Mapon Blog

Here we write about our latest updates and share our knowledge by publishing insightful articles on how to use fleet management telematics solutions to take your business to a new level!

8 Reasons Why Fleet Cameras Are Better Than Simple Dash Cams

A dash cam is a common thing in road vehicles these days. The main benefit is obvious – you get reliable footage to prove the accident wasn’t your fault.  You can easily purchase so-called consumer dash cams in most electronics shops and online retailers. However, fleet management companies like Mapon offer more advanced dash cams that we call fleet cameras. What’s the difference? Take a moment to compare a generic dash cam from a local shop to a business-grade fleet camera system. FeatureFleet camerasConsumer dash camsGet footage in computer remotelyGet alerts when something goes wrongPower source inputDirectly from vehicleCigarette lighterAutomatic turn on and offAttachment typeScrews or special adhesiveSuction cupAmount of footage before overwrite48 – 72 hours12 – 24 hoursGPS tracking optionVisibility around the vehicleAnywhere you needFront of the vehicleComparison of fleet cameras vs consumer dash cams 1. Real reliability and security with a system A generic dash cam is just that: a camera attached to the car’s dashboard or windshield. Mapon offers something more. Not only the camera itself, but a whole system called fleet management software. The camera has a SIM card, and it sends data to this platform using mobile data. This way, you can fix a lot of the problems that you would get with ordinary dash cams.  Remote access Imagine your company’s vehicle got into a crash. Your driver knows it’s not their fault, but you need to double-check it and provide proof to the insurer and, in some cases, the court. Since the vehicle is damaged, you need to drive to it to get the footage from the memory card. Then you need to get back to the office and load the file into the computer, and then upload it to provide access to relevant third parties. Can you imagine how much time and fuel this will take?  Compare the process to what would happen with a fleet camera system. The dash cam automatically detects that a crash occurred and uploads the relevant footage to the Mapon platform. It would take a couple of minutes at most, and there’s no need to physically visit the vehicle. Additionally, you can remotely access the memory card to get a larger piece of footage for more context.  Fleet camera system lets you access footage remotely Automatic notifications When a crash happens, time is critical – to get help, of course, but also to prepare business arrangements, for example, to inform the client that the delivery will be late. Generic dash cams will help with none of that. But Mapon fleet cameras have multiple systems to inform you as soon as something happens: Get alerts in the platform or via SMS when the camera detects a crash Check the vehicle’s precise location on the map Use the camera’s live stream function to assess the situation Then, it’s up to you to do what’s necessary in the specific situation: send a replacement vehicle, call an ambulance, inform the client, and so on. It’s easier and quicker to do when you have all the information you need.  2. Business-grade vs consumer-grade dash cams Most commercial dash cams are by design made for consumer use, so they’re not as fit for fleets. There are multiple small, but very important ways how you will be inconvenienced when using a basic dash cam: manual power button, blocked cigarette lighter input, weaker type of attachment, smaller storage, and more. Let’s compare! Better starting mechanism and power source Any camera needs power to work, and most generic models use the cigarette lighter input (auxiliary power outlet if you want to sound fancy). It creates two big problems. First, it permanently occupies the cigarette lighter, so you’ll have no chance to charge your phone, for example. Or feel free to charge your phone and risk getting no accident footage. Second, you’ll always need to manually turn on the camera. Sounds easy, but Murphy’s law says that an accident will happen that one time you forget to do it. You’ll also need to instruct employees to do it and hope they won’t use the excuse “forgot to turn it on” when they want to remove negative footage.  Fleet cameras are connected directly to the vehicle, fixing both problems. They don’t use the cigarette lighter, and will turn on automatically when the vehicle is started.  Stronger attachment and larger storage Furthermore, simple dash cams are designed to be quickly attached to the windshield or dashboard with suction cups. They sacrifice sturdiness for speed. In case of an accident, it’s not uncommon for the camera to simply fall off due to the impact. This prevents it from filming the aftermath, and may damage the memory card, leaving you without any footage. In contrast, a fleet camera is attached using screws or a special adhesive, which is pretty hard to remove by accident.  One more issue concerns the memory card. To reduce the price, commercial dash cams have limited storage, in many cases 64 or 128 gigabytes (GB). In practical terms, this means up to 24h of footage at best. Around 3 workdays. When the storage is full, the oldest footage gets overwritten by new material. If you want to keep older footage, you need to load it regularly on a computer, and if you don’t do it, there’s no way to save that one important moment from 5 days ago. Fleet camera systems have two solutions for this issue. First is simple – they have more storage, usually around 256GB. Second, fleet cams use sensors to detect important events and automatically upload the footage to the cloud, where it’s safe. Even if the memory card gets rewritten, the clip will still be available online on the fleet management platform. In it, you can also check the date of the oldest footage that’s still available in the memory card – and request a manual upload!  Smart extras you didn’t know about Fleet cameras have some lovely features you will probably not find in a consumer dash cam: A button that lets the driver send footage to the cloud when something important happens A built-in GPS tracker that allows fleet managers to see the vehicle on a live map 3. There are more cams than just dash cams For the sake of comparison, we’ve been only discussing dash cams. These are cameras that film the front of the vehicle. They are highly useful in many cases, but not always: What if an accident happened at the rear of the vehicle, or you need to monitor the cargo onloading / offloading? What if you wanted to cover blind spots in real-time? What if the driver needs to safely take care of business while the vehicle is still running? A fleet camera system is great in that you can add eyes basically anywhere on your vehicle. Of course, some locations are more common than others: the dashboard, rear-view mirrors, the boot, and so on. If you add multiple cameras on one vehicle, you get a much more detailed view around it, making accident investigations, maneuvering (if a screen is installed in the cabin), and security management easier. Needless to say, a generic dash cam can only be installed on a windshield or dashboard.  Surprising cost-efficiency You might wonder how much all these benefits cost. With our full device rental model, you pay a fixed monthly fee that covers everything: the camera itself, mobile data, access to the fleet management platform, and even a replacement guarantee. So the upfront investment is not that big, unlike consumer dash cams that you would need to buy at full price or with large interest rates. And the return on investment? Our clients report saving between €2,500 and €5,000 after a single accident by speeding up the investigation and proving the company’s driver was not at fault. That’s enough to cover the cost of installing cameras on 15 vehicles. Contact us, and let’s protect your fleet’s future today!

