Verizon Networkfleet

Verizon Networkfleet is a subsidiary of Verizon that produces in-vehicle GPS monitoring units and telematics networks.^[1]

Networkcar

In 1999, the company was founded in San Diego under the name Networkcar - Networkfleet was the name of its GPS product service. Initially, it sold units directly through automobile dealerships directly to individual and fleet owner customers. The information gathered by Networkfleet devices was organized on customer web apps, in addition to some information being sent directly to government regulatory bodies (such as the results of smog tests).^[2] After being unable to turn a profit, in 2002 the business was sold to Reynolds and Reynolds, which refocused its efforts on sales in the light fleet market.^[3][4]

The first GPS units were compatible with models 1996 and later, with updates sent from each vehicle every 2 minutes. Data from the unit included maximum speed and speed history, driver performance, and diagnostic alerts. Service and recall alerts could also be received from the manufacturers.^[5] Data is collected directly from the computer and engine of each vehicle, and submitted to fleet dispatchers. The devices also show dispatchers the location of drivers in conjunction with arising delivery needs, in order to direct the closest vehicle available to needed locations.^[6] Data was delivered wirelessly to web server.^[7] The device itself was installed beneath the dash of the vehicle.^[8]

In 2004, the company released a new suite of more advanced driver reporting. Compatibility for trucks was increased to all models since 1988. New reports included in the suite were an "odd-hours" report to prevent unauthorized off hours use of company vehicles, speed violations reports, and stop reports that show the frequency and location of vehicle stoppages.^[6] Networkcar was purchased in 2006 by Hughes Telematics and in 2008 Networkcar officially changed its name to Networkfleet.^[9][10] Newer versions of Networkfleet also included emissions monitoring.^[11]

Verizon Networkfleet

In 2012 Hughes Telematics was acquired by Verizon, and Networkfleet was renamed Verizon Networkfleet. Verizon Networkfleet debuted in March 2013 as a part of the Verizon mobile network and its own fleet. The initial introduction of the device into the Verizon fleet put Networkfleet into 18,000 vehicles.^[12] The service continued to be headquartered in San Diego, but whereas Networkfleet was previously offered through a variety of different telecommunications network, in March the service became solely available through Verizon.^[4] In November 2013 Verizon introduced the Verizon Networkfleet Asset Guard as an add-on to Verizon Networkfleet, with additional reports available and an extended battery life for the individual units themselves.^[13] In December 2013 the company added configurable update rates - between 15 seconds and the traditional two minutes - to its devices.^[14] In April 2014, Verizon added satellite coverage capability to Networkfleet, for vehicles travelling in remote areas.^[15]

Government use

In 2005 Networkfleet began supplying the tool to the American military as well, specifically the Marine corp.^[16] Networkfleet has also been used by municipal governments in order to monitor vehicles assigned for city use. In 2009, this included an effort to reduce emissions from city business activities in Napa, California, a project funded by a grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.^[17] It has also been used by emergency medical response vehicles to ensure timely response rates to emergency incidents, in addition to use in determining the exact conditions of motor vehicle accidents involving municipal vehicles, in order to determine their cause.^[18]

References

External links

• Verizon Networkfleet