The widespread uptake of technology in the road freight industry could improve road safety, reduce transport costs and cut emissions, according to a draft strategy released by the National Transport Commission (NTC).
The policy, titled Draft National In-Vehicle Telematics Strategy: The Road Freight Sector – developed in consultation with governments, industry and unions – outlines the potential of a partnership approach for the use of technology.
NTC chief executive, Nick Dimopoulos, says industry is currently investing in technologies, like tracking deliveries in real time, to improve truck fleet efficiencies.
“A great opportunity exists to harness the potential of real time information by encouraging the wider uptake of technology,” Dimopoulos said.
“By 2030 we’d like to see 90% of the road freight sector voluntarily using in-vehicle technologies, with information routinely shared between supply chain parties to drive efficiencies and proactively manage fatigue, speed and overloading risks.”
The NTC says a national strategy will provide a clear and consistent policy for technology use and give industry the confidence they need to invest.
In-vehicle telematics encompasses the electronic monitoring and management of vehicles, devices and loads.
The draft strategy and supporting discussion paper have informed the NTC’s policy proposal on the use of on board mass monitoring (a type of in-vehicle telematic).
A policy position paper on the use of electronic work diaries is currently being finalised.
The strategy and accompanying documents are open for public comment until 21 July 2010 and can be downloaded on the submissions page of the NTC website.