8 Technology Offerings to Simplify Transportation Tasks
Software that streamlines data collection, onboard Wi-Fi, fuel efficiency products, and an artificial intelligence-powered child-check device are just some of the options to look for in 2018. Also, on the horizon: wearable tech for drivers.
Nicole Schlosser・Former Executive Editor
January 3, 2018
3 min to read
Software that streamlines data collection, onboard Wi-Fi, fuel efficiency products, and an artificial intelligence-powered child-check device are just some of the options to look for in 2018. Also, on the horizon: wearable tech for drivers.
Fleet Management Software Features Simpler Navigation
FleetWave is designed to simplify fleet, driver, and maintenance management, from the financial overview of vehicles and equipment, to policy and supervision of drivers, technicians, and shops.
The system’s new interface includes a redeveloped login experience and aesthetic improvements to the core stylesheet that is used throughout the fleet system. The new experience retains all of FleetWave’s existing functionality, but includes a number of technological enhancements, including a new login system that is compatible with any desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone; the ability to white label screens with logos and background images for custom branding; an improved content layout, making tools easier to navigate; and updates for consistent cross-browser functionality.
Device Designed to Detect Children Left in Vehicles
The Ambient Sensing Node (ASN) is an artificial intelligence-powered product created to detect children left behind in vehicles, including school buses. It can detect any movement — including heartbeats or breathing — for vehicle occupant monitoring.
Should a child be detected in the bus after it has been parked, the ASN device is engineered to alert the driver and fleet operator via telematics notification.
Bus Wi-Fi Solution May Provide More Time for Homework, Instruction
Kajeet SmartBus helps districts turn bus travel time into instructional time, extending the classroom for students by providing more than just internet on the school bus.
By giving students internet access while commuting, districts provide another opportunity for kids to stay on top of school work, as well as upgrade the bus riding experience.
Kajeet SmartBus offers districts educational Wi-Fi via a Cradlepoint router; Children’s Internet Protection Act-compliant customized filters; usage and data reporting; the ability to pool and share data among buses; and a dual-carrier option to have two networks connect simultaneously.
Wireless service is available on four 4G LTE networks.
The new Petro Vend 200 (PV200) Fuel Island Terminal offers modular options that make it scalable for a wide range of unattended fueling needs, according to OPW.
Available in three pedestal sizes, the PV200 provides 24-hour fuel control to unattended commercial fleet fueling operations large or small. OPW said that the terminal offers the versatility of many a la carte options, including dual card reader operation, an alpha keyboard, and a receipt printer.
Data Platform Can Track Routes, Students, Maintenance
Samsara is a single data platform system for real-time GPS, integrated student tracking, route analysis, driver support, and vehicle inspection and maintenance. Features include live bus location updates; cameras that can instantly sync to the cloud; a cloud-based dashboard that shows automatic engine diagnostics, idling alerts and fuel usage; a quick-search user interface; and driver safety reporting. The platform can also integrate with school bus apps such as SafeStop.
The TH6 is a high-definition (HD) hybrid video surveillance system that makes HD upgrades easier. Add up to six 1080p HD cameras while also recording views from existing installed analog cameras. The TH6 also offers a video protection feature to ensure video is always recorded even in a sudden power loss after an accident.
Battery Technology Designed to Cut Fuel Use, Costs
ACC Climate Control and Vanner Inc.’s Revolution technology is created to offer zero-emission operation. Revolution can eliminate engine high-idle, reduce fuel consumption, and lower school bus air-conditioning maintenance costs, according to Vanner. The driver has full functionality of air-conditioning, wheelchair lifts, radios, etc. with the engine off, which can eliminate emissions.
On the Horizon: Wearable Tech to Aid Drivers With Student Attendance
Transfinder is developing software that can work with smart watch technology to help drivers easily access route information. Operating with Wayfinder, its driver portal designed for a bring-your-own-device platform, drivers could take attendance with the watch and get information about the number of students who need to be picked up or dropped off at each stop. The watch would vibrate at each stop and give information on the time and distance until the next stop.
See how Martin Staples applies decades of mission-focused leadership and operational experience to helping school districts keep students safe in this National Military Appreciation Month profile.
Keith Corso and the BusRight team make it a goal to exceed expectations, always. Hear the secret sauce behind this 2026 Trailblazer in his own words in this podcast.
How does Keith Corso and BusRight truly empower their customers? It all comes down to exceeding expectations. Hear more about the secret sauce behind this 2026 SBF award winner in his own words. The Route is sponsored by IC Bus.
ACT Expo 2026 showcased the latest innovations in electric school buses, fleet charging, AI, V2G technology, diagnostics, and clean transportation. Check out the highlights from Blue Bird, IC Bus, Thomas Built Buses, RIDE, Cummins, Geotab, and more.
A new Ridership Management solution debuts for school transportation. Meanwhile, the company honored Garden City Public Schools for safety and operational improvements using its tech.
Dawnett Wright found a second calling in student transportation, one rooted in flexibility, family, and service. See how that mission still drives her in this National Military Appreciation Month profile.
Summit School Services recognized more than 5,500 drivers and monitors with safety awards after meeting accident- and injury-free performance standards over the past three years.
Leander ISD identified more than $1 million in projected annual savings after using AlphaRoute to optimize bus routes without changing schedules or stops.
