A FLEET NewsNet round-up of the latest labour/money saving and security enhancing devices to hit the market.

Alcohol breath indicator

FLEET operators can now test their drivers with a new portable breathalyser, currently being used across the USA and Europe. Similar to those operated by the police, the Alcohol Breath Indicator (ABI) gives a reading within three seconds and shows how many micrograms of alcohol are in the blood stream. The ABI claims to provide an accurate test reading of +/- 10%.
The current legal limit for driving is 35 micrograms per 100ml but even minimal traces of alcohol will show up on the indicator, even the morning after a heavy night on the town.
ABI provides five detachable mouthpieces which can be exchanged after every use, giving fleet executives the opportunity to test several people at any given time. The device, which comes equipped with a carry case, is small enough to fit inside the pocket and is easily transportable.

  • The ABI costs £110 and is available by calling 01920 877 373. Alternatively email abi@electrotest.f9.co.uk

    Flexysafe

    AS thousands of laptop computers are stolen from vehicles every year, fleet drivers can now protect their valuables with Lamb Engineering's Flexysafe. Available in three models, the portable safe, which fits into a boot, has been independently tested by the police and Sold Secure, the Locksmiths' testing body.
    Prices start at £94.67 for the Utility safe, which is bolted to a vehicle. Additional models include the Pro, which can be carried between the office and the car, and the Fleet, which is fitted to the car without using screws or bolts.

  • For details, log on to www.flexysafe.co.uk

    Halfords accessories

    UNTIDY fleet drivers have no excuse for a disorderly car following Halford's launch of a range of accessories designed for business travellers. The company has introduced drinks holders, note pads, torches, power points and coat hooks, all designed to make life on the road easier.
    Fleet drivers will be especially interested in the seat organiser and boot hook. Both are designed to hold either A4 files, suitcases, briefcases or tool boxes securely in place.

  • Call 08457 626 625 for your nearest Halfords store

    AXXENT myo2

    Mobile workers can now plan their journeys with AA Routeplanner, get the latest traffic reports and check the news and weather on their Microsoft Pocket PC-powered Xda with myO2 – the new mobile assistant from O2 that provides web-based information specifically formulated for the Xda. Axxent Voice and Data Communications in association with O2 can provide businesses with the myO2 service enabling Xda users immediate online access to information allowing them to plan the working day ahead.

  • For details, call Axxent on 0208 329 4000

    Metasystems parking aid

    DRIVERS whose parking skills are below par could save hundreds of pounds with MetaSystems' new parking aid. Designed to attach to the rear number plate, the system automatically engages when the reverse gear is used, with intermittent beeps indicating how close the car is to a nearby object. Electronic sensors on the device can locate obstacles up to 1.5 metres away, either above or below the bumper.

  • Contact 01905 791 700. Cost is £199 including VAT and installation.

    Verilocation

    FLEET drivers using their company cars for alternative motives, beware, as companies are now able to track their drivers using a mobile phone signal. VeriLocation enables a company to type a mobile number on to a PC, which in turn shows a map indicating the location of the driver and as no special hardware is required the system can be viewed online.

  • To view a demonstration, log on to

    WIN a hand-held internet-ready computer and 12 months free line rental worth more than £500 from Axxent

    Mobile communications supplier Axxent Voice and Data Communications has teamed up with Fleet NewsNet to offer one lucky reader the chance to win an O2 Xda – an exclusive personal digital assistant that combines a Pocket PC and mobile GPRS phone.

    The Xda is designed to provide executives on the move with full-blown, high-speed, 'always-on' internet access, to let you stay abreast of the latest products and services available from Axxent at Offering more services than a standard PDA, Axxent has selected the O2 XDA as it can truly enhance customer service, allowing executives to communicate with customers, suppliers and colleagues, while away from the office.

    GPRS means that the connection is 'always-on' for email and web browsing while the MS Pocket PC operating system gives familiar MS Office functionality. Compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand the Xda's large, touch-sensitive colour screen helps deliver a highly useable solution.

  • To enter, simply log on before April 30, 2003 and register your details at www.axxent.co.uk quoting reference A01 for the chance to walk away with this 'must-have' gadget