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.
Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most practical tools in today’s transportation office. Here’s how it is improving parent communication, board reporting, training development, and overall efficiency — without replacing professional judgment.
Student transportation teams are being asked to do more with less, facing driver shortages, rising costs, and increasing safety expectations. This report uncovers how fleets are adapting, where technology is making the biggest impact, and why student ridership tracking is emerging as a top priority. Download the report to explore the key trends shaping 2026 and what they mean for your operation.
Transportation leaders say when their districts implemented Transfinder's AI enhanced logistics technology, it paid for itself in financial savings, time savings and operational headache reductions (OHR). In this white paper transportation experts share specific ways they have experienced how Transfinder P.A.Y.S. (Pay As You Save) off. Each, in their own way, said transportation technology is not simply a software purchase — it’s a strategic investment in operational efficiency, cost containment and staff satisfaction.
From bus driver to SBF’s Administrator of the Year, Oregon’s Kathy Calkins shares how positivity, relationships, and hands-on leadership transforms teams. The Route is sponsored by IC Bus.
Lafourche Parish Schools will implement First Student’s Fleet-as-a-Service model for 115 buses, shifting maintenance and operations on-site ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
New IC Bus vehicles can now arrive with Samsara telematics factory-installed, helping fleets reduce downtime, streamline setup, and achieve day-one connectivity.
