ECG published a document in July 2020 proposing a standard for connectivity audits on vehicle logistics sites. This proposed standard is the result of a collaboration between Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, Groupe PSA and Nantes-Saint-Nazaire Port. It is a new initiative which anticipates the future connectivity needs of compounds. Currently no other recommendation for such a standard exists and as such this is a unique opportunity to ensure standardisation and avoid the proliferation of diverging practices.
Ensuring an excellent level of connectivity within their compounds is increasingly essential for Logistics Service Providers (LSPs). A sufficient level of connectivity within the perimeter of compound operations ensures that no vehicle data upload or information exchange via portable device by LSP field staff is lost.
Compound audits with specialized companies can be requested to ensure that premises meet the necessary connectivity requirements in terms of 2G/3G/4G coverage. The audit specifications and requirements are detailed in the recommendation. The proposed standard was trialled and tested in Nantes-Saint-Nazaire Port by Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi and Groupe PSA. The three companies then shared the specifications and
audit results with the Digitalisation Working Group which has led to the publication of the ECG Connectivity measurement protocol on vehicle logistics sites.
A common audit standard offers the benefit of avoiding duplication of time-consuming audits and can offer real cost savings for all parties. The proposed standard is freely available for all to use and feedback is welcomed from interested parties.