PeopleNet Communications, Minneapolis, is developing an automated driver log program called eDriver Logs expected to launch later this year.

“Compliance, accuracy, load assignments, log book completion time … customers give us numerous reasons to switch from paper to electronic driver logs,” said David Ladner, PeopleNet General Manger, Transportation and Logistics. He said the system makes logs easier for drivers while reducing errors and providing information for fleet management.
“Because dispatchers will have immediate access to log information, they can do a better job of route scheduling, assigning loads to specific drivers and help reduce drivers’ hours of service violations. From the driver’s perspective, the system reduces the time they need to spend entering data into their logbook,” Ladner said.
Using GPS or engine plug-ins and driver input, eDriver Logs records a driver’s specific hours of service. The system alerts the driver near hours-of-service thresholds. Fleet managers can make records of the driver’s hours-of-service available for enforcement officials.
Customers will access eDriver Logs through the standard PeopleNet message display or handheld device technology.
“Drivers will input duty status changes into the on board device,” he said, “but the system is smart enough to automatically know if the vehicle is moving and can switch the duty status to driving if the driver forgets,” said Ladner. According to PeopleNet, the program has met certification requirements from the Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation 395.15 regarding automatic on board recording devices.
Meanwhile, Excel Corp. of Wichita, Kan., a beef and pork processors, will equip its company fleet with PeopleNet’s g2x mobile communications and tracking system. Excel Transportation and WisPak Transport, both Excel Corporation businesses, operate 400 power units in a refrigerated fleet.