Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM): Your Fleet Management Journey

What Is Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling?

Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) is a structured nine-dimensional fleet risk management framework developed exclusively by Argus Tracking, New Zealand’s leader in telematics and fleet intelligence. This model helps organisations understand the steps to modernise their fleet operations by analysing risk across every area of performance.

For the first time, fleet managers can benchmark their fleet’s current capability, identify where the greatest risks lie, and follow a practical, step-by-step roadmap to move toward safer and smarter operations in a consistent and standardised way.

Each of the nine FIRM dimensions represents a key stage of maturity, beginning with asset awareness, progressing through safety, compliance, cost control, and operational efficiency, and ultimately reaching wider technology readiness and vehicle connectivity.

Inspired by the principles of Building Information Modelling (BIM), the FIRM framework provides a visual and logical structure for risk improvements. It helps leaders understand where they are today, what is possible tomorrow, and which investments will deliver the most meaningful progress for their fleet.

In summary:

Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) is a nine-dimensional fleet risk management framework developed by Argus Tracking to help businesses identify risks, measure fleet maturity, and modernise their operations.

To explore the full model and its dimensions, visit our dedicated FIRM resource.

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Why Argus Developed the Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling Framework

Let us share the story behind FIRM and how this game-changing framework came to life.

For more than 18 years, Argus Tracking has worked alongside fleet managers and businesses of every size and industry across New Zealand. Throughout that time, one thing has remained clear: managing a fleet is as much about managing risk as it is about managing vehicles and drivers.

Many fleet managers invest in the latest technologies because they sound innovative, only to discover that these tools do not always address their most pressing operational challenges. Often, those challenges are linked to avoidable risks such as financial losses, compliance breaches or safety incidents on the road.

This disconnect exists because most fleet managers have never had a clear way to assess the maturity level of their fleet. Until now, there has been no structured framework that defines what “good” looks like at each stage of the fleet development journey or how to progress with purpose.

To bridge this gap, Argus Tracking has developed the Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) framework, a strategic roadmap built specifically for modern fleet leaders. It enables businesses to identify their current level of fleet maturity, understand the risks holding them back, and make clear, data-driven decisions on what to focus on next and to improve overall performance, compliance, and safety.

Every decision a fleet manager makes,
whether related to
driver safety, maintenance, investment, or technology,
ultimately ties back to risk management.

FIRM views fleet management entirely through the lens of risk, described through data intelligence delivered by Argus. Understanding these risks and the data, and then prioritising them in the right order gives leaders a competitive advantage to help reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and build greater business resilience.

More than a management tool, FIRM is a leadership framework designed to help fleet managers think strategically, gain organisational influence, and progress their careers.

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The Benefits of Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling

The value of FIRM lies in its clarity and practicality. It is not about purchasing more expensive technology. It is about knowing what to do next, in the right order, for your fleet’s specific maturity stage.

1. Clarity on Risk Hotspots

   FIRM highlights the most common risks in fleet management according to specific maturity stages, from lost vehicles and poor driver behaviour to compliance gaps or increased costs and lost revenue. By visualising risk areas, managers can act early, preventing issues before they become costly problems.

2. A Practical Roadmap for Modernisation

   FIRM provides a clear, structured path for progress. It defines the actions required to move from foundational fleet control to advanced, data-driven operations, allowing teams to focus on staged measurable goals rather than temporary fixes. It also helps in those internal planning conversations to provide a coherent and staged progression which everyone can understand.

3. Smarter Investment Decisions

   By mapping current capabilities, FIRM helps managers invest where it matters most. Instead of adding another tool too early or to an already complex system, you can allocate budget to technologies that deliver the greatest impact for your maturity stage.

4. Data-Driven Leadership

   The framework integrates telematics insights into every dimension, empowering managers to make evidence-based decisions that connect operational performance with broader business objectives. Something the bean-counters will love.

5. Strategic Alignment

   FIRM creates a shared language across departments such as fleet, finance, compliance, sales and leadership. This alignment ensures that everyone is working toward clear, data-supported goals.

Together, these benefits help organisations build fleets that are safer, more efficient, and ready for the connected future.

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How FIRM Elevates the Role of the Fleet Manager

While FIRM clearly benefits businesses, it also transforms how fleet managers are recognised and valued within their organisations.

1. Recognition

   The FIRM framework introduces measurable stages of maturity that make progress visible. A fleet manager can confidently demonstrate achievements such as:

   “I have moved our fleet from Dimension 3 (Operational Control) to Dimension 5 (Driver Performance).”

   This visibility enhances credibility and highlights tangible business results.

