The coach tours and hotel operator, Alfa Travel have introduced two software tools from TruTac which, say the company, will tighten compliance-related procedures and reduce downtime for their UK and European PSV fleet.

“We were using another package until recently” says Operations Director Paul Bull “but frankly, it didn’t tell us easily what we need to know. Therefore, we looked around the market and soon opted for the CPT Tacho Analysis and CPT Daily Checks products from TruTac. Now, with the support of the TruTac team we have deployed at pace to be ready for the 2018 season and after a short training period, we have full visibility across the fleet.”

Developed by TruTac in partnership with the CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport) the Tachograph Analysis software package includes complete web-based digital and analogue tachograph analysis, supporting EU and GB domestic drivers’ hours rules – specifically for PSV drivers (including Working Time Directive regulations).

The cloud-based system also provides Alfa Travel with instant access to clear and concise compliance data, including manager and driver dashboards with KPI reporting.

“TruTac also resolved the data transfer, working with Mercedes Fleetboard,” adds Paul “to enable remote downloading of each vehicle’s tachograph information. This gives us instant analysis and enables compliance issues to be identified whilst they are still fresh in drivers’ minds.”

Jack Chapman, Sales Manager at TruTac worked with Alfa Travel to ensure the products were tailored to their operational needs and delivered maximum ROI. Jack stated “working with Alfa was a great opportunity as they are focused on 100% compliance and wanted the best for their fleet and drivers.”

For driver debriefing, the module can be linked to training and disciplinary issues. Furthermore, drivers can log on to their own area of the system to review their duties, daily rest status, earliest next-duty start and other compliance data.

With 48 coaches in the fleet, at virtually 100% utilisation, Alfa Travel need to monitor every vehicle for defects so that corrective action can quickly be taken and downtime kept to a minimum.

“This is where CPT Daily Checks comes in” continues Paul. “Our drivers always pre-check the vehicle in their charge before setting off. That’s a given. However, it was not always possible to accurately record and cross-check any defect observations in a way which provided a solid audit trail and ongoing input from the engineering department to advise re any necessary action.”

Now, using the Daily Checks module with CPT-approved templates, drivers can carry out inspections for all checks and from their mobile app, submit instant results, including photos and detailed notes to the Engineering Manager for immediate review and rectification. Furthermore, Alfa Travel drivers now have full visibility of their working-time, infringements and tachograph data.

“Paperless, tamperproof and secure.” Adds Paul, “And moreover, if any of our drivers should get pulled over by the DVSA, they can provide an instant audit trail to verify checks and procedures pertaining to their vehicle. Cuts time and keeps the wheels moving.”

CPT Daily checks also complies with all regulations and DVSA guidance on inspections and service maintenance records for compliance control.

To bring Alfa Travel’s drivers up to speed with the new system, TruTac provided group training sessions and continue to give ongoing advice as and when needed.

For further information on any of TruTac’s products please contact TruTac on 02476 690000 or email info@trutac.co.uk