Digital Technologies Reshaping Shipping Industry

The marine sector, traditionally reliant on human expertise and conventional methods, is currently undergoing a revolutionary transformation due to the rapid advancement of digital technologies, which could lead to autonomous shipping. Research shows that 78% of maritime professionals are open to technical innovations, seeing it as a positive influence, and 80% admit how important digital technology will be in achieving carbon emissions goals.

From artificial intelligence to automation, these innovations are not only optimising efficiency but also enhancing safety, sustainability, and profitability in an industry critical to global trade and environmental preservation.

Danny Peachey (pictured), Manager Great Yarmouth from HTL Group, a leading provider of hydraulic torque wrenches, explores five key digital trends that are revolutionising the marine sector and reshaping the way we navigate and manage the world’s oceans.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics

One of the most significant trends shaping the marine industry is the increasing adoption of AI and Big Data analytics. In fact, the Maritime AI market has seen an explosive expansion over the last year, nearly tripling in size, according to the new Thetius report commissioned by Lloyd’s Register. By analysing this data, AI systems can predict optimal routes and speeds, forecast maintenance needs, and reduce the likelihood of breakdowns. This proactive approach, called “predictive maintenance”, helps minimise vessel downtime. For example, the Danish company Maersk has implemented AI algorithms to predict machinery failures and optimise fuel usage, leading to substantial cost reductions.

The potential for AI goes beyond efficiency. Safety is a key benefit as AI-driven systems can monitor maritime conditions and forecast hazards such as piracy, extreme weather, or equipment failure, ensuring the safety of both ships and crews.

Autonomous Shipping and Robotics

Autonomous ships and robotics are redefining the future of the maritime sector. According to a study by Allied Market Research, the global market for autonomous ships is expected to reach £126,63 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2020 to 2030.

Autonomous ships reduce the need for large crews, which lowers labour costs and the risk of human error. They are equipped with advanced sensors, GPS technology, and AI, enabling them to navigate oceans efficiently. For example, Yara Birkeland, the world’s first autonomous, zero-emission container vessel, successfully completed its maiden voyage in 2022. This vessel operates with minimal human oversight and relies on a combination of onboard AI and remote operations.

Robotics are also making waves in the industry. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and underwater drones are increasingly used for inspecting and repairing underwater infrastructure such as oil rigs and pipelines. These robots can perform tasks that would be dangerous or expensive for human divers, significantly reducing operational risks.

Blockchain Technology

The marine sector relies on complex supply chains, making Blockchain technology a game-changer. The global supply chain can involve multiple entities, ranging from shipping lines to customs authorities, creating opportunities for miscommunication, lost cargo, and fraud.

Blockchain’s decentralised, immutable ledger provides an unparalleled level of transparency, allowing all parties involved—shipowners, port authorities, customs agents, and freight companies—to have real-time access to data about cargo shipments and transactions

Furthermore, blockchain can facilitate the automation of contract execution through smart contracts, which automatically trigger payments, inspections, or approvals when certain conditions are met. By increasing trust and reducing delays, blockchain technology is helping the marine sector run more smoothly and cost-effectively.

The Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Shipping

The Internet of Things (IoT) is creating an interconnected ecosystem in the marine industry, revolutionising everything from shipbuilding to operations and safety. By embedding sensors and communication devices into ships, engines, containers, and ports, IoT enables real-time monitoring of vessel conditions, cargo status, and environmental factors.

For instance, IoT can monitor a ship’s engine performance, detect wear and tear, and alert operators to potential mechanical failures before they become serious issues. It can also track cargo conditions—such as temperature, humidity, or pressure—ensuring that perishable goods like food or pharmaceuticals are transported safely and efficiently.

Danny Peachey, HTL Group

IoT is also revolutionising ports. Smart Ports use IoT systems to automate loading and unloading processes, manage energy consumption, and reduce bottlenecks. Ports such as Hamburg and Rotterdam are already implementing smart solutions that reduce port congestion and improve the flow of goods.

Sustainability and Green Shipping

As concerns over climate change grow, the marine sector is embracing sustainability and green shipping. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set ambitious targets to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050.

