Sydney: HERE Technologies, a leader in digital mapping and location data, is broadening its collaboration with fleet management and telematics provider EROAD to introduce EROAD’s first vehicle-aware navigation application in Oceania.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new solution, which is set to be available in Australia and New Zealand, is based on the HERE platform. It utilizes advanced routing services and truck-specific data designed to improve driver safety, enhance fleet efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance. Deon Newman, HERE Technologies Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific, stated that the collaboration aims to provide fleets with optimized routes, real-time insights, and critical alerts to help avert incidents such as bridge strikes.
Mark Davidson, EROAD Chief Product Officer, highlighted that the partnership is a timely response to challenges within the Oceania transport and logistics sector. It equips customers with a solution designed to address the increasing demands of delivery, the complexity of compliance, and a significant driver shortage. This strengthened partnership underscores both companies’ shared commitment to offering innovative transport solutions that cater to the needs of commercial vehicle and fleet operators globally.
By integrating HERE’s location intelligence with EROAD’s operational expertise, the partnership seeks to enhance delivery accuracy, streamline route planning, and improve the day-to-day experience for drivers and fleet managers. The solution, developed using features from HERE WeGo Pro, converts centrally planned routes into real-time, turn-by-turn guidance. It supports truck-specific routing, taking into account vehicle dimensions, cargo type, road restrictions, real-time traffic updates, predictive estimated time arrivals (ETAs), and offline functionality for remote areas.
The release of the navigation app coincides with the rising demand for connected vehicle technologies in Australia and New Zealand. A recent report by ResearchAndMarkets.com projected that the installed base of fleet management systems in the region will reach 2.7 million units by 2028. Meanwhile, Australia is facing a significant shortage of heavy vehicle drivers, with nearly 28,000 positions unfilled. A report by the International Road Transport Union indicated that almost half of the country’s truck drivers are over 55, with more than 21 percent expected to retire by 2029.