Toms Skrinda

09. Apr 2025

Safer Fleet in 30 Minutes: Delta LV Experience with Mapon Cameras

If you try to list some of the most dangerous jobs, a truck driver is probably not at the very top. But Delta LV‘s experience suggests otherwise – congested roads and careless drivers increase the risk of accidents, filling drivers’ everyday lives with dangerous situations. Delta LV is doing everything it can to make drivers’ everyday lives safer by monitoring the road with Mapon fleet cameras. They ease information exchange with the road police because they record evidence of dangerous situations and help monitor events in real time. But how does the day-to-day work with the cameras look? Read on and find out what Delta LV logistics specialists Kristīne Ektermane and Artis Lasmanis shared with us. Life Before Mapon Cameras Delta LV has been a Mapon client since 2015, but they started using our camera solution in October 2024 because they realised that the existing one was not reliable enough. Before that, drivers had to manage the cameras themselves. There were times when the driver had erased the accident recordings or when the data was not retained due to full memory, so the old camera platform was not completely reliable. The company opted for the Mapon camera solution because it:1) provides a live stream2) allows remote access to the full camera recording3) stores the full camera recording on a memory card with the option to download needed clips4) automatically records dangerous situations and stores the footage in the Mapon cloud, which can be used as training material for new drivers A Simple Installation Process Given that Delta LV wanted to equip at least 100 vehicles with cameras, it was important to find a convenient and flexible way for the company to do this. With the help of the client manager Mārtiņš, we came up with the best approach – a Mapon technician went to the Delta LV service centre and showed their electrician how to install the cameras. The company gradually completed the rest of the installations based on vehicle availability, priorities, and the electrician’s capacity. Currently, it takes a Delta LV electrician about 30 minutes to equip a vehicle – the same time as a Mapon technician.  When the installation of the cameras started, the company informed drivers about the changes. In general, employees were positive about the process – there were no drivers who were totally against the new camera solution. However, some were sceptical at first because they were concerned about privacy and assumed that the cabin of the truck would also be filmed. But then the logistics experts showed what the footage looks like – it has no sound, and only the road is filmed. This was enough to convince the doubtful employees. Improvements in Driving Culture Since the implementation of the solution, logistics professionals have noticed improvements in the driving culture. Kristīne comments: “This is because drivers know that we can view their driving at any moment and catch them doing something improper, such as dangerous overtaking or breaking other traffic rules.” The live stream function is useful when a company is recruiting new employees. Logistics professionals can monitor the new employee’s driving style in real time and make sure, for example, that they make dangerous turns correctly, stay within the speed limit, and obey other rules. The video footage can then also serve as a learning tool – both as a good and bad example.  Fuel Savings with the Help of Mapon In the long term, the installation of cameras and improvement in driving culture could be reflected in reduced fuel consumption. The company already measures fuel consumption with sensors on some vehicles: “We have put in fuel rods as a control mechanism. Before, people could tamper with the fuel, but now that doesn’t happen anymore. We noticed that some people had shortages every month, but we put in a rod, and there are no more shortages,” says Artis. Safety on the Road and Evidence of Dangerous Situations There is no shortage of dangerous situations on the road – every second or third day drivers call the logistics specialists about minor incidents on the road, and around every two weeks report high-risk situations.  “For example, last week, there was a crazy, dangerous situation – one lorry overtook another without assessing the safety of the manoeuvre. As a result, a very serious accident almost happened involving three lorries. At least we can try to catch such incidents with cameras,” says Artis. After the incident, Delta LV logistics specialists received a panicked call from the driver and allowed her to rest for the rest of the day. Delta LV sends recordings of such serious incidents to the road police so that they can take further action in the hope that together, they can improve the overall driving culture. The company’s logistics specialists add that the police have given positive feedback on these types of submissions, as they are accompanied by clear evidence of what happened on the road. When we asked Kristīne and Artis about their overall experience with the cameras, they said: “We would definitely recommend installing the cameras; we can only give positive feedback. One company already approached us with interest – we told them about Mapon, and their eyes lit up because they liked our experience.” If you would like to join the ranks of our customers who are committed to road safety and driving culture, please contact one of our client managers by filling in the form.

