Rand McNally, a prominent name in commercial mapping and fleet technology for over 165 years, has announced a strategic partnership with Platform Science. This collaboration will introduce the next-generation Rand Navigation, powered by Rand Road IQ, to the Virtual Vehicle Marketplace and the Platform Science connected-fleet ecosystem. The launch is set to enhance navigation services for commercial fleets, allowing for direct in-cab deployment without the need for additional hardware or complex integrations.
The new solution is tailored for professional drivers and large fleets, combining decades of trusted mapping data with real-time intelligence. This integration aims to create a safer, more efficient routing experience for commercial transportation. “For generations, Rand McNally has guided drivers across America’s highways,” stated Doug Phillips, CEO of Rand McNally. “This partnership delivers that same reliability through today’s most advanced connected-vehicle platform, helping fleets navigate with greater safety, intelligence, and efficiency.”
Innovative Features of Rand Road IQ
The Rand Road IQ platform builds upon 80 years of meticulously curated road data, originally compiled for the Motor Carrier Road Atlas. Through continuous, field-verified updates, it incorporates approximately 33 percent more truck-specific attributes compared to standard maps. These features include details such as low-clearance bridges, weight restrictions, and routes limited by hazardous materials. The system leverages real-time traffic, weather, and operational data to dynamically refine routing, offering optimized travel times and safer guidance based on vehicle type and environmental conditions.
Phillips emphasized the platform’s adaptability, stating, “Rand Road IQ is designed to continuously learn. As we expand our data ecosystem, it will evolve from static attributes to more context-aware insights that help drivers and fleets make safer, smarter decisions in real time.”
Through Platform Science, fleets can activate Rand Navigation within their existing telematics environment almost instantaneously. The open, OEM-ready Virtual Vehicle platform facilitates the management and updating of applications directly through the Marketplace, eliminating the costs and complexities associated with custom integrations.
Strategic Advantages for Fleets
According to Joe Jumayao, VP of Business Development at Platform Science, this partnership adds a trusted navigation option to its expanding Marketplace. “Together, we are giving fleets more choice, flexibility, and data-driven insight than ever before,” he remarked. The Virtual Vehicle platform also supports OEM-native telematics activation and usage-based billing, ensuring fleets only pay for active trucks. This feature is particularly beneficial for large operations managing dynamic equipment rotations.
The collaboration signifies a pivotal moment in Rand McNally’s evolution into a connected-fleet technology innovator. Their range of solutions now includes truck-safe navigation, electronic logging devices (ELDs), fleet management tools, and video telematics, alongside an exclusive OEM-installed video and safety solution.
In summary, the partnership between Rand McNally and Platform Science not only reinforces Rand McNally’s legacy in mapping and navigation but also positions both companies at the forefront of modern transportation technology. As they continue to innovate, the emphasis remains on enhancing safety, efficiency, and reliability for fleets worldwide.