On-board unit

Definition:

One On-board unit (OBU) is an electronic device installed in a vehicle, usually in trucks, for the automatic recording, transmission and billing of road usage charges (tolls).
The OBU uses satellite-based positioning systems (GNSS) and mobile radio technologies to determine the vehicle position on toll routes and to transmit the data to the responsible billing office.

Modern OBUs are often integrated into telematics systems and are also used for vehicle tracking, fleet control, communication and security — e.g. through real-time data transmission and emergency call functions.

Typical functions of an OBU:

• ‍Toll processing via GNSS/GSM‍
• Real time vehicle tracking (GPS/GNSS tracking)‍
• Telematics data (e.g. consumption, engine status, maintenance requirements)‍
• Communication with transportation systems (traffic info, blockages, rerouting)‍
• Emergency and safety features (eCall function depending on the system)

Examples of OBU systems:
Toll Collect (DE), AsfinAG (AT), Satellic (BE), UTA One®, DKV Box Europe

Technology context
The OBU is part of the electronic toll system (ETC) and uses technologies such as DSRC, GNSS, GSM/LTE, partly supplemented by RFID and on-board sensors.

Reference to EU interoperability
Through the European Electronic Toll Service (EETS) OBUs are increasingly being used across borders.

_{Sources/further links:
Toll Collect — OBU function: How to use OBU in a nutshell}

_{EU Commission — EETS Technical Specification: European electronic toll service - Mobility and Transport}

_{ASFINAG Telematics & GO-Box info: https://www.asfinag.at}

Challenges with on-board units:

Different national toll systems & devices
Despite EETS harmonization, there are different systems, technical standards and registration requirements. Incorrect configuration or lack of registration results in fines or additional demands.
_{Sources/further links:
EU — EETS interoperability challenges: European electronic toll service - Mobility and Transport}

Technical errors & poor signal coverage
GNSS failures, radio faults, defective OBUs or incorrect vehicle parameters can lead to billing problems and delays in the transport process.
_{Sources/further links:
Toll Collect — fault information: https://www.toll-collect.de}

Loady's solution:

Clear location and vehicle requirements in advance
Loady digitally provides whether there are special equipment requirements for factory trips (e.g. registered vehicles, access verification, digital check-in processes).

Transparent driver and vehicle requirements
Drivers can see in advance which documents, registrations or telematics systems may be required, e.g. for automated gate systems or access controls.