Digital technologies, such as AI and IoT, play a vital role in helping the industry meet these targets. For example, AI tools can optimise fuel consumption by adjusting ship speeds and routes based on real-time data. Moreover, the use of digital twin technology—a virtual replica of a physical ship—enables companies to simulate different designs and operational conditions, identifying the most energy-efficient options before they are implemented.

Low-carbon fuels, electric propulsion systems, and onboard energy management systems are increasingly being adopted, and digital platforms are being used to track carbon emissions, making compliance with environmental regulations easier and more transparent.

The marine industry is undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by advances in AI, robotics, blockchain, IoT, and sustainability initiatives. These technologies are not only improving operational efficiency and safety but also helping the industry reduce its environmental impact. As these trends continue to evolve, the marine sector is set to become more agile, cost-effective, and sustainable, positioning itself for future growth in an increasingly digital world.

AI-powered Transport Operations Platform Upgraded

In response to today’s high demand for resilience in the world of physical operations, Samsara Inc., pioneer of the Connected Operations® Platform, announced its new Upgrade for Smarter Operations programme across the UK and Ireland, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg markets. The programme is designed to make it easy for organisations that rely on systems with inadequate capabilities and customer support to upgrade to Samsara’s advanced and comprehensive AI-powered platform. Eligible companies to upgrade include organisations like Lightfoot, Microlise, Webfleet, Trakm8, Lytx, Geotab, Verizon Connect, VisionTrak, and Masternaught among others.

“We switched technology providers because our previous telematics and cameras were unreliable – the data was poor, and our drivers didn’t trust it, hindering bonus planning. We were close to choosing Microlise, but Samsara’s ability to identify key events and behaviours stood out, offering a path to improve our culture through training,” said Peter Cox, Head of Transport, Clean Linen.

Advantages of the Platform

As the most widely-used and fastest-growing connected operations platform, Samsara is committed to continuous innovation and customer success. In fact, the company holds hundreds of patents and has proven to deliver 8x ROI. This commitment translates into many tangible benefits as organisations that use Samsara’s platform can experience:

• Unrivalled AI Insights and Safety: Samsara’s AI is trained on more than 14 trillion data points, more than any other in its industry. Customers leverage its industry-leading AI to gain actionable insights that improve safety, efficiency, and decision-making across operations.
• Expert Partnership, Dependable Supply Chain, and Unwavering Reliability: Customers can rely on Samsara’s solutions for their mission-critical operations, benefiting from secure, scalable, and flexible technology, 99.99% platform uptime, extensive European coverage ensuring top-tier connectivity, rapid 48-hour hardware shipping, and a limited lifetime hardware warranty, all backed by dedicated 24/7 expert support. From day one, customers work with Samsara’s customer success managers and implementation consultants, who stay with them through every stage of their journey.
• Technology Drivers Love: Improve driver satisfaction and retention with leading safety technology and the industry’s number-one rated driver app, designed to be easy to use and to make administrative work simple for drivers.
• Committed to a sustainable future: Samsara customers globally have collectively saved over 1.3 million metric tons of CO2 emissions through the platform’s features designed for efficient fuel use and reduced emissions.
• Future-Proof Stability: Samsara is a long-term, financially strong partner, growing more than 30% year-over-year, and is continuously innovating for its customers, as evidenced by its more than $1B invested in research and development to date.

Thousands of organisations have switched to Samsara because of these advantages and more. Below are a few of their stories with perspective on Samsara’s differentiated solutions and support:

