These Tools Keep Winter Automotive Issues in Check
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Winter can prove to be a bit of a problem for anyone who drives a vehicle, let alone anyone who runs a fleet, because heavy snow, rain and ice can all make conditions tricky, if not impossible, even on the best roads.
But, you know what? You should try not to worry too much because these days, there are tons of tech heroes that can help you manage your vehicles and keep them safe, even when the weather is doing its best to get in your way! Sound good? Read on for more information on the best tech to employ when winter threatens your fleet management.
1. Power Snow Shovel: The MVP of Winter Clean-Up
Remember the old-fashioned snow shovel that left you with sore shoulders and a bad mood? It’s time to upgrade. The power snow shovel is like a handheld snowplow with the heart of a lion. These lightweight, motorized shovels clear snow faster than you can say “frozen windshield wipers.”
Perfect for clearing driveways, fleet parking lots or that annoying build-up behind your vehicle’s wheels, the power snow shovel turns a back-breaking task into a five-minute chore. That means tons of saved time for you. Plus, your drivers won’t have to show up late to work looking like they just wrestled a snowman. It’s a win-win.
2. GPS Tracking with Weather Alerts
Back in the day, drivers relied on “it looks fine out there” weather reports. But guess what? That’s a terrible strategy. Modern fleet managers use GPS tracking systems with built-in weather alerts to stay ahead of Mother Nature’s mood swings.
With real-time updates on road closures, icy patches, and unexpected snow squalls, you’ll know exactly when to reroute a delivery or when to keep your fleet grounded. Think of it as having a meteorologist in your dashboard—minus the awkward small talk.
3. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS): No More “Oops, It’s Flat” Moments
Snow isn’t just pretty; it’s also a pro at messing with your tire pressure. Colder weather makes tires lose air faster, which can lead to poor traction and that “oops, it’s flat” moment.
Enter tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), standard on most vehicles with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. These handy gadgets send real-time updates straight to your driver’s dashboard, letting them know when it’s time to add air. But the factory systems are not perfect, and some aftermarket systems can provide even more timely and useful information about what’s happening with your tires.
Properly inflated tires mean better grip, better fuel efficiency, and less chance of spinning out like a figure skater on a bad day.
4. Dash Cams with AI-Powered Safety Monitoring
If you’ve ever watched a driver’s dash cam footage, you’ve seen the wild world of winter driving: sliding sedans, rogue snowplows and drivers who still think “caution” is optional. Dash cams are no longer just about capturing funny internet clips—they’re essential for fleet safety.
The latest dash cams come with AI-powered safety features that detect dangerous driving behaviors like hard braking, sharp turns or, worse, drivers who’ve decided their phone is more interesting than the road. With these cameras, you’re not just collecting footage—you’re proactively preventing accidents.
5. Heated Side Mirrors and Windshield De-Icers
Raise your hand if you’ve ever had to “defrost” your side mirrors by wiping them off with a glove while praying no one drives by too fast. Not anymore! Heated side mirrors keep your drivers’ visibility crystal clear, even when Jack Frost is feeling feisty.
Pair that with windshield de-icers, which zap frost from the glass faster than your car’s defroster ever could. Your drivers can hit the road faster and safer, without waiting 20 minutes for their windshield to “maybe” clear up.
6. Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
If you’re driving in snow without anti-lock brakes (ABS) or electronic stability control (ESC), you’re basically playing Mario Kart on Rainbow Road. Both of these systems help prevent skidding, slipping, and unintentional “Tokyo Drift” moments on icy roads.
Most modern vehicles come with these features as standard, but if you’re managing an older fleet, it’s worth checking to see if upgrades are possible. It’s better than crossing your fingers and hoping for the best every time it snows.
7. Digital Fleet Management Software
Gone are the days of “Where’s Dave with the delivery?” texts. Modern fleet management software tracks every vehicle in real-time, from location to fuel usage to maintenance alerts. Add snow to the mix, and this system becomes a must-have.
Fleet managers can see which vehicles are stuck, which routes need to be avoided, and when to schedule maintenance before a small problem turns into a “call a tow truck” situation. It’s like having a bird’s-eye view of your entire fleet—even in a blizzard.
8. Remote Start Systems: Warm Up Without Freezing Up
No one wants to climb into a car that’s basically a walk-in freezer. Remote start systems let your drivers start the engine and warm up the cabin from the comfort of, well, anywhere. They’re toasty before they even step inside.
Not only does this make life more comfortable, but it’s also a safety boost. Warm engines run better, and defrosted windows mean better visibility—no more scraping away like an angry caveman before hitting the road.
9. All-Weather Floor Mats (Because Snow Melts Into Water, FYI)
Your fleet’s drivers will be stomping through snow, slush, and mystery puddles all winter long. Without proper floor mats, all that moisture turns into a swampy mess. All-weather floor mats keep water, mud and salt from seeping into your vehicle’s floors, preventing damage and mold growth.
They’re not “tech” in the high-tech sense, but if you’ve ever tried to clean melted snow out of a car’s carpet, you’ll know why they’re a must-have.
10. Cold-Weather Wiper Blades
Regular wiper blades are about as useful in snow as flip-flops in January. Cold-weather wiper blades are made from tough rubber that stays flexible in freezing temps. They’re also designed to resist snow buildup, which means no more “I can’t see” moments halfway through a snowstorm.
Make the swap before winter hits, and your drivers will thank you every time they’re not squinting through streaky glass.
Don’t let winter win!
The post Tech That Will Keep Your Fleet Safe in the Snow first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.
