UK FIRST FOR TELEMATICS WELCOMED BY PETROCHEM FIRM

A vehicle tracking breakthrough has led a petrochemical company to introduce telematics to its fleet.

Western Fuel has agreed a deal with Navman Wireless, the UK's largest manufacturer of tracking, messaging and navigation equipment, after its Qube tracking unit became the first in the UK to meet health a safety requirements for vehicles transporting hazardous materials and operating in potentially-explosive atmospheres.

"We chose Navman Wireless because it was the only telematics company whose technology has been certified as suitable for the petrochem industry," said Craig Lamont, Western Fuel Director.

The Qube unit meets essential health and safety requirements for Category 3G of the ATEX directive, the fundamental legal requirement relating to the welfare of workers in explosive conditions.

Tony Neill, Navman Wireless Executive Vice President, said: "We are delighted to agree a deal with Western Fuel. Ensuring our equipment is suitable for every kind of fleet is imperative to our continued development."

As part of the deal, Navman Wireless installed Qubes and MDT-860 terminals, which allow two-way messaging between drivers and offices, to 11 of the Somerset company's vehicles.

Western Fuel also utilises Navman Wireless ConEx technology, which enables the business to monitor when fuel pumps are active.

Craig added: "Navman Wireless has done everything it said it would and the equipment does exactly what it says on the tin."