• “It was only when we started investigating alternatives that we discovered Samsara’s AI-based technology. We soon realised it was the perfect fit for us, providing information we needed in real-time,” commented Olivia Fagan, Compliance Officer, Fagan & Whalley
• “We see Samsara as a strategic partner that not only helps us to achieve our current goals, but also supports our long-term vision of a sustainable and successful company… We particularly appreciate the transparent and predictable cost structure that Samsara offers us. Unlike other providers, we get an all-inclusive solution that impresses with its intuitive, user-friendly platform,” added David Intruglio, Head of National Logistics, Alsco
• “When we studied the market, we realised that Samsara differentiated itself from its competitors with particularly effective, latest-generation solutions. We also appreciated their ability to respond very quickly to our specifications with great precision. For the installation of the first gateway, a Samara technician guided us by videoconference and it took us barely 15 minutes. We installed the subsequent units completely independently and very easily, taking just 5 minutes per vehicle,” said Karim Aït Soumane, Co-Founder, TMA Express
• “The Samsara safety score has been a runaway success. It’s given myself and other drivers something to compete over, I can’t count the number of times we’ve joked about beating each other’s score, it’s a fantastic system,” concluded Eddie Burns, Driver and Driver Manager, Midland Tyre Services

AI Tools for Fleets
“The world of physical operations is the engine of our economy, driving over 40% of global GDP and impacting everyone’s daily life,” said Philip van Der Wilt, EMEA SVP and GM, at Samsara. “The legacy solutions some are relying on simply aren’t built for today’s economic uncertainties and operational complexities, eroding the confidence leaders need. That’s why we’re making it even easier for them to upgrade to the clear advantages Samsara’s platform delivers.”

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Multi-Million Savings Across Fleet Operations

UK electricals retailer AO has achieved 16% annual cost savings and reduced road incidents across its 1,000+ fleet of commercial vehicles by implementing advanced AI and fleet management solutions from Samsara, provider of the Connected Operations® Platform.

AO has more than 1,000 commercial vehicles equipped with Samsara’s advanced telematics technology and AI dash cams, with visibility of the entire fleet provided through Samsara’s Connected Operations platform.

By making Samsara’s platform central to its fleet operation, AO has increased operational efficiency, saving time, reducing costs and making work better for its drivers:

• Driver time has been saved by replacing manual vehicle walkarounds carried out with paper and pen with intuitive digital walkarounds using a Driver App
• Proactive, AI-driven vehicle maintenance has delivered 31% cost savings annually and an 8% reduction in tyre spend, despite completing more miles
• Insurance premiums have reduced by 25% due to reduced accident rates — proven through Samsara’s analytics.

Shaun Carter, Regional Manager at AO, comments: “Samsara is central to our operations—saving us time, helping us keep costs down, and making life easier for our drivers. We’ve got a single source of truth to monitor driver performance, track our fleet of vehicles, and provide training to the drivers that need it most.”

The Samsara technology has had a particularly positive impact on driver performance and attitudes to safer driving. Through Samsara In-Cab Alerts and AI dash cams, drivers are warned about any risky behaviour in real time and data is used to provide targeted coaching to its drivers. The introduction of a Driver Safety Score has driven competition between the drivers to enhance their road performance — raising safety standards across the business.

Carter explains: “The safety score is now a hugely important KPI as it demonstrates the work we’ve done and encourages drivers to compete amongst each other — and by proving that score we receive a discount on insurance premiums too. It’s about much more than cost savings though. Safer drivers means fewer accidents, more reliable deliveries, and, ultimately, happier customers.”

Philip van der Wilt, SVP and GM EMEA at Samsara, comments: “Connecting physical operations can have a transformative impact, as AO is demonstrating through improved efficiency, vehicle performance and road safety. By empowering businesses with full visibility and management of their fleet, Samsara is playing a pivotal role in enhancing the driver experience and the service they deliver to customers.”

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Research Indicates AI Revolution has Arrived in Transport Ops

The leaders of physical operations-led organisations in the UK and Ireland are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance safety, maximise efficiency, and empower their employees. That’s according to a new 2024 State of Connected Operations Report — Smarter, Faster, Safer: The AI Revolution in Physical Operations — from Samsara, a pioneer of the Connected Operations™ Cloud.

With perspectives from more than 1,500 physical operations leaders across seven countries, including 300 in the UK and Ireland, the report reveals how AI is already revolutionising how these organisations operate — and how leaders are transforming their operations and unlocking new efficiencies. This original research found that 99% of operations leaders in the UK and Ireland believe their organisation needs to invest in AI technology solutions to keep up in today’s environment.