Rebeka Nagle

01. Apr 2025

5 Signs Your Fleet Needs a Camera Upgrade in 2025

Do you have cameras in your fleet? Too many fleet managers either say no or admit that their cameras were installed so long ago that they can barely remember the details. If that sounds familiar, it’s time for a reality check – because in 2025, outdated or missing cameras are a liability your business can’t afford. With costs rising across the board, from insurance premiums to vehicle repairs, you simply can’t afford to put your driver and vehicle security at risk relying on guesses or outdated solutions. Traffic accidents already cost companies billions every year – yes, you read it correctly. The thing is – bad dash cams can be just as harmful as having none at all. Imagine – you think you’ll get all the necessary evidence from cameras, but turns out they made grainy footage or even turned off randomly midway through the trip. Then, when an incident occurs or someone raises a claim, you are left without any reliable evidence. That’s not protecting your drivers – that’s setting them up for failure. So, how do you know if it’s time to install fleet cameras or upgrade the existing ones? We’ve put together five clear signs to pay attention to. Check the list – if even one applies, it’s time for you to take action. 1. Poor Video Quality Is Costing Your Business A fleet camera’s primary purpose is to provide clear, reliable video evidence in case of an accident or dispute. But if a camera’s footage is blurry, pixelated, or otherwise unusable, it fails to serve its most critical function. Low-resolution cameras often struggle in real-world driving conditions. Footage that is too grainy to read license plates, identify road signs, or confirm the actions of other drivers can lead to unnecessary legal battles, rejected insurance claims, or lost disputes.  Modern HD dash cams eliminate these issues by providing crystal-clear video, ensuring every detail is captured. This helps clear drivers from false accusations, speed up the investigation, and protect the company from liability. If your current fleet cameras are struggling to provide clear video, upgrading to a high-resolution system is a must. 2. You Work on Dangerous, Underkept Roads Not every fleet operates on freshly paved highways and well-maintained city streets. Many drivers face pothole-ridden roads, narrow construction zones, and poorly lit rural routes that increase the risk of accidents. Add bad weather to the mix – snow, rain, or fog – and the chances of something going wrong multiply. When road conditions are unpredictable, having a reliable camera system is a necessity. Clear, high-resolution footage can provide proof of road hazards, helping fleets challenge unfair claims, seek compensation for damages, and hold municipalities accountable for failing infrastructure. For example, one of our clients, a Finnish timber company, was able to prove that their driver slid off the road due to inadequate road maintenance. You can read more about it in our article! This company also sends recordings to the local transport association to highlight hazardous road conditions and push for better road maintenance – something they couldn’t do without reliable video evidence. 3. Other Drivers Put Your Fleet at Risk No matter how skilled or cautious your company drivers are, they can’t control the unpredictable behaviour of others on the road. Speeding incidents, distracted driving, and reckless lane changes create constant risks that no fleet can ignore. Worse yet, staged accidents and false claims can put both drivers and businesses in financial and legal trouble. The number of staged incidents has been rising at unprecedented levels lately, so driving without dash cams or with old and unreliable ones is a gamble you simply can’t afford. Without clear video evidence, proving fault becomes a challenge, and insurance claims can skyrocket. A high-quality dash cam records every critical detail – capturing dangerous manoeuvres, red-light runners, and sudden stops – ensuring that when an accident happens, the truth is on record and your driver is cleared when innocent. 4. Outdated Systems Slow Down Operations Managing a small fleet is one thing – handling dozens or hundreds of vehicles is a different challenge altogether. As a fleet grows, so do the problems: more drivers, more maintenance, more accidents, and more administrative work. Manually tracking incidents is time-consuming – you need to go to the vehicle, take out the memory card, load it into the computer and copy files. With Mapon, all records are remotely uploaded to our platform via mobile data. A modern, cloud-based camera system such as the Mapon camera solution simplifies fleet management by automating video storage, safety alerts, and real-time monitoring. With Mapon, video evidence is always readily available when it matters most. Our clients consistently confirm that our camera solutions operate seamlessly, ensuring that crucial footage is accessible exactly when needed. In fact, resolving just one false damage claim can save fleet managers 10–15 hours of work – a game-changer in an industry where time is money. 5. Your Insurance Costs Are Higher Than They Should Be Frequent accidents without video evidence put your fleet in a high-risk category, driving up insurance premiums. Without proof, insurers assume your drivers are at fault, leading to costly payouts and rising rates. Fraudulent claims and staged accidents only add to the problem, forcing settlements that could have been avoided. Upgrading to a modern fleet camera system helps prove innocence, prevent false claims, and qualify for lower insurance premiums. Insurers reward fleets that prioritise safety, and having clear video evidence is the key to reducing costs. Mapon Will Help You Upgrade to a Smarter Cam System A modern, well-integrated fleet camera system is no longer a luxury – and it’s not as expensive as you might think. At Mapon you can rent high-quality cameras instead of buying them. It’s time to upgrade. Contact our camera experts now and take your business safety to the next level!

Marija Assereckova

04. Mar 2025

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Lähivaara Oy: How Camera Systems Protect Drivers’ Rights

What if one video could save your company thousands – and prove your driver’s innocence? When unexpected incidents happen on the road, facts matter. Mapon fleet cameras let you know what exactly happened so that you can protect your drivers from false accusations. In this article, one of our clients shares how video footage has been critical in ensuring fair treatment for drivers and strengthening the company’s commitment to safety. One piece of video evidence can cut company costs by up to 15 work hours and €5,000 – read on to see how!  Our Client – Lähivaara Oy The family-owned company Lähivaara Oy, based in Kuopio, has been in business since 1959 when Lassi Lähivaara started working with licensed freight transport. Originally specialising in raw timber transportation, the company has since expanded into factory and terminal operations in wood processing. Building a Safety-First Culture with Video Telematics “At Lähivaara Oy, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s at the core of everything we do. We actively listen to our drivers when adopting new technologies and processes to ensure their needs are met,” says the entrepreneur Kari Lähivaara. Over the years, some of the company’s drivers have been wrongly accused of accidents that were actually caused by other road users. These experiences drove Lähivaara Oy to equip its entire fleet with camera systems. In one serious case, one of the company’s vehicles was involved in an accident that could have resulted in severe charges against the driver. Fortunately, the cameras captured every detail, providing undeniable proof that cleared the driver and ensured a fair outcome. Following this, the company’s occupational safety committee decided to install fleet camera systems in all their vehicles to protect drivers’ rights. Today, Lähivaara’s entire fleet of 26 vehicles is equipped with Mapon’s fleet monitoring system and our camera solutions. Mapon offers a range of camera options, including side and rear cameras, providing a full 360° view “We’re committed to continuously improving our safety culture and promoting transparency. The video data we collect not only helps enhance transport safety within our company but is also valuable to forestry companies looking to elevate their safety standards,” says Kari Lähivaara. He adds: “We’ve also shared video footage with SKAL (The Finnish Transport and Logistics Association, representative organisation for road haulage and logistics companies) to highlight hazardous road conditions – this benefits all road users and is part of our broader safety efforts.” Fleet Cameras Bring Security, Fairness, and Cost Savings Since implementing Mapon’s video monitoring system, Lähivaara has seen significant financial and operational benefits. For example, this winter, one of their vehicles slid off the road due to inadequate road maintenance. Thanks to the readily available video footage, the company was able to prove that poor road conditions, not driver error, were to blame. “The cost savings from the Mapon camera system are substantial. Resolving just one false damage claim saves our management team 10–15 hours of work – not to mention avoiding insurance deductibles, increased future premiums, and other unnecessary expenses,” says Kari Lähivaara. “In cases like this, savings range between €2,500 and €5,000. In fact, a single resolved case can cover the cost of equipping 15 vehicles with cameras.” Prioritising Ease of Use and Automation For Lähivaara, an essential requirement was that the cameras function automatically, without the need for driver intervention. Mapon video monitoring stands out for its user-friendly design, making it easy to access footage exactly when needed. Users can watch real-time camera feeds, automatic event recordings, or footage from specific timeframes. “Beyond a system that is easy to use, we were looking for reliable customer support and robust data security. As a large international fleet management provider, Mapon meets both our and our clients’ expectations in these important areas,” summarises Kari Lähivaara. “I recommend every transport company to implement Mapon camera systems” Protecting Drivers, One Vehicle at a Time Over the past few years, poor winter road maintenance, reckless driving by other road users, and various safety concerns have been growing issues for Lähivaara. Drivers have embraced the camera systems, knowing they provide crucial protection in accident disputes or ‘one word against another’ situations. “It’s reassuring to know that our employer supports us and ensures legal protection when unexpected incidents happen on the road,” says Lähivaara driver Nate Ruuskanen. Want to protect your fleet and employees while also cutting costs? Get in touch with us, and we’ll help you find the perfect camera system for your needs!

