Astrata’s Global Location Software and its GPS tracking service, the GLP100, was chosen by Biforst, which needed a scalable tracking capability to manage its fleet of new trucks – which will be used to transport Pepsi Cola throughout Malaysia. Astrata has installed its hardware into more than 60% of Biforst fleet of lorries and trucks, which includes Volvo, Scania and Fuso vehicles.
Appala Nakkiah, Group managing director for Biforst Group said, “Biforst is an expanding organisation working in a dynamic industry – we needed a partner who can react and adapt with us as well as follow us as we expand.
Environmentally aware
“We get tremendous value from the Astrata GPS tracking and fleet management system; we are able to monitor the on-time delivery performance of Pepsi’s consignments to their customers ensuring a first class service. The immediate effect of using the GLS System was our delivery performance and utilisation of the vehicles increased, our drivers became more aware of the impact of their driving habits on the environment as fuel usage was tracked and compared across vehicles and drivers.
“These are very large trucks with a payload of 32 tons so we need to manage our costs effectively.”
“It doesn’t end there, we use the Astrata Global Location Software to monitor and enforce health and safety regulations, as well as reduce our vehicle emissions improving the environment. Driving patterns are analysed and where areas in need of improvement in the driver’s behavior are observed, then additional training is provided. Reducing the idling time, changing gear at the right rev’s, braking in good time and reducing speeds all contribute to reducing fuel costs, improving the environment and minimising our carbon footprint.
Pilot trial
In a three-month pilot trial, the system’s flexibility helped with time delivery performance, driver safety and driving performance, environmental, fuel usage as well as security of the vehicle and loads, Astrata said.
Tong Pow Mun, regional manager of Astrata South-East Asia, said, “Biforst is a visionary company using Astrata’s GLS System to manage a variety of their business needs and achieving maximum return on their investment. This is an excellent case study of how to use GPS to produce the upmost ROI.”
The software has been designed to have real-time monitoring, secure communications and expandability to other sensors, modules and data devices. The solution can also include GPS, driver ID, 2-way voice, horns and blinkers, panic button and cargo door sensor.
The vehicles carry refrigerated goods, mixed electronics and FMCG, such as Pepsi Cola, throughout Malaysia and Indonesia.