2. Positioning

   By using FIRM, fleet managers evolve from operational coordinators to strategic, data-driven leaders. They can engage with senior leadership on equal footing, using evidence to support decisions about investment, safety, and sustainability while scaling operations in the most effective and controlled way.

3. Forward Trajectory

   FIRM supports long-term career resilience. As the industry adopts artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), and IoT-connected assets, fleet managers who understand FIRM will already be prepared to lead these transformations confidently.

FIRM strengthens both
fleet performance and professional growth,
turning fleet managers into
strategic advisors of modern mobility.

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From Framework to Action: Argus Tracking in Practice

Where most telematics providers simply supply data, Argus Tracking focusses on turning information into insights to drive meaningful action.

Every dimension of FIRM aligns with real, measurable solutions available through the Argus Tracking platform. Here’s how it works:

1D Asset Awareness:

Your ability to know exactly which vehicles and assets are in the fleet, where they are, and their current status.

• Core Risk: Losing visibility of vehicles and not knowing where assets are.

• Argus Solutions: GPS Vehicle Tracking

2D Fleet Safety:

Protecting your drivers, vehicles and cargo from accidents, theft and unsafe conditions.

• Core Risk: Accidents, theft (vehicle, cargo, petrol, time), or harm to drivers without the ability to respond quickly.

• Argus Solutions: Fatigue Reports, Lone Worker Protection, Panic Button, Rollover Sensor, GPS Vehicle Tracking (theft recovery)

3D Regulatory Compliance:

Ensuring your fleet operations meet all legal, safety and licensing requirements to avoid penalties or downtime.

• Core Risk: Risk of fines (WoF, RUC, Rego) and audits due to compliance gaps.

• Argus Solutions: Alerts for WOF / COF / RUC / Rego / Maintenance scheduling and digital compliance logs

4D Operational Control:

Overseeing day-to-day fleet activities such as routes, scheduling and vehicle availability, to keep operations running smoothly.

• Core Risk: Chaos in daily operations leading to inefficiency, downtime, increased costs and lost revenue.

• Argus Solutions: Argus Dashboard & Reports, Route Planning & Optimisation, Maintenance Reminder Alerts

5D Driver Performance:

Monitoring and improving driver behaviour to enhance safety, efficiency and brand reputation.

• Core Risk: Unsafe or inefficient driver behaviour driving up costs and risks.

• Argus Solutions: Fleet Behaviour Insights, Driver ID, Argus Vision AI Dashcam (Coaching Evidence), Driver Training (External Integrations)

6D Financial Control:

Proactively monitoring and controlling fleet expenses to manage budgets and prevent overspending.

• Core Risk: Runaway costs eating into margins.

• Argus Solutions: Fuel Watch, Utilisation Report, RUC Collect

7D Fleet Optimisation:

Leveraging data and analytics to improve fleet efficiency, reduce downtime, and maximise output with available resources.

• Core Risk: Fleet under-delivering compared to investment.

• Argus Solutions: Pool Booking, Fuel Watch (analytical layer), Utilisation Report (downtime analysis, right-sizing insights)

8D Technology Readiness:

Evaluating and adopting the right technologies to stay competitive and prepare for future demands, including building out a tech ecosystem to benefit the whole of your business.

• Core Risk: Falling behind competitors by not adopting the right technology.

• Argus Solutions: Smart ERUCs, Argus Vision AI Dashcam, External Integrations

9D Vehicle Connectivity:

Preparing for the future of connected vehicles, IoT data, and smart infrastructure integration.

• Core Risk: Missing opportunities by being unprepared for connected fleets.

• Argus Solutions: We’re committed to advancing vehicle connectivity through IoT innovation, with exciting new solutions on the horizon… stay tuned!

FIRM provides you the roadmap, Argus Tracking delivers the tools and expertise to follow it effectively.

Argus also offers free consultations to help your business identify your fleet maturity stage and uncover the risks most relevant to your operations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• What framework helps fleet managers measure and improve fleet risk and performance?

  Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) identifies and helps you manage risks based on your fleet’s current capabilities. It helps pinpoint common vulnerabilities and provides a step-by-step roadmap to build safer and more efficient operations.

• How will AI and connected technology shape the future of fleet telematics?

  As described in the ninth dimension of Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM), Vehicle Connectivity, AI, IoT and smart infrastructure are already starting to transform fleet telematics. The main risk is missing opportunities by underpreparing for connected fleets. This is where Argus Tracking helps fleets stay future ready.

• How can I identify and reduce operational risks in my fleet?