Marija Assereckova

17. Feb 2025

Why Every Driver Needs Fleet Cameras in Vehicles

When you hear about fleet cameras, you might think they only exist to help managers monitor drivers. But here’s the truth – fleet cameras actually benefit drivers just as much, if not more! From protecting against false accident claims to improving job security and even increasing pay, having a camera in the vehicle can make drivers’ lives easier and safer. Whether you’re a truck driver, delivery driver, or working in agriculture or cold chain logistics, a fleet camera can benefit employees across various industries. So, let’s jump straight into the most important benefits of fleet camera systems for those behind the wheel! Mapon dashboard interface showcasing a footage archive for selected vehicles, drivers, and dates Cameras Offer More Than Just Footage – They Provide Protection Every experienced driver knows that accidents aren’t always straightforward. Some people will do anything to avoid responsibility, from exaggerating the truth to outright fabricating events. Worse yet, staged accidents – where fraudsters intentionally cause collisions to scam insurance companies – are becoming more common. One such tactic is brake checking, where a smaller vehicle suddenly slams on the brakes in front of a truck, forcing the driver into a collision. Studies estimate that insurance fraud, including staged accidents, accounts for up to 15% of all global damages, with fraudulent claims in some regions reaching millions of euros annually. If drivers and companies get caught in the middle of such an accident, they can easily find themselves drowning in legal trouble. A high-quality dash cam eliminates doubt, recording every moment leading up to and following an accident. Instead of being forced to argue your case with an insurance company, you can simply provide video proof of what actually happened. Whether it’s an aggressive driver cutting you off, an impatient pedestrian darting into traffic, or a reckless cyclist ignoring the rules of the road, your dash cam ensures you aren’t left alone to prove your innocence. Job Security and Fair Treatment Accidents on the road are just one thing to worry about. Sometimes, false accusations can come from customers or passengers. Delivery drivers, truckers, and those working in waste management are often at the mercy of customer complaints – for example, people often assume their waste container was skipped, while the real issue is the placement – when the container is in the wrong spot, the truck simply can’t reach it. Without reliable evidence, a simple misunderstanding can escalate into disciplinary action, lost wages, or even job termination. Dash cams provide an unbiased record of one’s driving habits and actions on the road. If a customer falsely claims that a driver was rude or reckless, the footage tells the real story. For example, a Latvian moving company Vedam.lv uses dashcams, side cameras and rearview cameras to uphold the company’s good reputation. The Vedam.lv CEO Gatis Rūtiņš says: “If a customer says they haven’t received their order, we can use the camera footage to prove that we delivered everything and nothing was damaged.” Read more about Vedam.lv experience with fleet camera systems! In industries where reputation means everything, having cameras on board can protect drivers from unjust penalties and safeguard their careers. Many companies also use footage to reward good drivers, offering incentives, bonuses, and promotions to those with a clean record. If the company evaluates employees based on performance, fleet cameras could actually help drivers climb the ranks, secure better routes, or even earn a pay raise. Safer Roads, Less Stress, and More Control Professional driving is already stressful enough. Long hours, unpredictable traffic, and the pressure to meet deadlines can take a toll. Adding the worry of being blamed for an accident or facing an unfair complaint only makes things worse. A fleet camera provides an extra layer of security, allowing drivers to focus on the road without the constant fear of “what if?” hanging over their heads. In some cases, simply having a visible dash cam is enough to deter reckless drivers and road rage incidents. In many situations, seeing a camera recording one’s actions is already enough to prevent people from cutting you off, tailgating, or attempting dangerous manoeuvres. If an incident does occur, the presence of a camera often leads to faster resolutions with law enforcement and insurance companies since clear video evidence speeds up investigations and eliminates unnecessary back-and-forth. Dash Cams: A Tool for Safety, Not Surveillance Dash cams are often misunderstood as tools for constant surveillance, but in reality, they are just tools. Their impact depends entirely on how they are used. Modern fleet camera systems are designed to enhance safety, provide protection, and ensure compliance, not to micromanage drivers. In practice, continuous monitoring isn’t feasible or necessary. Fleet managers don’t have the time or resources to watch live streams constantly, and there is no business case for deep surveillance. Instead, dash cams act as a safeguard, providing recorded footage when needed – whether for accident investigations, dispute resolution, or ensuring fair treatment of drivers. When used responsibly, fleet cameras serve as an ally, not an intrusion. A Smart Investment That Pays Off in More Ways Than One The best way for drivers to see fleet cameras is as insurance for their careers. Such devices become invaluable in situations where recorded footage is the only protection against financial or legal trouble. As for a company, the cost of a high-quality dash cam or a whole camera system is minimal compared to the potential losses from an accident dispute, insurance claim, or false accusation.  All in all, there is no reason why drivers and fleet managers should look at cameras differently – for everyone working in the transportation industry, fleet cameras are their personal advocates on the road, providing essential evidence, security, and peace of mind. Mapon Is Ready to Protect Your Fleet We at Mapon know that safety matters most on the road. That’s why we provide tailored camera solutions designed to protect drivers and businesses across all industries. Contact us today for a personalised quote and ensure your fleet is equipped for a safer future.

