Ryan FowlerFord Pro has warned that many businesses are failing to unlock the value of vehicle data, despite the potential to save time, money and reduce downtime.
Its new report, “Closing the Commercial Vehicle Data Gap”, found that small businesses in particular are not making full use of connected vehicle technology, with concerns around both expertise and data security acting as barriers.
Based on a survey of 3,000 van drivers and 150 fleet managers across Europe and the US, the research identified three gaps.
On value, 46% of van drivers and 25% of fleet managers do not make daily use of vehicle health data, despite citing it as a key priority.
On education, only 32% of van drivers and 57% of fleet managers said they know “a lot” about how data can help save time and money, dropping to 10% for small businesses. On privacy, 94% of drivers and 97% of managers expressed concerns.
Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe, said: “Connected vehicle data is the lifeblood of commercial vehicle efficiency.
“Like a fitness tracker for your fleet, it helps optimise vehicle and driver performance by providing both real-time updates and cumulative data for deeper analysis and richer insight.
“This new research has shown that there is a gap which separates the savviest in our business, who have seized the opportunity presented by connected data to save time and money, from those still relying exclusively on traditional management tools and not unlocking its potential. As an industry, we need to close this gap – and fast.”
Ford Pro said businesses can reduce van downtime by up to 60% through smarter monitoring and maintenance, supported by its telematics platforms and mobile servicing.
The company, which achieved ISO 27001 certification this year, emphasised its commitment to data protection, noting it does not sell customer data and provides in-vehicle visibility when data is shared.
Jeremy Gould, director, Ford Pro Intelligence, Europe, said: “Data security isn’t just a feature at Ford Pro; it’s a foundational principle.
“The industry needs to better explain the true value represented by today’s connected vehicle data.
“Our role at Ford Pro is to ensure that customers feel comfortable giving us access to their data so that they can really start to enjoy the benefits it can deliver.”
The report highlights the urgency of closing data gaps among SMEs, which account for 99% of European businesses.
Ford Pro cited Lloyds British as an example of a company using its Transit Customs and Ford Pro Telematics Essentials to maintain productivity. The system has helped Lloyds save up to 60 days of van uptime per year across its 70-van fleet.