  By mapping your fleet’s maturity stage with Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM), you can identify high-risk areas and take targeted steps to address them. Argus Tracking offers tailored solutions for every dimension, ensuring all fleets benefit regardless of their current maturity level.

• How do fleet managers prove the ROI of telematics and tracking systems?

  Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) connects telematics insights directly to business outcomes such as fuel savings, uptime, compliance, and driver performance, making ROI measurable and credible.

• How can fleet managers prepare their operations for the next wave of fleet innovation?

  Using the Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) roadmap, you can assess your fleet’s current maturity, identify the capabilities required for new technologies, and ensure your operations are ready for connected, autonomous and sustainable mobility.

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Summary

Fleet Intelligence Risk Modelling (FIRM) by Argus Tracking represents a major evolution in how fleets are measured and managed. It is the first framework globally that combines telematics data, risk intelligence, and practical strategy to create safer, more efficient, and future-ready operations and fleets.

For fleet managers, FIRM provides a clear path to greater recognition, smarter leadership, and long-term career growth.

For organisations, it delivers clarity, efficiency, and confidence in every operational decision.

FIRM is not just about managing vehicles. It is about leading with intelligence.

To discover your fleet’s maturity stage and uncover your biggest opportunities for improvement, book a free consultation with Argus Tracking today.

GPS Fleet Tracking in NZ: Why Accuracy Matters and How Argus Tracking Leads the Way

Why Data Accuracy Matters for Fleet Management

Running a fleet is all about making smart decisions, and the quality of those decisions depends on the quality of your data. With accurate insights, you can make confident choices that keep your fleet efficient, your costs under control, and your customers satisfied. On the other hand, even a few minutes of downtime, inaccurate location data, or incomplete reporting can create ripple effects across operations. Delayed deliveries, higher fuel costs, frustrated customers, and increased safety risks are just some of the consequences. This is why precision in GPS fleet tracking is a vital part of successful operations.

Fleet managers across New Zealand choose Argus Tracking because of our commitment to delivering high-precision telematics. Our solutions combine trusted international partnerships with cutting-edge in-house software, all offered at an affordable price. We believe the latest technology should be accessible to every business.

In this blog, we explore how GPS tracking works, how our partnership with Geotab enables us to provide world-class telematics, and why Argus has earned a reputation for offering some of the most accurate GPS fleet tracking solutions in New Zealand. Let’s dive in!

How Does GPS Tracking Work?

GPS (Global Positioning System) is part of the wider Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). These satellites orbit Earth and work together to figure out the exact position of a receiver on the ground. To lock onto a location, a GPS tracker needs signals from at least four satellites.

Argus Tracking takes it further. Our system connects with a minimum of eight satellites for popular fleet management features such as speeding events and risk points, giving managers the extra accuracy they value most. For day-to-day travel data, four satellites are enough to keep your fleet reliably tracked. Whether your vehicles are moving through Auckland’s central business district or driving across rural South Island roads, Argus provides the reliable location data you can depend on.

What Can the Latest GPS Technology Do?

Modern telematics goes far beyond placing dots on a map. Today’s systems turn raw vehicle movements into meaningful business insights that help fleets run smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

The Curve Algorithm Advantage

Argus Tracking partners with Geotab, one of the world’s leading providers of GPS hardware. Together, we deliver technology that goes beyond simple tracking, turning vehicle movements into actionable business insights.

The breakthrough lies in Geotab’s patented Curve Algorithm. Unlike older devices that record data at fixed times or distances (for example, every 30 seconds or 500 metres), the Curve Algorithm captures data whenever the vehicle changes speed, direction, or behaviour.

Think of it like drawing a trip on paper:

• Traditional trackers place dots at fixed intervals and connect them with straight lines. If a vehicle turns a corner, the map may suggest it drove straight through a building.

• Curve logging is smarter. It adds dots at every change, so the path reflects the true journey - every turn, stop, and acceleration.

This richer dataset gives fleet managers a detailed, accurate picture of each trip. It highlights idling time, harsh braking, unnecessary detours, and smooth, efficient driving alike.

By combining Geotab’s world-class hardware, the GO9 unit, with Argus Tracking’s intuitive Dashboard software, we transform vehicle data into clear actions. Businesses gain the insights they need to strengthen fleet safety, cut fuel costs, and boost productivity across their operations.

Why Argus Recommends the Geotab GO9

At Argus, we choose technology that delivers real value for fleets. That’s why we recommend the Geotab GO9 unit as our hardware of choice.

The GO9 is recognised globally for its accuracy. Its high-frequency GPS logging ensures vehicles remain visible in real time, with reliable coverage even in busy cities or remote areas. For fleet managers, this means confidence in knowing exactly where vehicles are and how they’re being driven.

