Why connectivity matters in the automotive industry
Connectivity refers to systems that exchange data bidirectionally through networks or the internet.
Several factors have made connectivity a central focus in the automotive sector:
- Safety and convenience: Real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure allows for faster decision-making. In the U.S., the Department of Transportation has allocated $40 million in grants to connected vehicle technologies.
- Changing consumer expectations: A McKinsey study found that 55% of Chinese consumers are willing to switch car brands for better connectivity features.
- Market growth: The global connected vehicle market, valued at USD 84.9 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 267.2 billion by 2032.
Connectivity is no longer a "nice-to-have" feature—it's a core competitive factor in the automotive industry.
Three ways connectivity is transforming logistics with heavy-duty trucks
Connectivity is fundamentally reshaping how heavy-duty trucks are managed and operated, especially in logistics. Key areas of innovation include uptime, safety, and fuel efficiency.
Maximizing fleet uptime: towards trucks that never stop
In the trucking business, a stationary truck is a cost center. Uptime is directly linked to profitability.
With AI- and IoT-based predictive maintenance, vehicle sensor data is analyzed instantly to detect early signs of failure. Solutions like Noregon's TripVision and Penske's remote diagnostics allow for proactive maintenance, minimizing unexpected breakdowns.
Furthermore, by leveraging GPS and telematics in fleet management, companies can optimize route planning and gain clear visibility into vehicle operating hours. This helps minimize unnecessary driving and idle time. By maximizing the time trucks can stay on the road, businesses are able to generate the greatest possible value from limited resources.
Enhancing driver safety: through invisible support systems
Protecting drivers enhances safety and builds trust in logistics operations.
Today, many fleets use driver behavior monitoring systems such as Geotab and Fleet Complete. These systems track driving patterns in real-time, issuing alerts for risky actions like harsh braking or rapid acceleration.
This data also supports driver training and promotes safer habits. With this "invisible support," safety improves significantly, safeguarding both drivers and cargo.
Improving fuel efficiency: smarter, greener driving
Fuel costs impact both business profitability and environmental sustainability.
Eco-driving assistance systems analyze driver behavior and provide real-time feedback to encourage fuel-efficient driving. Studies show these systems can cut fuel consumption by up to 17.5%.
With real-time feedback, drivers can learn fuel-efficient driving techniques while they are on the road. This level of digital control allows heavy-duty trucks to balance economic performance with environmental responsibility, contributing to more sustainable logistics operations.
Real-world benefits of "connected trucks" in the digital transformation of logistics
Connected truck technologies are accelerating digital transformation in logistics.
Predictive maintenance powered by AI and IoT enables early failure detection, while cloud-based platforms offer real-time visibility into delivery status. Even small businesses can adopt these tools thanks to intuitive cloud-based BI dashboards and subscription models that reduce upfront investment.
Most importantly, these technologies foster collaborative digital transformation between drivers and fleet managers. Managers can objectively assess performance using driving data, while drivers receive real-time feedback to improve skills and reduce workload—boosting overall safety and efficiency.
UD Trucks' cutting-edge "connected trucks" technology
UD Trucks is among the leading companies integrating connectivity into heavy-duty trucks, creating solutions that go beyond transportation. The company’s Connected Trucks leverage data collection, analysis, and utilization to redefine modern logistics.
UD Connected Services
UD Connected Services is a 24/7 telematics system that remotely monitors vehicle health and location.
Fleet managers can track vehicle status in real-time, while international customers can access updates through the "My UD Fleet" app. Sensor data helps detect early signs of issues, enabling scheduled maintenance and reducing downtime.
With over 60,000 connected trucks sold globally, the system continues to improve through accumulated data.
ESCOT-VI driving support
ESCOT-VI is an advanced automated manual transmission system that improves both driving comfort and fuel efficiency.
Equipped with a 12-speed automated manual transmission and ECO modes, the system simplifies gear changes and optimizes acceleration and deceleration based on terrain. Regardless of experience level, drivers benefit from safer and more fuel-efficient operation.
For logistics companies facing driver shortages, this technology delivers consistent performance and supports newer drivers.
Connected trucks as a mobility solution for a smarter society
UD Trucks continues to transform trucks from simple transport tools into essential components of a smarter society.
Their trucks are equipped to automatically collect data on road conditions and traffic patterns while in motion. Real-time insights support route optimization and efficient fleet management.
Looking ahead, UD Trucks plans to implement V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication, enabling vehicles to interact with each other and infrastructure—reducing traffic accidents and congestion.
Collected data can also be used for urban infrastructure planning and emergency response, positioning trucks as active contributors to the broader social infrastructure.
Conclusion: A new era of logistics driven by connectivity
This article has explored three core areas of innovation—maximizing uptime, enhancing safety, and improving fuel efficiency—along with real-world examples and solutions that are accessible even to small and medium-sized businesses. It also presented a forward-looking vision of UD Trucks’ advanced technologies as a mobility solution for a smarter society.
To remain competitive in the logistics industry, adopting connectivity technologies is no longer optional. Now is the time to explore how these innovations can be applied to meet the unique needs of your business.
