Konecranes Lifttrucks has launched a fleet management system which it says will improve operational efficiency of forklift fleets.

The Konecranes Fleet Management System consists of sensors - including GPS receivers -mounted on vehicles and external devices like RFID readers and cameras. Trucks, drivers and containers can also be equipped with a unique ID, allowing for retrieval of data like speed and fuel consumption.

The system can also report collection and drop-off co-ordinates, and set alarms at programmed events. Via a keyboard in the cabin, the driver can upload photo and text files into the system. All acquired data is stored on a third-party server.

GPS co-ordinates of the truck are presented on a digital map of the operations area. Real-time operations of the fleet with load IDs are superimposed onto the map, enabling identification of risk areas like intense traffic points.

"We are confident that this is a very beneficial option to make when ordering new trucks from Konecranes," says Michael Andersson, product manager.

Konecranes Lifttrucks, formerly SMV, is part of the Konecranes Group which has 8,400 employees in 43 countries. In 2007, Group sales totalled EUR1.872 billion (USD2.893 billion). The group provides lifting solutions and services for lifting equipment to customers including manufacturing and process industries, shipyards, ports and terminals.