Independent Trailers Included In Automatic RUC Calculations

In the latest, and very exciting, technology development project by Teletrac Navman, we have launched a new eRUC recorder to simplify RUC calculations on independent trailers. Thanks to product manager Richard Stanton and team, independent trailers are now a part of the automatic Teletrac Navman RUC management system – making vehicle tracking for RUC purposes much easier.

All vehicles powered by a fuel not taxed at source must pay Road User Charges (RUC), and that includes heavy trailers independent of prime movers. The root challenge that led to the development of the electronic distance recorder for independent trailers (EDR2) was the difficulty of accurately recording RUC on independent trailers. Seeing as RUC’s are charged based on the distance travelled, it is important to register when the trailer is not being used.

Because there is so much variability in fleets when it comes to trailer usage, an automatic and flexible solution was needed to correctly register trailer usage. An example of this can be seen in the logging industry where trucks travel to and from the logging site to the port to deliver logs. Seeing as the trailers are only in use when going to the port and stays stationary for the return trip – RUC should only be calculated for 50% of the distance travelled for that job.

Another consideration that Teletrac Navman took into account when developing the solution, was the importance of a self-powered device. This is because different trailers are wired up differently to the prime mover, so there is not one logical location where the device could get constant power supply from. In addition, fleet managers were not keen on having to interfere with the ABS, EBS and other systems through rewiring’s and adding more sensors.

Teletrac Navman took this, and other challenges reported by their Kiwi customers into consideration when they developed the new solution for independent heavy trailers. The device uses ground-breaking new technology developed right here in New Zealand. It is a self-contained, sealed device that generates power directly from the wheel’s rotation. There are no wires and no interference with the trailer’s other systems. Operators can self-install the device and use it as part of their Teletrac Navman RUC management solution.

“In the development stage of this solution, we spoke with our transport operator customers to get feedback on exactly what they needed - and this solution is the result of those insights. Automated RUC management is a very popular technology, and our customers wanted something they could easily install themselves, that was self-contained and self-powered. This device ticks all the boxes for a busy operator,” says Stanton.

For the purposes of RUC tracking for independent trailers based on wheel rotations, this new solution is the first of its kind on the market. It automates the RUC for the trailer in the same way as it does for the prime mover – making RUC calculation a seamless process for all parts of the fleet. The device uses all the same back-end systems and integrates all the automated processes. With this solution, we’ve filled a significant gap in RUC Management by listening to challenges experienced by fleet managers – and done something about it.

“Feedback from customers is that electronic RUC saves them hours of admin time and even brings in a steady flow of rebates for off-road travel. With the upcoming increases in Road User Charges, every kilometre left unclaimed represents even more lost value to a business. Staying on top of regular rebates also assists a business with its cashflow,” says Stanton.

The electronic distance recorder is already hotly demanded by customers, to provide them with a simple, fast and cost-effective way to manage Road User Charges for trailers. Get in touch with us to learn more about the solution and how it can assist your fleet.