What makes the GO9 especially powerful is its direct connection to the vehicle’s OBD port. The OBD port is the standard diagnostic interface found in modern vehicles, which some people call it the “brain of the vehicle” because it stores vital information about performance, health, and efficiency. By plugging into this port, the GO9 collects a wide range of insights, from fuel usage and engine diagnostics to idling time and driver behaviours such as speeding or harsh braking.

This combination of precise GPS tracking and rich vehicle data gives Argus customers complete visibility of their fleet. Paired with the Argus Dashboard, the GO9 transforms detailed data into practical actions that improve safety, reduce fuel costs, and boost productivity.

Why Customers Choose Argus Tracking

Argus Tracking has been supporting Kiwi businesses for almost 20 years, and in that time, we have grown to become New Zealand’s telematics leader. Customers tell us they choose Argus for many reasons, but here are the three we hear most often from those who have recently joined us.

1. Proven Technology
   Through our strategic partnership with Geotab, Argus provides some of the most accurate GPS vehicle tracking available in New Zealand. Geotab’s world-class hardware, combined with our local expertise, gives customers reliable, real-time data they can count on to manage their fleets with confidence.
   
   

2. Affordable and Innovative Software
   Technology is only as good as the insights it delivers. That is why our Argus Dashboard is designed to make complex telematics data easy to understand. Anyone in your organisation can start using it straight away without needing technical training. The Dashboard also includes industry benchmarking tools so you can see how your fleet stacks up, helping you improve performance, reduce costs, increase revenue, and achieve measurable ROI.
   
   

3. Local Customer Support
   With Argus, you are never on your own. Our friendly support team is based right here in New Zealand and is only a phone call or email away whenever you need a hand. You will also have access to step-by-step online guides and resources so you can get the most out of your Argus solutions with confidence.
   

Get in touch with us today and see how our products and Dashboard look and perform in practice!

FAQs: Common Questions

• How accurate is Argus GPS tracking?

  Argus delivers highly accurate GPS fleet tracking in New Zealand through the GeotabGO9 unit, powered by Curve technology and connections to multiple satellites. You can read more about how it works in this blog article!

• Is Argus Tracking suitable for small businesses?

  Absolutely. Whether you have a single vehicle or a fleet of hundreds, Argus solutions scale to fit your needs. Our software is easy to use, so small businesses can get started quickly, while larger organisations benefit from powerful insights across their entire fleet.

• What industries benefit most from Argus?

  Argus supports a wide range of industries including construction, healthcare, government, agriculture, logistics, service-based businesses and more. In fact, any organisation that operates vehicles or fleets can benefit from improved efficiency, lower costs, and greater safety with Argus solutions.

• How is Argus different from cheaper GPS providers?

  Many low-cost devices provide little more than basic location tracking. Argus goes further by combining high-precision hardware with innovative software to deliver deep insights into driver behaviour, fuel efficiency, and fleet compliance. This means you gain real value that helps your business perform better, not just a dot on a map.

Argus Tracking: Premium Technology for Smarter Fleets

Reliable data is the key to smarter fleet management, and that is exactly what Argus Tracking delivers. Through our long-standing support of Kiwi businesses and our strategic partnership with Geotab, we bring world-class GPS hardware and innovative software together to give fleets complete visibility and control.

With nearly 20 years of experience, Argus has earned the trust of businesses across New Zealand. Customers value our proven technology, intuitive Argus Dashboard, and dedicated local support team who are always ready to help.

Most importantly, we believe the best technology should be accessible to everyone. That is why Argus offers premium telematics solutions at an affordable price point, helping businesses of all sizes improve safety, reduce costs, and increase productivity.

If you are ready to see how Argus Tracking can transform your fleet, we would love to show you!

RUC Law Change in New Zealand: Biggest Road Funding Shake-Up in 50 Years and What It Means for Your Fleet

Biggest change to how we fund our roading network in 50 years

In August 2025, the New Zealand Government confirmed that by around 2027, all light vehicles, including petrol cars, will pay Road User Charges (RUC) through a fully digital system. This marks the end of the traditional petrol tax and the beginning of a distance-based model for funding road maintenance.

This announcement follows earlier changes in April 2024, when electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) began paying RUC for the first time. But the August 2025 decision goes much further: it will eventually bring all 3.5 million light vehicles in New Zealand into a single, modernised RUC system.

