DrivePlus Van app from Direct Line

There’s been a bit of talk lately about telematics, especially the new DrivePlus Van app from Direct Line insurance. It could potentially save van drivers up to 15% on the cost of insurance cover. But, this does mean being continually monitored or, as some see it, being spied on by a “black box” type of recording device. The app will log your van driving behaviour and once 300 miles are clocked up, marks your driving with a score of up to 100. If you manage a high enough score, you will get a promotional code, which can be redeemed for savings on Direct Line’s insurance costs.

This may be seen as a cost effective way for van driver’s and fleet owners to save money on insurance, and to better evaluate risk management, but will those driving the vans feel that this is the best way to promote responsible driving or just an intrusive “big brother” way to nit-pick.

The DrivePlus Van is free to download and available for the iPhone using iOS 6 or later software, and Androids with the 2.2 Froyo or later system. The app allows users to record journey times; distance travelled and of course monitors their driving score. It also indicates what events on the journey impacted the overall score.

Weigh in. Is this van app intrusive or an invaluable tool to help keep drivers safe and more productive?