Telematics

Telematics is the use of technology to collect and analyze data from vehicles. Telematics systems enable vehicles to transmit real-time information, like their location or fuel status, back to the business or fleet manager who can then use the information to make real-time and long-term decisions. They're a critical tool for any business that relies on vehicles to complete work.

Telematics systems start by collecting data from the vehicle. Newer vehicles from car makers like Ford are already equipped to transmit useful data, but older vehicles or those of another make may be able to get connected with a plug-in modem. That data is processed by telematics software, which then provides real-time information and recommendations to users, often business owners and fleet managers. For example, a fleet manager could view all of their service trucks on a live map to see where they are at any given time. In another case, a business owner can monitor the fuel efficiency of their vehicles over time and use that information to effectively schedule service or plan for changes to their fleet.

Some systems, like Ford Pro Telematics, can also be used to remotely set controls on vehicles. For example, a fleet manager can prevent a vehicle from driving over a speed limit or be prevented from leaving a specified area.

This ultimately depends on how much data the vehicle's internal computer can gather and how effectively the telematics software can process the raw data into actionable information for business owners and fleet managers. As an example, Ford Pro Telematics can display a vehicles location, gas mileage, EV range, and diagnostic information, and more.

A telematics control unit is the bridge between the vehicle's sensors and the telematics service provider, enabling data to be collected and then processed. Newer vehicles from car makers like Ford are already equipped with built-in telematics control units and don't require additional hardware.

Most 2020MY Ford vehicles and newer are outfitted with a built-in modem. Incompatible vehicles include:

1. 2021 E-Series Cutaway/E-Series VN127
2. 2021 F-650-F-750 Medium Duty
3. 2020 F-59/53 (Motorhome)
4. 2020 F-150 Workhorse (XL version)

Once you’ve established your log-in credentials, it’s time to fully activate your Telematics account by adding the VINs for eligible vehicles in your fleet. Before adding new VINs, make sure to review the checklist “Vehicle Readiness for Enroll and Unenroll,” which you should’ve received in your onboarding email. You’ll enroll vehicles through your Ford Pro Marketplace account. Once logged in, navigate to the “Vehicles” tab on the left side of the screen. Click the “Add Vehicles” button and fill out the pop-up form. You can enter vehicles one at a time or add vehicles in bulk by downloading a CSV template, populating it with your vehicles’ information and uploading the file. Make sure to click the “Add Vehicle” button, and your enrolled vehicles will immediately appear on the Vehicles tab with an Action status. For more detailed instructions, check out this step-by-step tutorial. If you’re still having issues uploading vehicles, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Ford Pro Intelligence Team.

You can order Plug-In Modem Kits via your Ford Pro Marketplace account. Each Kit costs $129 and includes the plug-in device (PID), as well as an accompanying splitter and harness. The PID easily plugs into your vehicle’s OBD-II port. Please note that your Kit may take up to 30 days to be delivered. The richness of data available via a PID is determined by the age and capability of the vehicle.

Upgrading your active Telematics Essentials subscription is a quick and easy process that can be completed within your Ford Pro Marketplace account. Vehicles must be re-enrolled, and the upgrade requires two ignition cycles. This process could take longer depending on the vehicle’s location and its current use.

In-Vehicle Coaching is an audible alert system that monitors and corrects driver behavior in real time. To access this feature, you must have an active Telematics subscription?1. You can add In-Vehicle Coaching at no extra cost through your Ford Pro Marketplace account. Once you’ve added eligible vehicles, you can set custom driver parameters, such as speeding threshold, idling duration and acceleration sensitivity. For step-by-step instructions on this process, check out this video tutorial.

To access vehicle security features, you must first be a Telematics subscriber. If you’re already subscribed to Telematics, you can add security features through your Ford Pro Marketplace account. By remotely configuring a collection of security alerts, you’ll be notified if a fleet vehicle is being misused outside of business hours or is involved in a traffic incident. A vehicle’s ignition does not need to be turned on to track its location.