Marija Assereckova

12. Feb 2025

Safe Roads, Happy Homes: How Fleet Tech Guards Drivers

It’s 5:30 AM. Someone kisses his sleeping daughter’s forehead before heading out to the truck. A steaming thermos of coffee passes from loving hands – a daily ritual repeated every morning for the past years. “Drive safe,” whispers a voice carrying the weight of love and concern. This scene plays out in countless homes across Europe. Every morning, professional drivers set out to the roads, carrying not just cargo but the responsibility of returning to their loved ones. Road Safety Week 2024: Trends & Opportunities EU statistics on road crashes demonstrating the trend for fatalities Road Safety Week reminds us of this responsibility. But let’s be honest – every week should be a safety week when it comes to driving. Last year alone, more than 20,000 road fatalities occurred across the EU, and more than 1500 people lost their lives due to road accidents in Great Britain. The number of serious accidents that didn’t end with fatalities is way bigger. And behind each statistic is a story, a family, and a life that changed forever. Wherever they work, drivers face real and relentless challenges: unpredictable weather, complicated legislation, and the constant pressure to meet deadlines. Such requirements demand superhuman focus, hour after hour, day after day. But here’s the good news: we’re not in the 1970s anymore. Technology has evolved to become a genuine partner in safety, not just a checkbox for compliance. Modern fleet management systems act like an additional pair of eyes on the road. They don’t just record what went wrong – they help prevent incidents before they happen. From personalised driver coaching to fatigue monitoring systems, technology now serves as a guardian angel for drivers. How Mapon Clients Improve Their Fleet Safety Take Bertschi AG, one of our clients that uses a wide range of Mapon solutions. The company not only tracks driving behaviour parameters but also puts those metrics into practice. By using data provided by driver behaviour monitoring, Bertschi AG can tailor its behaviour-based safety training specifically to each driver’s needs. Personalised driver training that targets main areas for improvement (for example, harsh cornering or speeding) contributes to reducing road accidents and fatalities. And this is just one example of how modern fleet management solutions can help businesses enhance their internal culture and improve processes. Check out other Mapon case studies to learn more! Mapon Solutions for Fleet Safety This is a view of the Mapon platform demonstrating the driver behaviour monitoring solution. It shows instances of harsh braking and acceleration. At Mapon, every solution we offer is designed with safety in mind. Here are some examples of how our clients use Mapon tools to create safer roads for everyone. GPS fleet monitoring goes far beyond simple location tracking. It provides real-time insights into speed and routes taken on different trips. The monitoring data can be used to help drivers avoid high-risk areas and accident-prone zones. Driver behaviour monitoring serves as a friendly co-pilot, offering analysis of driving patterns. It alerts both managers and drivers about potentially dangerous habits like harsh acceleration, sudden braking, or sharp cornering. The acquired data can be used for personalised coaching, and some companies even run performance competitions for their employees, achieving remarkable driving score improvements. Fuel management systems contribute to safety in ways many don’t realise. Beyond detecting fuel theft, they identify unusual fuel consumption patterns that might indicate mechanical issues requiring immediate attention. A vehicle burning too much fuel could have problems that compromise safety – from tyre pressure issues to more serious concerns that could lead to breakdowns in dangerous locations. This is a collage of the Mapon platform views demonstrating recorded camera events and instances of overspeeding Fleet camera systems provide an extra set of eyes on the road. Modern cameras ensure access to both livestreams and video records, allowing managers to check what’s happening on the road anytime, anywhere. Cabin-facing cameras help identify signs of driver fatigue or distraction, while outside-facing cameras combined with cabin monitors eliminate blind spots during manoeuvres in congested areas. Remote tachograph download makes it easy to comply with EU regulations for driving and rest times. With automatic data downloads and a wide range of real-time notifications, fleet managers can ensure that their drivers are well-rested and mindful of their surroundings. Together, these technologies create a safety ecosystem that protects not just the driver and vehicle but everyone sharing the road. The result? Reduced vehicle wear-and-tear, lower insurance costs, and, most importantly – more drivers returning safely to their families each day. Fleet Management Provides Peace of Mind At the end of the day, road safety isn’t just about keeping an eye on speed  – it’s about building a sustainable driving culture that eliminates human errors and fatalities. So, let’s not wait for the next Road Safety Week to take action. Every driver deserves to return home safely, and every business deserves the benefits of a safety-first culture. Need guidance on building a safer fleet? Contact our team, and we’ll find the best fleet management solutions to protect your people and your company!

