Contract hire and leasing companies are uncertain about how best to adopt and apply telematics amid increased customer demand, according to recent research.

The research conducted with 20 of the leading contract hire and leasing companies by telematics provider In-Car Cleverness, found that four out of five are facing increased demands from corporate clients to deliver telemetry solutions that help them control fleet running costs.

However, there is uncertainty about how best to offer this technology to customers.

The challenge is how to effectively manage an often diverse mix of customers with differing needs, operational requirements and timings.

In-Car Cleverness, part of the Accident Exchange Group of Companies, was launched at last October’s Munich Telematics Update conference.

It is currently exploring a number of opportunities across various markets and recently commenced a pilot with a leading UK-based leasing provider.

Tim Eaves, commercial director of In-Car Cleverness, said: “In the on-going economic climate, in which managers are being asked to squeeze ever greater cost reductions and efficiency from fleets while, at the same time, providing improved safety and support to drivers, technology has a pivotal role to play. Against this backdrop, pressure from corporate customers is only going to increase.”