For everyday drivers, this will mean a shift away from paying at the petrol station to paying based on kilometres driven. For fleet managers, it represents a major compliance shift and an opportunity to embrace Argus’ Smart ERUCs solutions, which simplify operations, reduce costs, and eliminate paperwork.

In this blog, we’ll cover what the new law means for drivers and fleets, the considerations being discussed, and how Argus Tracking can support businesses through the transition.

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What Is RUC and Why Is It Changing?

How RUC Works Today

Currently, New Zealand has a dual system for road funding:

1. Petrol vehicles pay a fuel excise tax (about 70 cents per litre) at the petrol station, which goes toward maintaining roads.

2. Diesel vehicles, EVs, PHEVs, and heavy vehicles pay RUC based on distance travelled, using either paper licences on windscreens or electronic systems (ERUCs).

Why Is the Change Happening?

The government says the current model is no longer sustainable, mainly because:

• Electric vehicle adoption is growing: EVs don’t use petrol, so they bypass fuel tax completely under the old system.

• Petrol vehicles are becoming more fuel-efficient, which reduces excise revenue.

• Road maintenance costs are rising, and funding is no longer keeping pace with demand.

In short, the government’s plan is to create one fair system where road costs are tied to the distance you drive, whether your car runs on petrol, diesel, or electricity.

Factors Still Being Discussed

While the new system is widely seen as fairer and more modern, a few points are still being discussed:

• Fewer incentives: Some say this reduces financial perks for low-emission vehicles such as EVs.

• Practical details: How payments and providers will work is still being defined.

• Adjustment period: Drivers new to RUC may take time to adapt.

Overall, industry groups recognise that a unified, digital-first RUC system is the right step forward. For businesses and fleets, these discussions highlight why it’s important to plan ahead and why choosing the right RUC management partner, like Argus Tracking, matters - and the earlier you can do this, the more prepared you will be.

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How Does the New Law Affect Everyday Kiwi Drivers Like You?

The change impacts all drivers, not just businesses. Here are the major points:

1. EVs and PHEVs Already Paying RUC

• Since 1 April 2024, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have been required to pay RUC.

• Rates are currently $76 per 1,000 km for BEVs and $38 per 1,000 km for PHEVs (discounted for partial petrol use).
  

2. A Digital-First System Is Coming

• The current paper-based system of RUC licences and windscreen stickers is being phased out.

• According to the recent announcement, by 2027, the government plans to have a fully digital RUC system in place, with electronic records instead of physical labels.

• This means, no more lost paper licences, no stickers on windscreens, and fewer trips to the Post Office.
  

3. Petrol Vehicles Will Also Move to RUC

• Petrol-powered light vehicles will transition away from paying fuel excise duty (FED) at the petrol station and instead pay RUC based on distance travelled.

• NZTA will step back from selling licences directly. Under the new framework, NZTA will step back from being both regulator and retailer, opening the way for approved third-party providers to manage RUC.
  

Example for Drivers

• A petrol hatchback owner who currently pays through fuel tax will, by 2027, pay RUC per kilometre instead.

• An EV driver already paying RUC today will simply move onto the same streamlined digital platform as everyone else.

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What Does This Mean for Fleet Managers Across New Zealand?

For fleet managers, the RUC law change is a fundamental shift in daily compliance and cost management. With a fully digital system, paper licences will vanish, NZTA will step back from direct sales, and every vehicle in your fleet (petrol, diesel, or electric) will fall under the same framework.

Planning ahead is critical. Fleets that prepare with Argus Tracking will be in the best position to take advantage of digital tools and streamlined reporting, while minimising compliance risks.

Key Implications for Fleet Managers

1. Unified RUC Across Mixed Fleets
   By 2027, petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles will all fall under the same RUC system. This creates a single, consistent approach to compliance across your entire fleet.
   
   

2. End of NZTA Point-of-Sale
   With NZTA stepping back from selling licences directly, fleet managers will need to work with approved providers. Argus Tracking offers integrated solutions to simplify this transition today.
   
   

3. Less Paperwork
   The removal of paper licences will streamline compliance, while Argus Tracking’s Smart ERUCs go further by automating the entire RUC process to keep fleets compliant and prevent costly manual compliance errors.
   
   

4. Cash Flow Flexibility
   The move to digital RUC is expected to introduce flexible payment options, such as monthly billing and consolidated invoicing. This will give businesses better control and forecasting ability.
   
   

5. Adopting the Right Tools Early
   Automating RUC with Smart ERUCs is essential for modern fleet management. Early adoption reduces administrative workload, eliminates compliance risks, and ensures fleets are ready for the 2027 changes.