Marija Assereckova

19. Nov 2024

R GRUPA: Mapon Saves the Most Precious Thing We Have – Time

The larger a company’s fleet, the more solutions are needed for its management – especially if the fleet includes not only light vehicles or trucks, but also industry-specific machinery. One such industry is forestry, which encompasses much more than just cutting trees. It also includes forest planting, care, maintenance, harvesting, and soil renewal – all these stages of forestry require different techniques and equipment. The forestry company R GRUPA currently has more than 150 equipment units, most of which are connected to the Mapon platform. What made the company choose Mapon as its fleet management provider? What solutions are used for different purposes, and how can the information obtained from the Mapon platform be used for more efficient work? We sat down with Krišjānis Caune, the Head of Marketing and Communications at R GRUPA, to find answers to all these questions. Mapon Has the Most Comprehensive Solutions for Large Companies Krišjānis Caune, Head of Marketing and Communicationsat  R GRUPA, talks with Mapon representatives  R GRUPA’s fleet includes light vehicles used by administrative employees and forestry foremen, freight transport, logging machinery, as well as specific equipment, such as wood chippers. Each unit requires its own approach to data acquisition and analysis. “We are a manufacturing company and productivity is very important to us. To be able to improve it, we analyse a huge amount of key information, including fleet data. When we realised that the company needed to improve in this area, we did market research to understand what solution would best suit our needs. Mapon won because it offers the most versatile solutions that work for all our vehicle and equipment categories,” –  the R GRUPA representative explains the decision to choose Mapon. 6 Mapon Solutions for R GRUPA’s Fleet R GRUPA uses the following Mapon solutions for fleet management: GPS tracking for cars, trucks, and wood chippers Fuel rods for trucks Remote tachograph data download CAN data reading for forest machinery Tachogram – the tachograph data platform A camera system for the wood chipper Don’t Just Get the Data – Use It Properly Krišjānis Caune explains that having the tracking solutions is only part of the job. The most important thing is to understand what to do with the obtained data. For example, it is crucial to choose the most suitable route for cargo transport. Different data is used for light vehicles that drive over a wider area or for harvesting and logging machinery that works more locally, in specific regions. The same applies to fuel monitoring data. Differences in consumption between newer and older machinery are used in productivity calculations and job planning. See Deviations From the Norm Immediately Implementing fuel monitoring solutions can quickly and significantly reduce consumption by detecting theft or an inefficient vehicle. R GRUPA, however, is more focused on regular, long-term monitoring, which lets them keep track of accurate average indicators. The company has an innovative approach to fuel consumption management, as well as a positive employee culture, so fuel monitoring is mostly used to notice deviations from normal consumption and understand how to improve the situation. Fleet Management is Similar to Aviation An R GRUPA employee uses the Mapon fleet management platform When it comes to fleet management, R GRUPA takes note from aviation, where safety and flawless work with data is vital. Krišjānis Caune explains that the company backs up data records – both fuel management and remote tachograph download solutions serve this purpose. They help to ensure security and accuracy by minimising human error. Management Solutions Also Affect Productivity R GRUPA’s management is confident that thorough compliance with tachograph rules is a key productivity indicator for every driver. A rested person is much more productive while overworking reduces it drastically. A driver’s productivity on the road is closely related to safety – that’s why R GRUPA emphasises that it monitors tachograph data primarily to make sure that no driver has driven too much. The solution also helps to discover which drivers are currently under-worked and can be assigned extra trips. As it’s essential to comply with the legal requirements, R GRUPA has also set tachograph alerts for calibration and data download deadlines. Planning Routes – Easier With Mapon R GRUPA currently has more than 150 equipment units, most of which are connected to the Mapon platform Krišjānis Caune names the ability to analyse daily activities as one of the biggest advantages of using Mapon solutions. “We analyse not only to control but to become more aware of what we’re capable of”. Each fleet management solution contributes to a total result daily. Route planning is one obvious example – what once looked like a theoretical instruction to get from A to B is now a data-driven decision. The company carries out detailed route planning, communicates with drivers, and develops the optimal route. Route maps are also produced and can be used by anyone who drives the company’s vehicles. R GRUPA is aware that a route that looks good on paper may not always be drivable, for example, due to weather conditions. To make the most of drivers’ time,  colleagues in the logistics department and drivers need to maintain good communication to make adjustments. It also positively impacts drivers’ pay as no hours are wasted. “Mapon saves the most precious thing we have – time. And if we can save time, then we can figure out what to do with it – the main thing is to actually free up that time”. What Do Drivers Think About Mapon Solutions? R GRUPA tracks a variety of vehicles, including trucks Fleet management starts in the vehicle and continues in the office – and both stages are closely related, so all employees must understand how and why the company uses specific telematics solutions. R GRUPA points out that while drivers haven’t extensively commented on Mapon solutions, it does not necessarily mean they do not understand or need them. On the contrary, one gets used to good things very quickly. If you don’t think too much about using something, it means that you have gotten used to the solution and its positive impact on your daily life. In work and life, we are much more likely to discuss the things that get in the way rather than highlight the good aspects – the same applies to fleet management. Krišjānis Caune compares the relationship between vehicle drivers and fleet managers to professional sports: “We can compare drivers to professional athletes, and managers to coaches. We ask drivers to remember one thing – to insert the card in the tachograph when they get into the vehicle. Afterwards, we can work with the drivers to see what has been done during the day and how to do it better. We are like coaches talking to athletes about ways to improve their performance.” R GRUPA also emphasises that drivers are not obliged to analyse the data of the Mapon platform – this is the administration’s task. Mapon Solutions – Not Only for the Transport Department Fleet management solutions provide a wealth of information. That’s why the Mapon platform is used by different departments to analyse all the data and provide actionable insights. At R GRUPA, the greatest demand for Mapon solutions is in the transport department. The next structure that also frequently uses these solutions is the logistics department. The harvesting and logging department also benefits from Mapon, as they too have to operate with movement or transport. In general, all R GRUPA employees who use fleet units tend to look at the data provided by Mapon to get reliable reports on driving routes and timelines. This information is also important for accounting, which uses Mapon solutions to make sure that every litre of fuel is accounted for correctly. Innovation Is Easier with Mapon R GRUPA implements innovations and follows sustainability trends The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many companies to digitise processes and provide reliable, remote access to documents, meetings, and equipment monitoring. The latter is especially relevant for companies that use equipment in remote locations, including outside their base country. To monitor their wood chipping equipment, which R GRUPA calls a real mobile factory, the company decided to run an experiment – they had several cameras installed on one machine. Thanks to those cameras, it’s now possible to connect to the vehicle at any time and check the safety and real-time productivity remotely. Other sophisticated machinery is also connected to Mapon solutions – for example, fuel monitoring with CAN data is very useful for forest equipment, which R GRUPA uses extensively in its daily work. Krišjānis Caune even compares such technology to spaceships – while previously such complicated devices could only be seen on television, now almost equally advanced equipment is at work right here in our forests. In the future, it is expected that such machines will be operated remotely, without a driver. Even if this scenario comes true, fleet management solutions will remain relevant because they let you make sure that work is going on as it should, from anywhere in the world. What if Telematics Solutions Disappear? We end our conversation with R GRUPA on a humorous note and ask what would happen if telematics solutions suddenly disappeared? Krišjānis Caune answers with confidence: “I would compare it to the apocalypse. We are so used to different technological solutions that telematics is as valuable to us as the internet itself. What would happen if both suddenly disappeared? We would survive, sure – but it would be very difficult”. If your company also needs a wide range of fleet management solutions, book a consultation with one of Mapon’s Client Project Managers or contact [email protected]!

