Readers of Fleet News have voted Quartix top telematics provider for the fourth year running.

"This is a huge vote of confidence in Quartix, its products and services," said Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director.  "It is also testimony to the dedication, commitment and hard work of our entire team who, year after year, keep Quartix at the forefront of telematics development, provision and service."

Last year, despite weak economic conditions, the company achieved outstanding results, increasing turnover by 46% to just under £7 million and the installation of new vehicle tracking systems by 125%. This was achieved through transparent pricing, a comprehensive range of rental and outright purchase options, and the introduction of innovative, cost-saving services – including driver behaviour monitoring.

This service, which is capable of saving fleet operators as much as £20,000 a year on a fleet of 20 vehicles, detects speeds, harsh braking and acceleration.  "Twelve months ago driver behaviour monitoring was relatively new, but now most fleet operators request it. The price of fuel is one of the main reasons," said Mr Kirk.

Last year also saw Quartix make significant investment in research, design and development, with a new version of its renowned tracking system – including additional 'black box' technology for accident investigations – launched in January.

Andy Kirk explained: "Unlike most of our competitors, who buy in their black boxes, we design and develop all our own technology – so we are not beholden to outside suppliers. In fact, we design and develop all aspects of our system, which means we are always in a position to maintain our leading edge position."

No less than 50% of all Quartix fleet orders are the result of customer referrals or repeat business. In 2011, the company supplied just under 20,000 vehicle tracking systems and now takes on around 100 new customers a month.

"Our customers appreciate we strive hard to achieve the highest possible standards and they are aware Quartix is a name synonymous with the highest levels of quality and service," added Mr Kirk.

Recently, thieves’ violent attempt to hijack a security equipment company’s van was foiled by Quartix vehicle tracking.  Driver Roger Hirsch, of Delta Security, was in slow-moving traffic in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, when he felt a sudden bump from behind. Leaping from his cab, he was shoved roughly to the ground by one thief while a second slipped behind the wheel and sped off.

Shocked but otherwise unhurt, Hirsch quickly called his boss and urged him to check the company's vehicle tracking system.  Dave Mundy, the London firm's Operations Manager, said: "I ran to my laptop, logged on to our Quartix vehicle tracking system and entered the registration number of Roger's van. A few seconds later I could see a map with the van clearly marked and showing it was travelling along the North Circular from Walthamstow towards Edmonton.  I dialled 999 on the landline and asked for the police."

Mr Mundy explained the situation to them and said he was tracking the Ford Transit online and could explain exactly where the vehicle was.  He was able to tell them when the van left the North Circular and entered High Road, Tottenham and the precise time it turned into a yard.  "The Quartix tracking system showed the van to be stationery with the ignition off. The time was 9.59pm. At 10.01 the first police car arrived on the scene with a second car arriving a minute later," he said.

Above: The Delta Security van - recovered thanks to Quartix vehicle tracking; Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director, Quartix.