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How Argus Tracking Can Support You

At Argus Tracking, we’ve always focused on making compliance and reporting simple, reliable, and stress-free. With the upcoming RUC law changes, our Smart ERUC solution is designed to keep fleets ahead of the curve.

Why Choose Smart ERUCs from Argus?

1. Stay Compliant Without Costly Mistakes
   Manual licence management is prone to errors that can result in fines or downtime. Smart ERUCs update instantly whenever RUCs are purchased, ensuring your fleet is always displaying the correct and current licence.
   

2. Cut Out the Paperwork
   No more waiting for licences to be delivered, sorting through paperwork, or manually distributing stickers to each vehicles. With Smart ERUCs, the process is fully automated, giving your team more time to focus on higher-value tasks that grow the business.
   
   

3. Smart, Practical Hardware
   Our NZTA-approved display screens are compact, energy-efficient, and easy to mount on the windscreen. For vehicle distance tracking, our GPS tracking measures distance with precision, offering a more affordable and reliable alternative to e-hubos. No external power or constant connectivity required.
   

4. Future-Proofed for the 2027 Shift
   With petrol vehicles joining the RUC system by 2027, now is the time to get ahead. Argus Smart ERUCs are designed to scale across diesel, EV, PHEV, and soon petrol fleets, so you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
   

Device Key Features:

• Auto-update RUC purchases with NZTA.

• Are wireless, SIM-enabled, and self-installing (no technical expertise needed).

• Connect your vehicles within minutes, keeping them compliant from day one.

With Argus, your fleet will be compliant, efficient, and future-ready without the stress of system overhauls later.

Learn more about Smart ERUCs and download our info-sheet from below.

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Summary

New Zealand’s RUC law change represents the biggest shift in road funding in 50 years. EVs and PHEVs began paying RUC in 2024, and by 2027 petrol vehicles will also transition from fuel tax to a digital, distance-based charging system.

This marks the end of fuel tax and the beginning of distance-based road charges. For fleet managers, it opens the door to new compliance standards, digital-first systems, and smarter ways to streamline operations.

At Argus Tracking, we’re ready to help fleets prepare now. Our Smart ERUCs solutions reduce costs, eliminate paperwork, and future-proof your operations so you remain compliant and efficient as the new system rolls out.

Ready to simplify RUC compliance? Get in touch with our friendly team at Argus Tracking today about preparing your fleet for the road ahead.

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FAQs: RUC Law Change in New Zealand

Q: Do petrol cars pay RUC now?
A: No. Petrol vehicles still pay fuel excise at the petrol station. They’ll move to RUC around 2027.

Q: What happens to paper RUC licences?
A: They are planned to be phased out. From 2027, all records will be digital.

Q: How much will RUC cost me?
A: It depends on your vehicle type and how far you drive. Currently, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) pay $76 per 1,000 km and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) pay $38 per 1,000 km. Rates for petrol vehicles will be set closer to rollout in 2027.

Q: Do fleet managers need new systems?
A: Most likely, yes. With the RUC system moving fully digital, NZTA is opening the door for private providers to deliver electronic RUC solutions. Once paper licences are phased out, fleet managers will need to adopt a Smart ERUCs or a similar service to remain compliant.

How to Show Leadership the Value of Fleet Management

In today’s tough economic climate, every department is being asked to do more with less, and fleet operations are no exception. As a trusted partner to organisations of all sizes and industries across New Zealand, Argus hears the same question from time to time:

“How do I show my leadership the value of fleet management?”

If you're a fleet manager or responsible for vehicles and operations, you may be feeling the pressure to defend your budget, justify your daily tools, or even explain the importance of your role. But the good news is that with telematics in place, you already have the insights needed to clearly show the value your fleet delivers.

At Argus, we help fleet professionals like you turn raw data into real-world impact. This blog will show you how to use the insights from your Argus reports to confidently demonstrate your value to leadership.

Why Fleet Management Matters to the Whole Business

Fleet management isn’t just about keeping vehicles on the road. It touches almost every corner of the business including cost control, compliance, safety, sustainability, and customer service. Done right, it can become a genuine competitive advantage.

With the right story and the right data (like the insights you already get from Argus), you can show leadership how you’re:

• Cutting costs through better utilisation and fuel efficiency

• Reducing risk with safer driving and automated compliance

• Contributing to big-picture goals like sustainability and digitisation

And importantly, you can present this in a language that leadership understands.