Marija Assereckova

05. Jun 2024

Vedam.lv: Fleet Camera Systems Help Resolve Unclear Situations

Successful fleet management should be data-based, and videos are one of the most reliable sources of information. That’s why capturing what’s happening around your vehicle using fleet camera systems has become one of the most sought-after solutions in the Mapon range. Vedam.lv, a Latvian moving company, confirms the benefits of camera systems. Vedam.lv has a fleet of 23 vans, 15 of which operate in Latvia and 8 in Estonia. We invited Vedam.lv CEO Gatis Rūtiņš to talk about successful implementation of cameras in fleet management and what to pay attention to when choosing camera solutions. Why choose Mapon camera systems? The CEO of Vedam.lv tells the Mapon team about his company’s experience with fleet camera systems Gatis says that before working with Mapon Vedam.lv had tried another camera supplier, but the experience was unsuccessful. “There was a moment when we really needed one video to prove our driver’s innocence in the crash, but there was no footage available. It turned out that the camera hadn’t saved the data for months, and we were left without an important piece of evidence”, recalls Gatis. This case also became a reason to look for another provider, and eventually, the company chose Mapon. “What attracted us to Mapon camera solutions was the quality and clear answers to all our questions“, says Gatis. Which employees watch the footage? Video footage recorded by Mapon fleet cameras can also be viewed from a smartphone Vedam.lv has a quality control specialist who reviews footage as needed. This employee usually logs in to the Mapon platform 3-5 times a week to watch the camera footage. To ensure full insight into the footage and to know what is happening on the road with Vedam.lv vehicles, the quality control specialist views the footage both randomly and based on customer comments. Cameras promote safety Vedam.lv points out that the company installed cameras primarily to improve security. Vedam.lv takes a holistic view of safety – it includes the safety of goods and vehicles, as well as the safety of employees and other road users. All Vedam.lv employees take security seriously. The company employs around 30 drivers, who are mostly positive about the installation of cameras. Gatis notes that attitudes towards any form of monitoring, including cameras, are strongly influenced by how management explains to employees its decision to start using such solutions. Vedam.lv focused on how cameras contribute to employee safety, for example, by allowing employees to prove their innocence in controversial situations. Vedam.lv director Gatis Rūtiņš visiting Mapon And what are the controversial situations? It’s not just about accidents or insurance claims. In Vedam.lv’s experience, there have been cases where a customer reported that they had not received part of an order, but the camera footage showed that the full order had been delivered to the customer’s address. Thanks to the camera systems and the footage, the company was able to justify its employees and maintain a good reputation. “It is very important that the camera system works smoothly. If a customer says they haven’t received their order, we can use the camera footage to prove that we delivered everything and nothing was damaged,” says Gatis. Camera systems are also useful for careful and safe driving. One incident Gatis recalls during the conversation is driving in a narrow space. The head of the company’s technical department uses the cameras to check blind spots and avoid vehicle damage. To do this, he can connect to a live stream using the smartphone and see how much further the driver can turn. What cameras does Vedam.lv use? A Mapon fleet camera installed on a Vedam.lv cargo minibus The company chose a set of six cameras, with cameras on the side, front, and rear of the vehicles. This comprehensive system allows them to see the load compartment, the road, the sides, and the interior of the vehicle. Vedam.lv took their vehicles to Mapon’s garage to install the cameras. Gatis remembers the installation experience very positively: “I would like to make a special mention of Mapon’s camera installer – he is the right person in the right place, knows what he is talking about, knows what he is doing, can answer questions and find solutions.” We’ll continue working with Mapon The CEO of Vedam.lv wraps up our conversation with positive feedback on Mapon. “Overall, on a scale of five, I would rate our cooperation 5+. Everything is always on time; you can call managers and get answers. Comments are listened to, any difficulties are addressed. We plan to install more cameras in our fleet, and we will do it with Mapon!” Want your vehicles and employees to be safe at all times too? Contact our team and we’ll suggest camera systems tailored to your needs!

Marija Assereckova

13. Nov 2024

Avers: Fleet Monitoring is The Key to Peace of Mind and Safety

Ukrainian company Avers has been working in the field of logistics and various auto services for more than thirty years. Since 2012 Avers has been actively cooperating with Mapon – it is not only our client but also one of the first partners distributing our solutions in Ukraine and Poland. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Avers continued to work even under wartime conditions. The cooperation with Mapon has also endured – thanks to Avers, our company is still well-represented in the Ukrainian transport market. We met with Sviatoslav Korostelov, the head of Avers, to discuss what it’s like to do business under war conditions, and why companies need fleet monitoring solutions. Transport Business During the War Watch the video to learn how Avers operates in challenging circumstances and how Mapon solutions are helping the company and Ukraine! How Avers Implemented Fleet Monitoring Avers works in the field of transport services, logistics, and sales of various auto products. At the moment, the company’s corporate fleet includes about 15 vehicles, which are used for cargo delivery. The company’s main focus is now on providing various transport services to other enterprises and promoting Mapon solutions as our partner. Avers was founded in 1993, and for many years the company has been closely cooperating with the Baltic region, working with various companies, including those from Latvia. This is how Avers crossed paths with Mapon – Sviatoslav recalls that Mapon was once recommended to him by another client of our company. Back then, it wasn’t immediately clear that Mapon’s solutions could be used to build a partner business – but over time, the value of fleet management for all kinds of businesses became obvious. “I thought it was a cool idea to be able to monitor a fleet of vehicles. It’s important for me to have access to information. Heating sensors, electricity consumption sensors are great things. I think it’s wrong to have water running as much as you want, light bulbs burning nonstop. And I know there are a lot of people like me – people who value investment, who follow the rules. Mapon’s solutions allow people like me to live and work peacefully.” Peace of Mind, Not Just Savings Sviatoslav Korostelov, CEO of Avers, talking to the Mapon team at the Mapon office Sviatoslav notes that the big advantage of Mapon is that everyone can find how to use it to suit their needs. Solutions and integrations can be tailored to the specifics of a particular business and fleet. For example, companies working with truck transport should connect their accounting to Mapon to quickly calculate drivers’ salaries based on hours worked. Another important aspect is fuel consumption control. For trucks, a single refuelling can cost several thousand euros, and if a fleet has 20 vehicles and each one is drained of fuel, the losses can be huge. Sviatoslav emphasises that although saving money is a significant plus, for him Mapon’s main advantage lies elsewhere. “At the end of the day, when you glance at the monitor and see that all the cars are marked in red – that brings me peace of mind because it means all my vehicles are at the parking lot.  For example, we have a rule that all vehicles must be parked after 9 pm. Before Mapon, we used to take one’s word for it. Or we would call and ask the driver where he was. But sometimes the driver just didn’t answer the phone. And in the morning, he said everything was fine. Then the accountant had to find all these violations by kilometrage, it was all very difficult. When we connected our fleet to the Mapon platform, I finally realised that everything was under control, and I felt calm. “I’m Willing to Look After My Property” The Mapon team interviews Sviatoslav Korostelov at the Mapon Riga office At Avers, line managers use Mapon’s solutions, and all drivers are informed that the company has monitoring systems in place. Here’s what Sviatoslav says about the initial adaptation teething troubles. “Of course, there were some troubles at the beginning. We’ve all sometimes wanted to do several things at the same time, even during working hours. So I remember the amazement when I showed someone that yesterday he was driving to the office and suddenly he drove off 15 km to the right, then 30 km to the left and then stopped for another half an hour. Then explanations ensued, people said that they have one relative living here, another there, and that they needed to pick something up. After that, of course, employees remember this experience and realise that we look after our property and we are ready to do it again and again”. How Can You Find a Car in an Emergency? When war broke out in Ukraine, Avers had to instantly adapt and figure out how to rescue the 200 vehicles associated with the company at the time. Thanks to Mapon’s reliable GPS fleet tracking systems, they were able to find abandoned and stolen vehicles, including expensive agricultural equipment, harvesters worth hundreds of thousands of euros, and even ambulances. Mapon Helps Fight Car Thefts A view of the Mapon platform demonstrating the GPS monitoring solution In Ukraine, Avers is still working with many taxi fleets, and one unusual way taxi companies use Mapon solutions is to fight car thefts. When the Mapon app alerts drivers that their car is leaving, they take the second key and follow the stolen car. Then, they wait for the thief to stop, go to the WC or shop, unlock the car with the second key, and drive away. As confronting the criminal can be risky, drivers find their vehicles thanks to Mapon and just take them back. Correlate Monitoring Costs with the Risk of Losses According to Sviatoslav, people often don’t want to pay a relatively small amount of money to monitor a vehicle, but they are willing to pay even more for a subscription to a football channel or some other less important purchase. That said, a truck can cost €100,000 and carry a million worth of goods – from this perspective, spending on reliable monitoring is more than justified. Sviatoslav concludes our conversation with the words: “I adhere to the ‘better safe than sorry’ principle. The company equips its employees with cars for work, and the employees know that if they use this car to go about their business at the weekend, and this wasn’t agreed upon previously, there will be questions on Monday. And this possibility of control gives me peace of mind – which is much more valuable than money”. If you too want to be completely sure that your fleet is safe, contact our team, and we will prepare a personalised quote for your company!