“AI is everywhere, and physical operations leaders are quickly embracing it,” said Evan Welbourne, Head of AI and Data at Samsara. “When used strategically, advances in AI can bring meaningful change to the companies that power our global economy. For example, it can reduce costs, boost efficiency, and even save workers’ lives in the field.”

AI investment is on the rise

While some industries are slower to adopt AI, organisations within physical operations are embracing it, viewing it as a market-tested technology whose utility is proven and expanding. Nearly all (99%) leaders in the UK and Ireland believe AI technology is vital to keep up, and 89% of organisations say they plan to increase investments in AI within the next 12 months. With continued pressures around labour shortages, geopolitical conflicts, and reshoring, technology will be key as organisations face these challenges.

The use of AI is growing in physical operations — and employees see that as a good thing

AI is not seen as an experimental technology for the industries that keep the global economy running smoothly. Nearly half (45%) of leaders in the UK and Ireland say their organisation is already using AI, attributing the most significant benefits to improving safety (46%) and employee productivity (45%). Leadership roles are not the only ones within these organisations that are bullish on AI–89% of those already using AI say their employees feel positive about it. This may be because workers are seeing the direct benefit these solutions have on their day-to-day lives through enhanced workplace safety and efficiency.

Security and data privacy come first

It takes massive amounts of data to run AI technology, representing a huge responsibility — and risk — for any organisation. Physical operations leaders are not cutting corners. Of those already using AI or planning to in the next 1-2 years, 57% are implementing privacy and data protection measures. For the 55% of organisations that plan to adopt AI solutions created by external technology partners, security is not to be sacrificed for functionality. 55% of leaders said they care most about a partner’s ability to integrate with existing systems, and security and privacy compliance (48%).

“Not all AI solutions are created equal,” says Welbourne. “You have to be able to trust the system, and that means finding a technology partner who not only has a proven track record with responsible innovation, but who also deeply understands your business and the challenges you’re up against.”

To view all insights from the State of Connected Operations Report — and discover how operations leaders are embedding AI into their organisations — visit here

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AI and IoT are Redefining the future of Supply Chains

AI and IoT are redefining the future of supply chains and revolutionising logistics, writes Adrian Negoita (pictured below), CTO and Co-Founder of Dexory.

In the warehousing industry, every detail matters and precision is paramount. Any business involved in the selling of physical goods needs efficient supply chain management. However, the dynamic nature of the business environment, currently characterised by geopolitical tensions, fierce competition, and increasing costs, has meant supply chain disruptions have become a major obstacle.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and The Internet of Things (IoT) brings about a paradigm shift, providing real-time insights and revolutionising the way businesses manage their logistics. Thanks to these technologies, businesses can better react to challenges, improving their resilience and streamlining operations like never before.

What distinguishes AI from the Internet of Things?

AI and IoT work harmoniously but have unique functions and capabilities. AI is a machine’s capability to emulate the intelligence we typically associate with human minds. In the context of logistics, algorithms analyse vast data sets, garner insights, predict outcomes and make informed decisions based on the collected data. This process happens continuously, meaning performance can be enhanced over time. For instance, AI-powered solutions enhance operational efficiency through improved inventory management, space optimisation and forward planning. Businesses that can rapidly learn from previous operation patterns up to the present can make adjustments simultaneously, improving their resilience.

The Internet of Things describes when objects are fitted with sensors, software and other technologies to connect and exchange data over the Internet. In warehousing, IoT sensors and radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags can be used to provide insights into the supply chain’s inventory, assets and environmental conditions.

The advantages of AI and IoT in collaboration

Ultimately, the integration of AI and IoT results in warehouse systems that are more agile, responsive, and efficient. An essential advantage is the provision of real-time data insights. IoT devices consistently transmit data, offering insights into inventory levels, asset performance, and environmental conditions of the warehouse. Following this, AI algorithms analyse the data, providing logistics managers with actionable insights that facilitate prompt and effective decision-making.

AI is capable of processing and anticipating future fluctuations in demand using historical IoT data. This helps to identify any potential constraints and disruptions. All this means warehouses can adapt quickly to overcome obstacles.

