Grundon is investing £750,000 in Samsara’s Connected Operations Platform over the coming three years, a key part of which is rolling out a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) led driver safety programme across its 300+-strong commercial fleet.
It is thought to be one of the first of the major waste companies to adopt the technology, which follows successful trials at two Grundon depots.
A key part of the rollout is Samsara’s Dual-Facing AI Dash Cams which provide instant feedback to drivers via AI-led in-cab audio alerts, enabling them to make corrections in real-time. The technology is designed to help drivers improve safe driving habits, encourage good behaviour and reduce incidents such as braking sharply or driving too close to the vehicle in front.
Cameras situated at the base of the windscreen monitor driver activity and capture high-definition footage. Connecting seamlessly to the vehicles existing 360o cameras (up to 10 cameras per vehicle), they both enhance driver vision and provide up-to-date routing data to the transport team.
Drivers can also download the Samsara App, enabling them to monitor their own behaviour using a points-based system.
Chris Double, Grundon’s Regional Operations Manager, said: “Driver and vehicle safety is of paramount importance and we firmly believe this investment will help promote safer driving.
“During the trials and training period, Samsara’s Dual-Facing AI Dash Cams received very positive feedback from our drivers, who were both enthusiastic and engaged with the whole process. It’s also important to note that having this technology also helps us acknowledge and reward good performance. For instance, if a driver has to take sudden avoiding action due to someone unexpectedly stepping into the road, then we can shine a light on their efforts which otherwise would have gone unnoticed.”
Over a six-month period, the two Samsara trials showed an impressive 71% reduction in detected events and also demonstrated increased fuel efficiencies as drivers were encouraged to optimise fuel efficiency and minimise idling. Once in place fleet-wide, such measures are expected to reduce fuel costs by around £220,000 per year.
Philip van der Wilt, SVP and General Manager EMEA at Samsara, added, “Our Connected Operations Platform allows essential physical operation businesses like Grundon to have a single view of their critical operational data and manage their entire fleet with real-time data-driven decisions. The measurable impact of Samsara’s technology in Grundon’s six-month trial is a testament to our focus on innovation and safety. We look forward to working with Grundon for many years to help them continue innovating in their industry.”
Work on the three year phased roll-out of the Samsara Platform across Grundon’s entire commercial fleet began this month (July) alongside a dedicated driver training programme.