2G cellular networks are sunsetting; operators will be shutting down their 2G networks in the coming years. The 2G cellular network has already been switched off in some countries. This directly impacts fleets with telematics solutions that are still dependent on 2G cellular networks for data transmission. Upgrading to a 4G network opens up a world of opportunities for optimising your fleet performance even further. We asked Michiel Fox, Sales Manager at Moove, what the implications of the 2G sunset are.
The importance of a good data network for telematics
Built-in telematics hardware generates different types of data from vehicles. In addition to location tracking, it also assembles specific data such as motor management signals, seatbelt use, and data on driving behaviour. These data packets are then sent to the server. Moove’s solutions transfer the data from the server to the customer database, where customers can view their data using a personal log-in in the My Moove app. The data transmission takes place using the 2G, 3G and 4G cellular networks. The higher the frequency, the more efficient the data transfer.
Mobile data usage is skyrocketing. This means that 2G and 3G networks are less efficient when it comes to transferring large quantities of data. The EU therefore wants telecom providers in Europe to shut down their 2G networks to make more room for newer cellular technologies to maintain the quality of data traffic. It is expected that most telecom providers will also end 3G support in the foreseeable future.
Impact on fleet data
“The three largest Dutch telecom providers, KPN, Odido (formerly T-Mobile), and Vodafone, will simply throw the switch on 1 December 2025,” Michael explains. “But this will have an enormous impact on the customer base that is still dependent on the technology. The disappearance of 2G networks will mostly affect early adopters of telematics solutions. Moreover, municipal and emergency vehicles such as ambulances are built to last. Their built-in technology could be as old as eight years or even more. They still communicate solely using the 2G network and therefore will need to be replaced. This transition has already occurred in the United States; now it’s Europe’s turn.”
“There are even countries where 2G cellular networks are no longer active,” Michael continues. “In Switzerland, for example, vehicles that use 2G communication networks can no longer transmit data. When you manage an internationally operating fleet and your vehicles regularly cross borders where the 2G network is no longer operational, you lose track of that vehicle’s performance, which makes upgrading to a hardware solution that uses 4G cellular technology critical.”
Switching to a higher frequency for greater insight
When you switch to hardware solutions that communicate using 4G networks, you’re also making use of the many additional features that the latest telematics solutions offer. With an increased focus on driver safety, fleet sustainability and cost management, you can effectively and efficiently meet your needs for greater insight into fleet performance.
“Switching to telematics solutions that use advanced technology such as Moove provides great benefits,” says Michiel. “This gives you far greater insight into your drivers’ behaviour so you can reward proper driving behaviour within the organisation. More data on vehicle performance will help you get a better grip on your fleet’s operating costs and maintenance costs. Predictive data applications will lead to more efficient routes, and the latest technology will support fleet electrification. Moreover, the quality of new hardware is simply much better. Routes become leaner, and the data obtained becomes more accurate, giving you improved insights based on the data sent during routes.”
Would you like to learn more about what the transition to 4G communications can do for your fleet? Download our brochure to read about the benefits of our telematics solutions.
