have an effective tool to ensure drivers are adhering to the rules and restrictions of the road and using the most effective route to get to their destination, all while keeping them safe.”

According to TomTom, companies can now ensure drivers take the approved route, issue warnings when there’s a deviation, and enable their customers to track progress of the given route, improving visibility into their operations. When routes change or new drivers take over an existing route, TomTom helps drivers learn new routes by providing turn-by-turn directions to pick-up or delivery locations.

Customized routes are sent to the TomTom navigation devices in the vehicle, displaying the routes as they were designed.