Tachographs have been mandatory across Europe for decades. Every time a new version is released, truckers are expected to invest up to €2200 per unit in them. For many, it’s just another cost with nothing to show for it.
But what if that wasn’t the case?
The data captured by tachographs is remarkably untapped. More than 40% of fleet operators still don’t connect their tachographs with GPS tracking and remote diagnostics. Those who do are already seeing differences. Fuel efficiency is up by 15%. Vehicle downtime is down by 20%.
Since August 2025, all trucks and buses transporting goods across EU borders must be equipped with the Smart Tacho 2. The goal is to improve road safety, support fair competition, and make enforcement easier for authorities.
But there’s more to it than compliance. Used smartly, this new tech can put money back in your pockets. Here’s how.
Which Sensors Are Generating Valuable Data?
The Smart Tacho 2 doesn’t just record driving hours. It’s connected to a growing network of sensors, each with unique functionality to gain a realistic understanding of where trucks are and how they are operating. Let’s look at the five integrated systems upgrading your fleet, what they do, and why they matter:
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)
What it does: Records vehicle location, start/stop times, and border crossings using a stable connection to at least three satellites to maintain precision.
Why it matters: Enables real-time tracking, geofencing, route optimization, and proof of compliance for international transport.
Vehicle Motion Sensors
What it does: Measures speed, distance, and movement patterns.
Why it matters: Distinguishes between driving, idling, and resting. Helps detect unauthorized vehicle movement or tampering.
Driver Card and Tachograph Unit
What it does: Records driver activity, working hours, rest periods, and infractions.
Why it matters: Ensures compliance with EU driving time regulations. Enables driver performance monitoring.
Remote Communication Interface (DSRC)
What it does: Allows roadside authorities to read key tachograph data wirelessly without stopping the vehicle.
Why it matters: Simplifies enforcement and reduces unnecessary checks
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) Sensor Integration
What it does: Links with vehicle systems to monitor speed vs speed limits using external maps and onboard cameras.
Why it matters: Helps enforce local speed rules automatically
How Can This Data Be Leveraged?
No driver (I’ve heard of) enjoys sitting in traffic. Nor do they feel overjoyed by bundles of logistical paperwork. When tachos are integrated with fleet management systems, these sensor readings offer the data points to slash those monotonous parts of the job.
Since GNNS data tells fleet operators where their trucks are with intense accuracy, they can build much more reliable delivery plans and reduce empty mileage. Transmetrics logistics planning software connects this data with orders from TMS, giving a complete view of analytics with a focus on costs. Since everything is automated and available in one place, fleet planners can make better-informed decisions.
FleetMetrics connects tachograph and GNSS data with orders from your TMS, so location accuracy turns into tighter delivery plans and fewer empty kilometres. The data your compliance hardware already produces starts feeding the plan instead of just the enforcement file.
With vehicle motion sensors and automated driver cards, fleet operators gain an accurate log of driver activity, which helps to improve scheduling and supports driver coaching and fatigue reduction. Moreover, visuals and alerts on driver’s hours versus HOS policies ensure companies avoid fines and lower the risk of tachograph fraud. Paired with tools like >FleetMetrics, fleet operators can review vehicle motion sensor data, speed, and GNNS data to assess fuel consumption patterns. These insights can help to reduce fuel usage by feeding them into route planning and driver coaching tools.
The best part of having Tacho 2 technology in place is that drivers should have less need to stop and share their compliance while on the road. Since the DSRC allows roadside authorities to read key tachograph data wirelessly, long international journeys don’t need to be disrupted, and it also means faster border crossings.
To summarize, Tacho 2, when integrated with the right tools, supports the bottom line by:
- Reducing empty miles
- Meeting SLAs
- Improving driver schedules
- Avoiding fines
- Cutting down on paperwork
- Speeding up border crossings
Do these benefits sound good to you? Get in touch and we’ll show you how to begin.
