WORKING AT HEIGHTS
driver behaviour and overall road safety,” Potter points out. These systems provide fleet operators with real-time visibility into vehicle performance and driver behaviour. “With the geo-positioning services and connected fleet support, customers can use this to follow everything from the position of the truck to detailed information about the driver, load, and type of vehicle,” he explains. “The safety service also allows fleet controllers to monitor truck speed, harsh braking, and unsafe driving behaviour. This allows the owner to intervene and to coach and correct the driver’s behaviour.” Such capabilities not only enhance safety but also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wear and tear, further reinforcing the value of connected technologies. Advancing sustainable transport Sustainability is another key driver of change in the industry, with OEMs and operators alike seeking ways to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. Volvo Trucks has taken a significant step in this direction with the local
With the geo-positioning services and connected fleet support, customers can use this to follow everything from the position of the truck to detailed information about the driver, load, and type of vehicle.
around the truck. “The most effective way we do
“With the use of advanced analytical methods and AI, we can analyse large amounts of data and use the findings in our product development,” says Potter. “We can develop new products and services that benefit our customers, and make transportation more productive, more sustainable, and safer.” In the South African context, the potential impact on road safety is especially significant. Despite the availability of advanced connected solutions, adoption has not yet reached its full potential. “With road safety being a major issue in South Africa, a missed opportunity could be the full adoption of connected solutions that contribute to improving
this is by working side by side with our customers, understanding their operations, priorities, and pain points, and tailoring the right mix of products and services to support them,” he adds. This collaborative approach reflects a broader industry trend towards co- creation, where OEMs and customers work together to optimise outcomes. Connectivity and safety at the forefront Digitalisation is playing an increasingly central role in the evolution of the heavy truck industry. Connectivity, in particular,
is unlocking new opportunities for improving efficiency and safety.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS MAY 2026 18
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