A new telematics system has been developed to boost fleet utilisation and remove range anxiety for transport managers running electric vehicles (EVs).
Spark EV uses artificial-intelligence-based journey prediction software, which it claims will enable electric vehicles to complete up to 20% more journeys between charges.
This equates to an extra 2.8 journeys per day for the average fleet, according to the Cambridge-based technology firm.
Combining sensors, cloud-based machine-learning and a smartphone app, Spark EV analyses live driver, vehicle and other data sources (such as the weather and congestion). An AI algorithm is then applied to increase the accuracy of journey predictions for EVs.
Using machine learning, Spark EV automatically updates predictions after each journey, continually improving efficiency.
Drivers and fleet managers enter their journey through the Spark EV app, website, or via their existing fleet management software. It then advises whether they will be able to complete it, based on live data, previous trips and chargepoint locations.
Spark EV says this reassures fleet managers and drivers that they will be able to schedule and complete jobs without running out of charge.
It also allows managers to add extra journeys or drop-offs to EV routes, based on their remaining capacity.
“Fleet managers understand that the future increasingly revolves around electric vehicles, due to new legislation coming into force around the world, a move away from diesel and rapid growth in EV sales,” said Justin Ott, CEO, Spark EV Technology.
“However, existing methods of predicting range between charges are not accurate enough for fleet use, leading to range anxiety and a consequent drop in productivity as managers cut back the number of journeys to avoid potentially running out of power.”
Ott believes that more accurate predictions will drive greater efficiencies for businesses, while enabling them to meet tightening emissions legislation.
Spark EV is paid for via monthly subscription and can be integrated with existing fleet management and scheduling systems, or used as a standalone option for smaller fleets.
The company said it is already receiving strong interest from Scandinavia, where EV penetration is currently ahead of the UK.
