Automatrics has been relying on powerful quad-band 2G modems for over 15 years. The 2G (Second Generation Mobile) network continues to offer the most reliable data connectivity for fleet tracking in the UK. However, 2G networks are scheduled to be phased out in the UK by 31st December 2032, with many European countries switching off much sooner. Consequently, the GPS tracking industry will need to transition to 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks ahead of 2033.
As part of this transition, the communication modules in GPS tracker devices will need to be replaced in millions of UK vehicles, creating a significant challenge for both suppliers and customers. The sheer scale of this undertaking is already considerable, but maintaining the same level of communication performance without 2G will be complex. The 2G low-frequency bands (850-950 MHz) are particularly well-suited for vehicle tracking, optimising connectivity, especially in areas with poor mobile reception. 2G’s lower-band radio signals can travel longer distances and are more likely to penetrate buildings. Additionally, 2G supports the powerful SMS (Short Message Service), which can still deliver emergency messages when data connections are unavailable.
Users of telematics and fleet tracking systems who rely on emergency alerts must verify that their GPS vehicle tracking provider supports SMS. Most fleet tracking providers, by default, configure devices to communicate exclusively through data networks, meaning options for transmitting emergency messages via SMS are often either disabled or entirely unavailable. To ensure a successful migration to 4G technology, users should focus primarily on LTE CAT 1 or LTE CAT M1 mobile bands, both of which benefit from operating in the lower 800-950 MHz frequency range.
Any GPS vehicle tracker that cannot access the critical 800-900 MHz bands, including many 4G and 5G vehicle trackers, should be avoided. The Automatrics Fleet Tracker is engineered with performance as the top priority. It includes a hybrid modem capable of connecting to both 2G and 4G lower bands, and SMS is enabled to facilitate emergency alerts, thereby ensuring optimal tracking data connectivity.