The paperwork is over, and whether you like it or not, you need to install an electronic logging device such as VDO RoadLog ELD in your truck as soon as possible. The 2019 mandate requires that all commercial vehicles, passenger and freight transport companies have a daily logs recorded in an e-log device.
If you have a fleet of cars or a truck driver, and you do the job, this might be the right product for you. The VDO RoadLog ELD is easy to use, convenient and inexpensive. First of all, it complies with all FMCSA regulations and rules, as well as all exceptions concerning Hours of Service.
You will find a long list of products that comply with the regulations and have excellent properties. This RoadLog ELD review will show you how the it stands out as the perfect electronic logging device.
Read on to see if this is the eld device for you.
VDO RoadLog Company Overview
Table of Contents
VDO RoadLog is a product of Continental AG, one of Europe’s leading car manufacturers specialising in tyres, transmissions, internal electronics, braking systems and vehicle safety.
The entire range of spare parts and components for the automotive industry is also available. In addition, this German company offers software systems that meet legal requirements, including more than 6 million logging devices. They are used all over the world.
The company was founded in 1871 as a rubber manufacturer. It is worth noting that Continental AG is the fourth largest tyre manufacturer in the world. In 2007, the company acquired the Siemens VDO auto unit and five years later took third place in OEM auto parts sales. All this should give you a better idea of the type of company behind RoadLog ELD.
The VDO RoadLog device is designed and developed specifically for the North American commercial vehicle market to provide owners, operators and fleets with a safe, simple and economical ELD solution. And Continental seems to have worked well with this electronic device.
VDO RoadLog ELD Device in a Nutshell
The VDO RoadLog is an electronic logging device that includes fleet management software for data archiving, log automation, IRP and IFTA mileage reporting. This may seem a bit complicated, but that’s actually what you get with this product.
This stand-alone device is a ready-to-use solution for reporting regulatory compliance. Vehicle data is combined with GPS data to create a digital logbook that drivers can print and download.
Note, however, that the VDO RoadLog is not only an ELD device. It is designed as a versatile fleet management tool – as a communication device, tracking device, electronic log and printer. Otherwise, you would need to purchase a separate data plan, software, tablet or mobile phone.
Main Features of VDO RoadLog ELD
If you have tried out similar devices and left them behind due to lack of features, you can be sure that you will not have this problem with the VDO RoadLog. It has many features, each of which has been carefully designed to be functional and convenient.
The main features of this system are as follows:
- Possibility to update the software in accordance with the new rules.
- Compatible with VDO fleet management software in accordance with FMCSA requirements.
- Plug and Play installation
- Built-in printer for quick roadside checks
It should be noted that none of the functions are mobile. This function is designed to support GPS positioning and communication with the main office.
It is contained in the VDO RoadLog Plus, a newer version of this electronic recorder that offers exactly the same features and capabilities as the ELD.
Status Updates
It’s all automated. The working condition of the berth, resting, driving and sleeping area is automatically monitored depending on the vehicle’s movement. The same applies to status updates.
When the driver approaches the HOS limits, the device automatically alerts you.
Capability for Data-Recording
In modern commercial transport, the possibilities of data collection are constantly expanding. In this context, Continental has integrated a large number of data collection functions into the VDO RoadLog system. These include, in particular
- Events related to vehicles
- Driver log
- Drive/stop status detection
- Control of the refueling process
- Shipping documents
- Trailer Assignment
- Total odometer
- Vehicle tracking
- Vehicle speed
- Monitoring reports
- Idling analysis
- Company log in/off
- Global positioning data acquisition
- Electrical and mechanical fault reports
- Possibility to create a map of the vehicle’s routes.
Ease of use
This device is not intended for scientists and computer scientists, but for drivers and their managers. However, it is designed to be simple and easy to use.
However, you will be the first in the training process. But don’t worry, it’s pretty easy to understand.
There are things that drivers should pay special attention to. For example, if a driver uses a Sleeper Berth status for another person, he or she has to pass to the passenger before starting to drive and present himself as an “active driver”.
It is also necessary to wait a few minutes before starting the journey to perform a “10 hour restart” or “30 minute break”.
Double-tapping the screen will activate night mode. And there are many other tricks you’ll find out when you discover the RoadLog VDO. As soon as you start working, the device works independently.
Printing Capabilities
As for the print function, this system is likely to exceed your expectations. The built-in thermal printer works great! You can easily print your protocols and DVIR.
Unlike standard printers, there is no need to fill up ink from time to time. Another advantage of the printer is that it is lightfast. The traditional grid display is very convenient.
The VDO RoadLog system makes it possible to print paper newspapers for truck drivers immediately. Paper logs are similar to traditional logs, so they are similar to what you know. Please note that the printer has its own proprietary roll size. However, you can restart the standard roll at any time if you want.
