KT has launched a new information and technology service targeting the industrial automotive industry.

Korea’s second-largest mobile carrier said the new service, named “Smart Eco Drive,” is integrated with vehicle telematics applications and offers drivers real-time monitoring and analysis on the condition of their automobiles. Telematics is the combining of telecommunications and information technology, but commonly refers to automation in vehicles.

Data including speed, driving time and location will be stored on digital tachographs, which resemble transportation or credit cards installed inside the cars.

Given that tachographs will be linked with KT’s cloud-computing platform or software, vehicle operators or drivers do not need to worry about expanding data capacity. Previously, transport operators equipped with traditional tachographs had to boost their server systems after they increased the number of vehicles or driving hours, KT noted.

KT’s service will provide analytical solutions based on data stored on its cloud platform via the Internet where users can access information about their automobiles such as gas and battery levels, brake pressure system status and coolant temperature.

Operators and drivers will be able to receive such service every day or month, which KT hopes will contribute to promoting a safe, eco-friendly driving culture in the country.

All new automobiles for industrial use registered after January 1, 2011 will need to install digital tachographs in line with Korea’s transportation policy.

A KT executive said that the company will further expand its cloud-based Eco Drive service by adapting it to automotive black boxes, navigation systems and smartphones.

By Park Hyong-ki (hkp@heraldcorp.com)