NORTH Lanarkshire Council is using a Tracker system to monitor vehicle usage as part of a pilot project.

The authority is fitting its 209 vehicles, which includes vans, with the Tracker Reporter Vehicle Asset Management (VAM) system.

The move aims to improve efficiency and reduce carbon monoxide emissions but also allows for the authority’s fleet management team to maintain direct contact with all vehicles, improve route planning, increase personal security for drivers and improve health and safety practices.

Transport services manager Donald Morrice said: ‘The system has been active for several weeks and we’re already seeing major advantages, especially in identifying areas where vehicles are left idling and wasting council money.’