IoT and AI also enhance traceability and transparency. Tracking devices powered by IoT illustrate the movement of products throughout the supply chain. AI compiles and then uses this data to adjust inventory levels appropriately, monitor goods, and enhance delivery precision. It also can monitor the whereabouts of shipments, thereby enabling logistics firms to provide the best possible customer service, giving accurate information and comprehensive delivery predictions to customers.

Optimising visibility

The lack of visibility in supply chains is a critical factor impeding operational efficiency, exposing organisations to potential risks and inefficiencies. An over-reliance on outdated data means warehouses respond too slowly to challenges. To attain true resilience, supply chains require the availability of dependable information.

The implementation of autonomous mobile robotics substantially increases productivity. Enhanced sensors and digital twin technology, which simulates the physical environment, in conjunction with industry-leading robotics, provide unprecedented visibility and control. Technological innovations have brought about a paradigm shift in warehouse operations by enhancing problem identification and resolution, in addition to environmental monitoring. The faster a problem or technical issue can be identified and resolved, the higher all-around efficiency is in response to complex and ever changing demands placed on the warehouse industry.

Conventional systems fail to adequately handle the volume and speed of data, resulting in decisions made from outdated or incomplete information. Nevertheless, by integrating AI-powered analytics and IoT real-time data, organisations can enhance operational resilience, predict results, and make well-informed decisions. As these technologies continue to advance, warehousing will evolve alongside them.

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Fleet Safety Enhanced by AI Dash Cams

Quest has selected Samsara, the pioneer of the Connected Operations™ Cloud, to enhance the safety of its fleet operations. By harnessing Samsara’s video-centric safety solution, Quest is set to utilise AI Dash Cams, driver coaching tools, and actionable data to establish a world-class fleet safety initiative.

In conjunction with an existing program that focuses on annual driving behaviour training, Samsara’s AI Dash Cams and driver coaching tools are poised to deliver tangible benefits, including the reduction of accidents, the prevention of false claims, and a decrease in operational costs. The video-driven safety solution leverages advanced AI technology and g-force accelerometer data to provide real-time insights to fleet managers. Among these insights are the detection of distracted driving, instances of harsh braking and acceleration, and tailgating, all of which contribute to preventing accidents proactively.

This innovative technology enhances driver conduct through audible in-cab alerts that draw attention to high-risk behaviours and incidents. Moreover, safety reports and user-friendly workflows, including driver safety scores and risk assessments, facilitate scalable driver coaching and incentivise safe driving practices. Furthermore, by making use of the Samsara Driver mobile app, Quest can introduce driver-centric gamification and establish employee reward programs, further fostering a culture of safety among its workforce.

Dave Smithson (pictured), the Transport Manager at Quest, expressed his satisfaction with the successful trial of Samsara’s innovative technology. He mentioned, “We are thrilled to work with Samsara to elevate our driver safety efforts to the next level. This technology will empower us to provide guidance and support to our team members for enhancing their driving behaviour. Moreover, it offers us a standardised approach for incident reviews and driver monitoring.”

Fleet Safety

In addition to establishing a comprehensive fleet safety program, Quest plans to harness the capabilities of Samsara’s Connected Operations Platform. This platform will provide real-time fleet visibility, ensuring enhanced productivity through better fuel and maintenance planning, continuous monitoring of assets and equipment, and cost reduction. This also includes the ability to robustly defend against legal and insurance claims, thus safeguarding the well-being of employees, the company, and public safety.

Philip van der Wilt, SVP and GM of EMEA, Samsara, added: “It’s exciting work with Quest to accelerate their digital transformation efforts. We look forward to providing them with the insights and real-time data they need to create a real-world impact on safety, for their employees, customers and the community within which they operate.”

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Podcast: Fleet Insurance: Strategies to Control Costs

Episode 1 of the second season of our Podcast series, ‘Logistics Business Conversations’, is now available to listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Acast, Amazon Audible, YouTube, and other podcast distribution platforms – just search for ‘Logistics Business Conversations’.

