When a 500-horsepower giant circles a test track in central Switzerland, it’s not just about speed or performance — it’s about data. Every drive is an experiment, every kilometer a step toward the future.

For the past two years, Brabender has been using its own test truck to explore the full potential of modern telematics — not in theory, but in real-world conditions.

Data Instead of Diesel: A Rolling Laboratory

The vehicle itself is a true heavyweight: a fully equipped Mercedes-Benz Actros with dual fuel tanks, power take-off, body interface, and every technical extra a driver could dream of. But the real power lies beneath the surface: a complete telematics system that records every movement, every second, and every piece of relevant data.

Driving times, driver behavior, fuel consumption, trailer identification — all of it is captured in real time. These insights form the foundation for continuously refining Brabender’s own telematics system.

Real-World Testing Over Lab Simulations

“We don’t want theoretical data — we want reality," says Thomas Brabender.

And that’s exactly what happens: communication between truck and TMS is pushed to its limits on the road. Test engineers analyze the data, fine-tune the software and ensure dispatchers get precisely the information they need — when they need it.

The result: a telematics system that doesn’t just work, but thrives in everyday operations.

When Data Tells a Story

One particularly exciting element is driver performance analysis. The system was deliberately tested under radically different driving conditions — from fuel-efficient “eco mode” to full-throttle, material-intensive runs.

“We pushed the system to the extreme, and that’s where we gained the most valuable insights,” says Thomas Brabender. “Only by testing in real-life scenarios can you create solutions that actually work in practice.”

Turning Tests Into Innovation

With every kilometer driven, the system becomes smarter, more robust and more practical. The mission: to provide transport and logistics companies not just with data, but with the right data, exactly where and when they need it.