Focus on the Metrics That Matter Most

Executives don’t just want data, they want insights that align with business objectives. That means focusing on high-level outcomes and ROI. Here are some key areas to highlight:

1. Operational Cost Savings

Use your Argus data to highlight:

• Reduction in fuel usage

• Fewer unnecessary trips from route optimisation reports

• Lower maintenance costs through timely service alerts

• Opportunities to reduce fleet size through vehicle utilisation analysis

Here’s what one of our customers had to say about this: "I reduced fuel costs by 14% last quarter by identifying fuel usage inefficiencies and rerouting based on GPS location data. Automated service alerts also cut maintenance costs by $XX, ensuring 100% of vehicles were serviced on time.”

2. Fleet Utilisation

Leadership often want to know whether corporate assets are being used effectively. These factors often draw attention to questions like:

• How many vehicles are actively used each day/ week?

• Which vehicles are underutilised?

• Where are the opportunities to consolidate or share fleet resources?

Tips: Argus Utilisation Reports highlight vehicle downtime, making it easy to spot operational inefficiencies. Paired with our Pool Booking solution, you can proactively manage underused vehicles through reallocation or shared use.

One recent customer told us: "25% of our vehicles are used less than 3 days a week. I can reduce our fleet size by 10 vehicles, saving $XX annually."

3. Driver Behaviour & Risk Management

Unsafe driving affects employment safety and insurance costs. With Argus you can highlight:

• Speeding and risk points

• Driver safety scores compared to national average (exclusive data provided by Argus!)

• Reduced incidents, fines, and claims

A grateful customer told us: "Since launching driver coaching based on Argus data, I have seen a 40% drop in speeding events."

4. Compliance & Downtime Reduction

Missed RUCs, WOFs, COFs, or vehicle services can lead to unexpected downtime and fines. Let Argus help you avoid this through our:

• Automated reminders ensuring nothing slips through the cracks

• Automating the entire RUC process eliminating manual handling and reducing admin time

• Smarter scheduling reducing surprise breakdowns and unplanned repairs

Tips: Learn more about Smart ERUCs HERE

Another successful customer informed us: "I have maintained 100% WOF and COF compliance for 18 months, avoiding $XX in potential fines and unplanned downtime."

5. Sustainability & EV Readiness

If your organisation has sustainability targets, this might be your time to shine using Argus as your reporting tool to show you:

• Emissions reports pulled straight from telematics data

• Plans or simulations for EV transition using real usage data

• Numerically show how much fuel consumption you’ve reduced

Tips: Through our partnership with Power Trip, Argus can help you plan and create an EV transition strategy for your fleet.

We heard recently from a customer: "I have managed to reduce our average vehicle CO2 emissions by 11% over the past year."

Speak Their Language: Turn Data into Executive Insight

Now that you have the data, the best way to get leadership on board is to speak their language. That means focusing on outcomes, not just activities.

• Cost savings: "We saved $XX"

• Efficiency: "We’re doing more with less"

• Risk mitigation: "We’ve reduced exposure to [X]"

• Corporate goals: "This supports our sustainability/digital roadmap"

Visuals help. Use charts, dashboards, and clear summaries – all easily exported from Argus! Avoid technical terms unless your audience knows them. Keep it clean, concise, and focused on outcomes that matter to the broader business, and especially your leadership team.

Be Ready for the Tough Questions

To help you even further, we’ve collated some of the questions we regularly hear from the leadership teams we work with:

• Can we reduce the number of vehicles in the fleet?

• What return are we getting from our telematics investment?

• How are we improving safety?

• Should we consider EV transition?

Argus reports give you the data to confidently answer all of these. Use them to track improvements, make comparisons over time, and show how your decisions are driving real value.

User our free ROI calculator to discover how much you could save with Argus or get in touch with your Account Manager today!

What Sets Great Fleet Managers Apart?

From what we've seen, the fleet managers who consistently earn leadership’s trust and support have two habits in common:

1.They’re Proactive Problem-Solvers

They not only report the numbers, but they also recommend action:

• Suggest phasing out underutilised vehicles

• Propose changes based on fuel and route data

• Show how a modest investment could lead to bigger savings

It shows you're not just maintaining the status quo, you're always thinking ahead and improving the organisation.

2.They Collaborate Across the Business

Great fleet leaders don’t seem to work in silos. They make sure to:

• Partner with finance to align cost metrics

• Work with health & safety teams to track risk improvements

• Help sustainability teams track emissions and plan EV rollouts

This cross-functional mindset earns respect and reinforces your role as a strategic contributor.

Final Thoughts: Your Role Is Strategic. Make Sure They See It!

Fleet managers are problem-solvers, data champions, and crucial to operational success. But leadership won’t always know that unless you show them.