Peter MacLeod hosts two experts on fleet safety to discuss fleet insurance costs and risk management. Jack Burton of Samsara and Daniel King from QBE detail the factors contributing to rises in insurance costs and what is driving market conditions. With claims cost inflation, parts shortages and rising costs of vehicle technology it is crucial to have a robust risk management strategy. How can data help achieve and support this? Advice from these experts on enablement, the use of dashcams and sensors, risk management programs and use case examples.

Jack Burton, Samsara
Daniel King, QBE

In the logistics industry, fleet insurance is one of the major costs for any organisation. With claims cost inflation, parts shortages and rising costs of vehicle technology, this cost is rising meaning it is evermore crucial to have a robust risk management strategy to help to control costs.

Fleet insurance

Hear answers to key questions, including: How can fleet management improve operations and reduce costs? What is driving market conditions? What data is valuable, and can help to support risk management teams? How can data be shared? How can the data be put into practice?

Listen to any of our Podcast episodes here.

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Podcast: Transport Management: Data & Delivery

 

 

Greener Farm to Fork Journey

5G-technologies could deliver significant carbon savings across food and drink manufacturing from farm to fork, according to new economic modelling. The modelling reinforces the environmental benefits of 5G Standalone (5G SA), particularly for key industries in that are traditionally carbon intensive like manufacturing.

Technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and tracking systems can transform the way we manage food and drink across the manufacturing supply chain – from its origins on the farm, through to factory production sites and transporting the food on UK roads to our stores. The new modelling reveals that 5G technologies could save the food and drink supply chain 37 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions between 2024 and 2035. That’s the same as removing 78,000 delivery trucks from UK roads.*

However, these efficiencies can only be achieved with the timely rollout of a 5G SA network. That is why, following completion of the proposed joint venture, Vodafone UK and Three UK have committed to investing £11 billion in the first 10 years as a combined business which will help deliver 99% of 5G Standalone population coverage by 2034. This critical infrastructure will deliver a far superior network that will allow us to build towards the UK’s digital future, faster and facilitate the innovations needed to support the UK on its Net Zero journey.

The modelling conducted by WPI Economics for Vodafone reveals the impact that these technologies can have on decarbonising the supply chain.

• In farming, 5G technologies, such as drones and sensors that monitor soil and crop conditions could improve yields and significantly reduce the food waste produced on farms. By 2035, this reduction in food waste can correspond to a total saving of carbon emissions equivalent to 6% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2022.
• On the factory line, 5G-enabled manufacturing technologies like remote maintenance systems, which reduce machine downtime, plus IoT tracking systems, which reduce electricity consumption required for cooling and storing goods, could all contribute to an 11% reduction in CO2e emissions in manufacturing by 2035.
• When transporting goods by road, implementing 5G technologies, such as Vehicle-to-Everything to improve the fuel efficiency of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV), in the commercial distribution of food and drink could reduce HGV emissions by up to 54 MtCO2e. This equates to more than double the total UK HGV emissions of 2021.

Andrea Dona, Chief Network Officer, Vodafone UK, said: “We’re supporting many customers across the farm to fork supply chain to become more energy efficient through innovative technology like IoT and the Cloud. But we need the proper infrastructure to take it to the next level. 5G Standalone has the potential to transform the UK supply chain, smoothing operations for suppliers and reducing carbon emissions. Vodafone’s proposed combination with Three UK will enable us to invest £11bn over the next decade, reaching over 99% of the UK population with 5G Standalone by 2034 and helping the UK’s agricultural industry decarbonise sooner rather than later.”

A spokesperson from the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said: “The RHA is dedicated to supporting its members to help them sustainably reduce emissions in the road freight and logistics industry. We welcome Vodafone’s newly released research which finds that the implementation of 5G technologies could reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the sector by up to 44%. This year, the RHA launched the Net Zero forum which seeks to collaborate with other leading business voices for sharing best practices, technological advancements, and cutting-edge research related to sustainable transport, and we look forward to continuing to support our members by identifying new technology which will support them to decarbonise.”

