How Onboard Data Can Help Your Business The Automatic system makes managing vehicles a snap.

Fleet management

Whether you run your own business or commute to someone else's, you are highly dependent on your vehicle. Automatic, a free app combined with a $100 wireless adapter, can help optimize this costly and essential part of your operation.

The Automatic adapter plugs into a vehicle's onboard computer via its ODB-II diagnostics port and connects to an iOS or Android smartphone via Bluetooth. With built-in GPS, the device keeps track of where your vehicle goes or -- perhaps even more useful -- where it's parked. An accelerometer detects impacts, helping Automatic monitor for accidents and alerting the company to call for help on your behalf.