Orange Business Services has partnered with UK-based start-up Konetik to help it launch an aftermarket plug-and-play fleet management solution.
The innovative solution allows small and medium sized enterprises (SME) to manage fleets of vehicles, numbering two to hundreds, which traditionally can be time consuming, expensive and difficult.
As part of the deal, Orange Business Services is providing a single, easily-provisioned SIM card that provides data connectivity for the solution, together with value added services, including service management and access to a portal for SIM management. The Orange SIM provides users with reliable connectivity and cost-effective cross-border roaming.
Konetik will initially launch in Germany, which is the biggest European car economy. Subsequently it will roll out the service in the DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) region and then to the rest of Europe. The company charges a flat monthly service rate with no additional costs.
The solution incorporates an intuitive and secure device that plugs into the diagnostic port of the vehicle to access data, such as fuel consumption, driving behavior and telematics. The data is sent to the cloud via a direct data connection. The fleet manager can access this data through an easy-to-use dashboard on the computer for further analysis.
Orange supports Konetik’s design team
Orange Business Services has been involved with Konetik since the early days of the product development, providing support on the optimal connectivity solution for the proof-of-concept testing.
“Cars generate a large amount of accessible data which we believe could benefit SMEs in streamlining their fleet management to make data-driven decisions, making the whole process simpler and less time consuming. As a start-up, it has been an enormous benefit having the ongoing support of the Orange Business Services team and their expertise to provide our end-users with the best customer experience,” said Balazs Szabo, CEO of Konetik.
Benefits include the ability to track vehicle usage, which is especially important where vehicles are being used for both private and company purposes. The system can also take care of routine administration such as route optimisation, job management and log book details. In addition, drivers can access their information via a smartphone app that can help them develop their driving skills and increase efficiency, for example.
“Orange Business Services extensive expertise in communications solutions and the connected car industry have enabled Konetik to design an innovative service specifically designed for SMEs. We are proud to be helping a start-up like Konetik rethink the way SMEs can manage their car fleets in a reliable and simplified way,” said Anne-Sophie Lotgering, senior vice president, Europe, Russia and CIS at Orange Business Services.
From fixed and mobile connectivity to a full range of specific services for the connect car market, Orange Business Services has proven experience supporting leading automobile manufacturers, such as Tesla Motors, Renault Group and PSA Peugeot Citroën. Orange’s connected car solutions combine safety, navigation, entertainment and travel ease into a rich and comprehensive experience for the driver.
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