Fleet software provider Mycompanyfleet has launched a new software module which allows company drivers to remotely log the condition of their vehicles through their mobile phones and other hand-held devices.

The new functionality, FleetAcumen Mobile, is an enhancement to Mycompanyfleet’s mainstream FleetAcumen fleet management system and has widespread applications for companies with grey fleet drivers, and both light and heavy commercial vehicle fleets.

Operating through any G3-enabled mobile phone or other hand-held devices such as PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant), FleetAcumen Mobile allows drivers to log on to the main fleet management system and report the condition of their vehicles online and in line with company guidelines.

This could cover areas such as the condition of tyres, auto-glass, fluid levels and other critical factors and meets duty of care requirements, at the same time completing an audit trail that provides the company with a clear-cut record in the event of a future event, such as a serious road traffic accident.

Where there is a defect with the vehicle, the driver can report the severity of its nature through his mobile phone and allow the fleet manager to book the vehicle in for servicing before the fault can become any worse.

“This new module allows remote vehicle condition and defect reporting through virtually any G3 mobile phone and most-hand held devices and provides the ability to instantly alert the fleet manager or transport department to any potential problems as soon as they arise,” said Andrew Leech, business manager at Mycompanyfleet, the automotive arm of HR software supplier NorthgateArinso.

“This will not only save time and money, but it will cut down the likelihood of vehicles being allowed out on the road with a potentially serious defect.

“For grey fleet drivers, it immediately provides a record that they have followed company guidelines in checking and reporting the condition of their vehicle or highlights where they have failed to do so,” he added.