Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) | Fleet Management

A system that uses GPS tracking, telecommunications technology, and software to track vehicles and other assets. It provides real-time tracking and the ability to monitor driver behavior. Unlike GPS, AVL was specifically designed for fleet management. It’s now more prominently used in government fleets, such as law enforcement, ambulances, and other emergency response.

Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) is a fleet-focused system that uses GPS, telecommunications technology, and software to automatically and continuously track the real-time location of vehicles and mobile assets. Designed specifically for fleet operations, AVL enables centralized oversight and streamlines decision-making by providing precise location data to dispatchers, fleet managers, and operational teams.

Beyond location tracking, AVL systems monitor driver behavior—such as speed, idling, and route adherence—and can integrate with onboard sensors to collect additional operational data like fuel usage, engine diagnostics, and cargo conditions. This level of insight helps organizations improve safety, reduce fuel costs, enforce compliance, and increase overall efficiency.

Unlike general-purpose GPS, AVL is purpose-built for managing distributed fleets and is widely adopted across government and emergency services, including law enforcement, ambulances, and public transit. Its ability to enhance situational awareness and support rapid response makes it a critical tool for both public and private sector fleet management.