A range of new logistical and travel management services will be available to fleet managers when the EU’s global positioning navigational satellite Galileo is launched.

Now the system’s Euro 3.6 billion funding has been approved, focus is turning to what benefits it will bring to motorists.

A recent conference, staged by the centre-right European People’s Party-European Democrats (EPP-ED) group, was told how Galileo’s navigational signals will help fleets manage and monitor staff who travel by car.

In addition, the new satellite system, which should be operation within five years, will help manage car crime as it will be possible for a vehicle to be immobilised if unauthorised movements are detected.

It could also help companies direct staff swiftly to particular locations, for instance locating gas or water leaks, and electricity network damage.