[SatNews] Zatix and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq:IRDM) have announced that JBS Friboi, the world's largest animal product processing company, has equipped 1,500 long-haul trucks with VOLKSNET, an Iridium-based, Zatix-powered telematics solution.

The VOLKSNET on-board intelligence system works as the information source for the management of the long-haul fleet of vehicles, retrieving information from each vehicle's central electronic unit. Connected to the satellite network via Iridium short-burst data (SBD) based technology, and with the ability to switch to cellular carriers when in range of service, the system gathers data that can contribute towards driver performance analyses and accident prevention measures,potentially reducing maintenance, fuel costs, theft and accidents. The VOLKSNET system also permits interaction with the vehicle and the driver through a local terminal. It allows drivers to perform pre-programmed actions, independent of the central office, and automates common operations to cut back on man hours required to manage large fleets effectively.