Auto major Tata Motors has joined hands with UK-based Microlise to launch advanced telematics and fleet management services in the Indian market.
Under the partnership, which is for an initial period of five years, both sides intend to utilise their respective strengths to deliver services through Tata Fleetman platform, a vehicle management and tracking system, which the Mumbai-based auto major had launched in 2012.
While Microlise will provide the technology and solutions, Tata Motors will integrate them in its commercial vehicles and utilise its reach for service delivery.
“We have been trying to bring new technologies to the Indian automotive market. With this motive in mind, we created Tata Fleetman vehicle tracking solutions in 2012. Now with Microlise in tow, we intend to usher in latest technology in this segment,” Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles Business Unit Executive Director Ravi Pisharody told reporters.
Tata Motors would install the advanced tracking system in its trucks above 16 tonnes category in a phased manner, starting with its premium Prima truck range, he added.
The partners would also service aftermarket via offering the service to fleet owners across the country, Mr. Pisharody said.
“Besides, the partners would also offer the existing fleet owners to upgrade to the new advanced fleet management solutions by paying a nominal amount,” he added.
Currently, around 4,500 trucks use Tata Fleetman service around the country.
When asked about the potential of telematics and fleet management services in the Indian market, Mr. Pisharody said: “The current market for 6 tonnes and above trucks currently stands at around 25,000 units per month. It is just not penetrated as yet. There is huge potential for this segment to grow in the country.”
Commenting on the partnership, Microlise Managing Director Nadeem Raza said the new Tata Fleetman system would help in addressing the requirements of Indian transport companies.
