Built-in GPS in off-road navigation is a lifesaver for industries that use the technology in their day-to-day operations, like hospitals that use it to deliver time-sensitive vaccines in remote locations. Off-the-track travel has considerably evolved with GPS integration, and the change has proved to be highly beneficial and one many long hoped for.

Benefits of Using GPS in Off-Road Transport

From enhanced safety to improved route planning, GPS integration in off-road navigation overcomes many logistics challenges. Here are ways people find the integration advantageous.

Reduced Fuel Consumption

Businesses can save on fuel and overall fleet operational costs by eliminating unnecessary miles. One scenario in which GPS integration translates to savings is by curbing idle time. An engine burns one-quarter to a half-gallon of gas every hour it isn't running. Inefficient routes can increase the vehicle's idle time, consequently making every trip more expensive to the company. GPS can provide drivers or dispatchers with the shortest and most direct tracks to reduce fuel use.

Improved Safety With Real-Time Tracking

GPS improves safety in all types of navigation, whether on the road or off. Overland, real-time GPS tracking allows organization executives to access up-to-date safety analytics and data, giving them insight into the driving behaviors of the person behind the wheel. This feature primarily benefits those who use fleet vehicles to carry goods or products across states or countries off the road.

While trucks are on the road, people in the HQ can monitor vehicle speed, see when sharper turns occur and review acceleration rates. They can use this information to measure transportation safety and identify areas of concern. Moreover, it lets them control moving assets when needed.

Enhanced Efficiency in Planning Routes

GPS assimilation on off-highway tracks lets people optimize their journeys using the safest and most convenient routes. Since rocky terrains or dirty trails aren't often visible on digital maps, managers can reference traditional maps and trail guides to plan the drivers’ course more efficiently before hitting the road. All-terrain vehicles can be a significant investment, costing upwards of $30,000 depending on what features are included. By dropping pins on waypoints, inaccessible trails and areas that pose potential navigational challenges, they can avoid dangerous delivery paths to better manage their fleet and protect their investment.

Increased Productivity and Customer Satisfaction

On-time delivery provides a positive customer experience, which is one benefit of leveraging GPS for off-course traveling. With live monitoring, managers at the main office can track their employees' locations in real time, ensuring they're on the job and dispatching as expected.

In case of delays, they can review the routes and check if employees have made detours or unassigned stops or encountered an issue while transporting. Access to this driving data helps managers find gaps in productivity and devise strategies to address them.

Challenges With the Integration

While useful, GPS in off-road navigation has some drawbacks.

Signal Interference

A variety of sources can obstruct GPS signals. One uncontrollable factor is naturally occurring space weather, like solar flares. The intense bursts of radiation from the sun interfere with the satellites' receiving and transmitting signals, affecting the location's accuracy. Drivers must have a backup navigation system, like paper maps or a compass, in case the GPS is down.

Dependency on Satellite Signals

GPS works without network connectivity but it relies on satellite signals that natural elements, like dense trees, can block. Drivers must consider this factor when using GPS. In case of extended disruption, the safest way is to return to the highways.

Vulnerability to Jamming and Spoofing

Unfortunately, GPS data is vulnerable to hacking, potentially sending the fleet off course and causing safety issues. This concern puts the airline industry on high alert as cases of GPS spoofing have surged to 400% in recent months. To protect themselves, organizations must encrypt their incoming and outgoing satellite codes. Doing so reinforces data security and limits access to coded coordinates only to employees.

Improving Off-Road Transport With GPS Technology

GPS is a valuable navigation technology, especially for businesses where logistics is a significant part of their operations. They can integrate GPS in their fleet to access real-time data that they can use to boost operations and make sound decisions.