CES 2006: new breed GPS vehicle tracking system provides detailed analysis of driving behaviour

January GPS vehicle tracking has been around for as long as GPS, but a new and very interesting variant debuts at the CES later today which enables parents and commercial fleet owners to track when, where, how far, how fast and how aggressively a vehicle is being driven. This information is tracked passively via GPS satellites and recorded on an in- vehicle DriveSync receiver and USB data key. Because the information is tracked off-line, DriveSync eliminates the high monthly service fees associated with other GPS vehicle tracking systems. Results can be viewed by detaching the data key from the receiver unit and inserting it into a computer USB port. The vehicle tracking results are uploaded to a DriveSync server where the data is interpreted and consolidated into customized reports. These reports, including trip logs, route maps and usage alerts, are viewed via a secure, password-protected website. The results provide a detailed analysis of vehicle use and driver behavior. Sample screen shots of the data available inside.

DriveSync provides parents with a clear picture of their teen's driving behavior, including speeding and aggressive driving habits. Prepared with this information, parents can discuss with their teen issues of driving safety, responsibility and accountability. Likewise, DriveSync can help parents measure their teen's driving progress, and set driving privileges accordingly.

The same training applications can be used for fleet drivers. By highlighting risky driving behavior, DriveSync allows fleet owners to identify, and correct, unsafe driving practices. DriveSync can also facilitate more efficient driving behaviour. The accurate tracking of routes, mileage and speed enables fleet owners to anticipate and effectively manage vehicle insurance, gas and maintenance costs. That same data can further be used for forecasting and budgeting purposes.

"DriveSync is an affordable, secure and comprehensive GPS vehicle tracking system", says John Reynolds, Vice President of Business Development at IMS. "In addition to providing a conclusive analysis of driver behaviour, DriveSync units are encrypted to ensure privacy of personal information. So you can track your vehicle with confidence knowing your information remains protected and confidential."

DriveSync will be available to retailers and distributors beginning February 2006.