Use your Argus data not just to manage vehicles, but to tell the story of your impact. Share the wins. Back your decisions with numbers. And let your reports speak the language that matters in the boardroom.

At Argus Tracking, we’re here to help you get the most from your data. If you’re preparing a report or getting ready to share insights with leadership, we’re more than happy to show you where to find the key metrics that matter on the Argus dashboard, and how to turn them into meaningful stories. You've got the tools, and we’re here to help you make the most of them!

Current Argus Customers: Reach out to your Account Managers HERE

New to Argus? Get in touch with our friendly team and explore the powerful data and insights we can provide for your fleet!

What’s More Expensive: A Dashcam or Not Knowing the Truth?

Why Video Telematics Is the Future of Fleet Management

If your fleet is already using GPS vehicle tracking and fleet management software, you're ahead of the game. Real-time location tracking, driver behaviour insights, and automated NZTA compliance are the backbone of efficient operations.

But there’s a new standard emerging that’s reshaping how smart fleets operate: Video Telematics. This is the beginning of 4D GPS vehicle tracking.

With rising insurance costs, increased compliance requirements, and greater demand for road safety, video telematics gives fleet managers something they’ve never had before—full visibility into what really happened.

In this blog, we’ll break down:

• What video telematics is

• The difference between GPS tracking and video-enabled insights

• Key benefits for fleet managers (like driver exoneration)

• Why the Argus Vision AI Dashcam is your next must-have fleet solution

What Is Video Telematics?

Video telematics combines high-quality dashcam footage with GPS vehicle tracking and telematics data to provide a complete view of your fleet’s activity, both on the road and inside the vehicle. This hybrid approach offers real-time visual context to events like harsh braking, speeding, and collisions.

Instead of just reading data points, you see the full story, helping reduce false claims, coach drivers more effectively, and speed up incident resolution.

GPS Vehicle Tracking vs Video Telematics: What's the Difference?

GPS vehicle tracking has long been the foundation of smart fleet management. It gives you real-time location data, route optimisation, driver behaviour monitoring, and cost-saving insights that are essential to running an efficient, compliant, and safe fleet.

Now, video telematics builds on that foundation, offering additional clarity and context through high-definition video footage and AI-powered insights.

Think of it as more than an either-or, it’s next-level visibility. It’s 4D GPS tracking.

Here’s how they work together:

By combining GPS vehicle tracking with video telematics, you get a more complete picture of your fleet’s performance. It allows you to make faster decisions, support your drivers better, and protect your business with real-time evidence.

Three Key Benefits of Video Telematics

Integrating a fleet dashcam like the Argus Vision AI Dashcam unlocks powerful new capabilities for commercial fleets:

1. Safer Driving and Better Coaching

   Our built-in AI detects fatigue, distraction, and unsafe behaviour so you can take proactive action before incidents occur. Use real video clips for more effective driver training and feedback.

2. Faster Incident Resolution and Fewer False Claims

   Dashcam video with timestamped GPS data provides clear, reliable evidence in seconds. This significantly reduces time-consuming investigations or costly disputes, and more importantly protects your team with driver exoneration when they’re not at fault.

3. Greater Accountability and Cost Control

   With eyes inside and outside the vehicle, you gain unparalleled visibility that reduces fuel waste, improving asset utilisation, and creating a stronger culture of accountability.

Why Choose Argus for Video Telematics?

Argus Vision AI Dashcam is a premium fleet dashcam designed specifically for commercial fleets. It’s 4D tracking in action!

Key features include:

• Crystal-clear video quality

• Dual lens system for monitoring both the road and driver

• Built-in AI for real-time driver expressions and behaviour monitoring

• Seamless integration with your Argus dashboard

• GPS tracking with live data and historical playback

• Automated incident detection and recording

• And more!

What truly sets us apart in the market is affordability without compromise. Argus delivers a high-performance video telematics solution at a significantly lower price point than many comparable options without sacrificing functionality.

Is Video Telematics Right for Your Fleet?

If any of the following apply to your fleet, it’s time to consider upgrading your fleet technology:

• You’ve dealt with claims or incidents with no clear evidence

• You’re focused on improving driver safety

• You want better insight into daily operations

• You’re aiming to reduce insurance costs and liability

• You’re building a culture of safety and responsibility

Video telematics is not just a “nice-to-have”. It’s the new standard for responsible, data-driven fleet management. And if you're already using GPS vehicle tracking and a fleet platform like Argus, the Argus Vision AI Dashcam is the next natural step – we’re moving you from 3D to 4D GPS Vehicle Tracking.

Contact Argus today to book your FREE product demo and see how video telematics can transform your fleet operations!