Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming a mainstream choice for Australian business fleets. Lower running costs, government incentives, and sustainability goals are driving the shift. But when it comes to GPS tracking, EVs have some unique considerations that fleet managers need to understand.
Can You Use a Standard GPS Tracker on an EV?
Yes — but with some important caveats. Most GPS trackers work on EVs, but the installation method and power considerations differ from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Key Differences When Tracking EVs
1. No OBD-II Engine Data
While EVs do have an OBD-II port, the data available is different. Traditional engine metrics like RPM and fuel consumption don't apply. However, you can still access:
- State of charge (battery level) on compatible devices
- Odometer readings
- Fault codes and diagnostic data
- Location and trip data
2. Power Source Considerations
EVs don't have a traditional 12V alternator charging system in the same way ICE vehicles do. However, they do maintain a 12V auxiliary battery for accessories — this is what powers your GPS tracker. It's important to use a low-power tracker to avoid draining the auxiliary battery, especially during extended parking.
3. Regenerative Braking and Driving Behaviour
EVs use regenerative braking, which means harsh braking scores in traditional telematics may not accurately reflect driver behaviour. Look for a GPS platform that accounts for EV-specific driving patterns.
4. Charging Location Monitoring
For EV fleets, knowing where and when vehicles are charging is valuable operational data. Some advanced GPS platforms can integrate with charging networks to provide this visibility.
What to Look for in an EV-Compatible GPS Tracker
- Low power consumption to protect the auxiliary battery
- OBD-II compatibility with EV-specific data support
- Real-time tracking on Australian 4G LTE networks
- Geofencing and alerts for charging location monitoring
- Long-term reliability — EVs are a long-term investment, your tracker should be too
The EV Fleet Opportunity
Australian businesses transitioning to EV fleets are in a strong position to build smarter, more data-driven operations from the ground up. GPS tracking is a foundational tool in that stack — giving you visibility, control, and the data to optimise your fleet as it grows.
Track Your EV Fleet with Techtonika Autolink
Our GPS trackers are compatible with electric vehicles and designed for Australian conditions. Whether you're running one EV or transitioning your entire fleet, we have a solution that fits.
Explore EV-compatible GPS trackers today.