Marija Assereckova

07. Nov 2024

Mapon + flespi: Connect Any Device to Our Platform

Will my device connect to your platform? – this is one of the most important questions to clarify before subscribing to any fleet management solution. Given the competitive and fast-paced nature of today’s business world, losing time and money because of compatibility issues is a luxury companies can’t afford. No matter what devices you’re using, we can integrate them seamlessly. With Mapon and flespi, compatibility issues are a thing of the past – read on to learn how we achieve this. Mapon Focuses on Leading Devices As a fleet management software provider, Mapon focuses on native support for high-performing, well-known telematics devices. We guarantee that our platform will integrate smoothly with devices produced by the following manufacturers: Teltonika Queclink Ruptela Suntech Digital Matter These manufacturers were specifically selected due to the diverse features and use cases their devices provide, ensuring that we meet a wide range of client needs. We also recommend our versatile in-house device, Mapon Expert. Its broad range of features suits both typical and tailored use cases. But what if you use niche devices from smaller brands? Thanks to our integration with flespi, you can still use the Mapon platform and enjoy the full functionality of our fleet management solutions. Flespi Bridges the Gap A view of the Mapon platform demonstrating how to connect the flespi integration to the user’s account Flespi serves as a bridge between Mapon and devices that our platform does not support natively. It provides unified data communication via REST API, regardless of the device’s protocol. The data from your telematics device is then stored in the standardised JSON format.  Why flespi? Flespi is a versatile back-end platform for telematics that allows companies to connect and control a variety of devices. From fleets of large vehicles to micro-mobility options like scooters and bikes, flespi offers a flexible and scalable solution for monitoring and tracking assets. With its extensive support for telematics devices from over 150 manufacturers, flespi ensures seamless integration and reliable data collection. Whether you’re in fleet management, stationary asset monitoring, or usage-based insurance, flespi provides the tools you need to connect almost any device and collect data for your business operations. Key Benefits of the Mapon-flespi Integration Flexibility Without Complexity: With flespi, the Mapon platform can support a wide range of devices without extra time or financial investment from clients or our developers. Comprehensive Solution: Clients can rely on the Mapon platform for industry-standard device support, while flespi ensures that data from most other devices flows smoothly and consistently as well, filling the gap for clients who utilise a wide range of devices. Scalability and Future-Proofing: As clients grow or add different types of devices, they can rely on flespi for seamless integration without requiring Mapon to develop new protocols for each new device they adopt. A Deeper Look at flespi A view of the Mapon platform demonstrating devices that can be activated or deactivated for the flespi integration With its many features and functionalities, flespi is a powerful platform that makes data integration and management easy. flespi’s key capabilities include: Wide device integration: it’s possible to connect a wide range of telematics devices, from GPS trackers to other sensors or Internet-of-things devices. Data aggregation: depending on the devices connected, you can view data about GPS location, fuel levels, speed, temperature, etc. Normalised Data Access: flespi provides access to normalised data via API, making it easy for developers to work with the data. Data Forwarding: You can stream data to third-party platforms, such as AWS, Azure, GCP, or fleet management solutions. Device Management: flespi offers tools for configuring and managing devices over the air. Debugging and Troubleshooting: The platform provides specialised tools for detecting errors, diagnosing connectivity issues, and analysing raw traffic. Data Visualization: flespi allows you to create live dashboards to monitor key metrics in real time. Interested? Here Is What You Need to Do If you want to connect your tracking devices to the Mapon platform via the flespi integration, follow these instructions: Sign up for a Mapon account if you haven’t already Set up your flespi account and choose a subscription plan (you can start with a free account with full functionality for up to 10 devices) Go through the technical steps to make sure your devices start sending data to the platform Your client manager will enable the flespi integration for your company Add an integration account on the Mapon platform and activate devices That’s it – you can now enjoy all the benefits of Mapon, as flespi will safely transport your data to our fleet management software. Don’t Let Your Devices Limit You – Use Mapon via flespi The integration between Mapon and flespi offers a powerful solution for fleet management companies that need flexibility, scalability, and a comprehensive set of features. Whatever your telematics device, you needn’t worry about connectivity issues. Thanks to our integration with flespi, Mapon has the right tools and technologies to connect more than 1270 device types or more than 150+ protocols. Reach out to our team to ensure fully-fledged access to all Mapon perks via flespi!

Marija Assereckova

23. Oct 2024