In June, Vodafone launched the UK’s first Standalone network, 5G Ultra, creating one of the most technologically advanced network for customers.

Methodology

The estimated figures are based on analysis by WPI Economics using trusted data sources, including data from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, Department for Transport and the ONS, as well as academic literature. Overall benefits are calculated based on a Theory of Change flow, which breaks down the total effect into discrete effect channels identified through a literature review. Benefits coming from each channel are estimated and summed together (where applicable). The analysis presents emissions avoided between 2024 and 2035, assuming a staggered implementation of 5G-enabled solutions over time. The estimates are based on official government projections of CO2e emissions by industry, and the projected changes in sources of energy generation.
*Delivery trucks refers to Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs).

Reduction in Non-fault Claims with AI

International haulage firm Roelofs Transport has been working with Samsara, a pioneer of the Connected Operations™ Cloud, to digitise its operations as it continues to grow. By implementing Samsara’s Dual-Facing AI-powered dash cams, Mobile Experience Management and Fleet Telematics, Roelofs Transport has real-time visibility into its operations and is managing its fleet more safely and efficiently.

Roelofs Transport has evolved over the past three decades from a family business into an international haulage firm boasting a fleet of over 50 Scania trucks, across multiple countries between Italy and the Netherlands. It faced challenges including ensuring drivers were adhering to legal time limits during extended shifts, and encountering incidents of vehicle and cargo damage, which resulted in substantial costs and an impact on the company’s reputation. As a result, Roelofs Transport required an advanced solution to track its expanding fleet, gain insights into driver behaviour, and effectively address issues in real-time.

With Samsara’s Vehicle Gateway, Roelofs has unlocked enhanced telematics functionality, optimising routes, elevating customer service, and curbing fuel wastage. This has helped Roelofs to reduce the number of processes it had in a typical delivery from 88 to just four – a reduction of 95%. With the company taking on around 400 deliveries per week, this has reduced workload significantly for employees and has improved customer service.

Additionally, Samsara’s Dual-facing AI-powered dash cams have allowed Roelofs to reduce unsafe driving, while shielding drivers in incidents caused by other road users. Beyond critical event recording, the cameras hold more value through AI-driven In-Cab Coaching, which offers immediate guidance to drivers based on incidents. Through improved employee coaching and streamlined video-based investigation, Roelofs Transport has seen a significant cut in non-fault claims by 60%, which has also lowered insurance policy premiums.

Dennis Hendriks, Operations Manager at Roelofs Transport, comments: “Our drivers can be away from base for extended periods of time, up to two weeks. With Samsara’s In-Cab Coaching, our drivers can review their coaching event on the same day, or at the next stop, which helps correct and improve driving behaviours, in real-time.”

Philip van der Wilt, SVP and GM EMEA at Samsara, said: “By harnessing vehicle data and 360-degree cameras and feeding them into Samsara’s cloud platform, we have transformed Roelofs Transports’ operations to help them to better manage their growing fleet, setting them up for the future. As we continue to roll out innovative features, visionary companies like Roelofs Transport stand to offer their customers even greater benefits”.

Samsara is the pioneer of the Connected Operations™ Cloud, which is a platform that enables organisations that depend on physical operations to harness Internet of Things (IoT) data to develop actionable insights and improve their operations. Samsara operates in North America and Europe and serves tens of thousands of customers across a wide range of industries including transportation, wholesale and retail trade, construction, field services, logistics, utilities and energy, government, healthcare and education, manufacturing, and food and beverage. The company’s mission is to increase the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the operations that power the global economy.

 

Digital Transformation of Operations Reshape Worker Experience

Today, at its Beyond conference, Samsara Inc. (NYSE:IOT), announced product innovations designed to reshape the worker experience for organizations managing complex physical operations. The conference, which runs June 21-23rd in Austin, Texas, is one of the largest gatherings of leaders and innovators across physical operations, a wide range of industries all powered by frontline workforces who are vital to keeping the global economy running.

The digital-first tools showcased by Samsara today – from Virtual Coach, a new coaching aid that reaches drivers when and where they need it, to Mobile Experience Management, a lifeline for workers in the field to get help from the back office – empower employees with personalized, connected, and integrated experiences to help them operate more safely and efficiently.