There is only one small thing to note. This leads to a waste of paper. In fact, every time you fill up the printer and insert it into it, a record of the printer is printed, and some of the paper is not printed correctly. Even if you press the Cancel button, it will still work.
Compliance with ELD Mandate and ELD Capabilities
The RoadLog ELD has successfully passed the FMCSA-compliant data transfer test, i.e. it is registered with FMCSA and guaranteed to meet the ELD requirements.
In addition, all software updates are free of charge. This allows users to maintain compliance with FMCSA requirements as rules change.
From an ELD perspective, RoadLog provides automatic mileage reports from IRP and IFTA, which specify the exact number of miles per staff.
The driver can record the results of the checks before and after the trip to the screen; this is called the Driver’s Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs). These reports then become an integral part of the journal.
The electronic logbook complies with U.S., Alaska, Canadian and Oilfield regulations.
Benefits of VDO RoadLog ELD
Competition is fierce. There are so many ELDs there. If you’re not sure why you should choose the VDO RoadLog, check out the following benefits:
- ELD functionality is available without a monthly fee or data network connection.
- Thanks to a variety of new services and products, it innovates in fleet management and log automation.
- The portfolio provides owners, operators and fleets with mobile and online connectivity.
- This solution not only improves the efficiency of fleet managers and drivers, but also significantly reduces the workload.
- With the implementation of this solution, the transfer of registration data to specialists will be very simple and fast.
- As a practical side effect, the system tracks your mileage for IFTA and IRP mileage reports. You do not need to check the logs to make sure they are correct.
- The VDO RoadLog system is 100% FMCSA ELD compliant.
- The RoadLog system in the truck saves you money at different levels.
- The list of benefits can be extended. But we think that’s enough.
Is VDO RoadLog ELD for my Fleet?
This product is mainly designed for operators and fleets. So if you are an independent owner-operator or manager responsible for organizing and monitoring your fleet, VDO RoadLog is the solution you are looking for.
Are you one of these people? In this case, you should definitely consider using the VDO RoadLog.
It doesn’t matter how big your fleet is, that is, how many cars and drivers you have. The VDO RoadLog system is suitable for both small and large fleets.
Thanks to this excellent system, your drivers will be able to check the MTOs and DOTs to make sure they never fail. Ultimately, this will increase your operational efficiency.
In fact, it is better suited for those who need an efficient and simple compliance solution than a high-end ELD with many advantages.
VDO RoadLog Driver & Fleet Key
There exists in various ways to protect data and control access. In this case, the database is protected by RoadLog USB drives and a password.
The technology developed by VDO provides secure data encryption for the transfer of information to the fleet key and vice versa. The digital signature guarantees the authenticity and integrity of all data. This means that no data other than those required by FMCSA can be transferred.
Have you chosen the “Solo” level at the VDO RoadLog office? You will then need VDO RoadLog driver keys for all your drivers and VDO RoadLog Fleet Key to activate your company.
VDO RoadLog Driver Key – With this key, you can connect and disconnect from the VDO RoadLog ELD. It can also be used to download the data from the online journal. When switching from one vehicle to another, the driver can use this key to transfer data. Please note that a driver’s identity must activate the driver’s key before it can be used.
VDO RoadLog Fleet Key
– If you have opened an account in VDO RoadLog Office, this key is required to activate your business. You can also use it as a pilot key if necessary.
Although such a solution ensures confidentiality and fully controls access, the driver card can be damaged. This can be a serious problem for fleets. If you have this problem and cannot solve it with technical support, ask VDO to send you a new key. Fortunately for you, they are willing to do it for free.
VDO RoadLog Pricing
One of the most attractive things about VDO RoadLog is that it is available without monthly fees. Users who prefer low monthly payments can choose to spread the cost of this system over 36 months.
This is possible if you choose the FlexPay program. After 36 months (3 years) the ELD is yours.
Several options are available to you:
- Advanced FlexPay
- FlexPay Premium
- FlexPay Solo
- FlexPay Solo with ELD Plus
Advantages:
- Exceptional ELD functionality
- Fast and reliable
- Easy to use and configure
- High precision
- Excellent printing function
- Good technical support
- Lowest price
- No monthly fees
Disadvantages:
- Driver Key can become bad can become bad can become bad can become bad for any reason, so you will have trouble synchronizing the keys with the program.
- Some users found it a little slow with comments and reactions.
Conclusion
While most people will choose this ELD solution simply because it is cheap and there are no monthly fees, the VDO RoadLog has much more to offer.
As you can see, it has extensive data collection capabilities and offers many advantages for both operators and fleets. This stand-alone all-in-one device has an integrated printer that allows drivers to print their logs on the go.
Reliable, safe, easy to use and affordable. The VDO RoadLog is primarily FMCSA registered, which means that compliance with the ELD mandate is guaranteed. Access and take your operational efficiency to the next level.