“We have had tremendous momentum as our AI-powered platform drives real business impact for our customers,” said Sanjit Biswas, CEO and co-founder of Samsara. “Our customers’ frontline workers keep the world running – from the construction crews and field service technicians, to loading dock workers and truck drivers. With ongoing labour shortages and the next generation of the workforce demanding digital tools, we are helping make these jobs easier, safer, and more efficient. The next wave of digital transformation is happening now.”

Empowering workers with personalized, connected, and integrated experiences Serving tens of thousands of organizations across North America and Europe, Samsara’s customer base crosses a diverse set of industries and includes many of the world’s biggest construction, transportation, waste management, and wholesale and retail companies. Samsara’s Connected Operations™ Cloud is already contributing dramatic improvements to workers in these industries – using AI to prevent over 120,000 crashes in 2022 alone, and digitizing more than 23 million documents to save thousands of hours of paperwork. Today, Samsara has announced new innovations that continue reshaping the worker experience and driving results, which include:
● Mobile Experience Management (MEM): Workers doing demanding jobs in the field need mobile devices to be a lifeline, not a distraction. MEM is a software solution that simplifies mobile management at scale so workers stay safe, connected, and productive. With MEM, employees can get customized support – like remote training and live troubleshooting – through their mobile devices, all while keeping them safe by reducing unnecessary digital distractions.
● Virtual Coach: Improving road safety requires timely insights to inform the coaching of risky driving behaviour. Instead of drivers having to wait for in-person feedback, Virtual Coach empowers them to self-coach directly from the Samsara Driver App anywhere, anytime. This
makes it easy for managers to personalize coaching experiences at scale, improving both road safety as well as driver engagement and retention.
● Smart Trailer and Asset Tracking solutions: Powerful insights from trailers and assets – such as utilization, temperature, and location – are hard to act upon when they live in siloed systems. With next-generation Asset Gateways, Samsara can connect and extend this visibility to drive better outcomes. The new Find My Asset feature allows managers to quickly find lost or stolen high-value unpowered assets – saving substantial time and money. In addition, a new two-way cloud integration with Thermo King’s TracKing® Telematics makes it possible for customers to not only monitor, but remotely control, their Thermo King reefers from the Samsara dashboard.
● Data Connectors: Driving better business outcomes is challenging when your data lives in separate, third-party platforms that aren’t able to work together. With new data connectors including Fivetran, Kafka, and Power BI, Samsara data is easily streamed to power business
applications and workflows. This holistic visibility empowers everyone within your organization to make data-driven decisions and improve the bottom line.

“We know that data is essential in today’s environment to drive better business outcomes – whether that’s lowering emissions, preventing accidents, or automating workflows. Empowering the people within your organization with the right digital tools is critical to achieving these outcomes,” explained Jeff Hausman, Chief Product Officer at Samsara. “All of our announcements made today are reshaping this worker
experience for customers and enabling them to achieve meaningful digital transformation of physical operations, now.”

Mobile Experience Management is now available for purchase in early access for customers across the U.S. and Canada. Virtual Coach is now available in beta for global customers.

Also at Beyond ‘23, Biswas announced Samsara Ventures – a new investment fund to support visionary companies building innovative solutions throughout the connected operations ecosystem. Samsara Ventures focuses on portfolio companies that are aligned with Samsara’s mission to increase the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the operations that power the global economy. Along with monetary
investments, Samsara Ventures will provide mentorship from Samsara’s leadership team, access to Samsara’s community of customers and ecosystem partners, and the unique opportunity to build and scale solutions in connection with Samsara’s Connected Operations Cloud.

Physical operations industries are the backbone of our economy, and Samsara has been innovating from the start to help these organizations succeed,” said Biswas. “We’re excited to extend our commitment to the connected operations ecosystem with Samsara Ventures. Beyond investing in industry-wide innovation, we also recognize how valuable these advancements can be for our customers, who are often looking for solutions to many of the challenges these companies are solving for.”

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