BYD Auto NZ, in a landmark strategic partnership with global vehicle data aggregator Compass IoT, today announces the commencement of Connected Car Data trials with several large fleet operators. This initiative, supported by NZTA, positions BYD at the forefront of a revolution in EV ownership, fleet management and national road infrastructure.
The partnership uniquely connects BYD’s advanced in-vehicle telematics with Compass IoT’s sophisticated road intelligence platform. This integration is set to deliver significant safety and efficiency benefits while directly supporting New Zealand’s transition to a future-proof digital Road User Charging (RUC) system, scheduled to come into effect in 2027.
Trials Underway with Leading Fleets
The platform is already live, with trials successfully commenced. Notably, Carbn NZ, with a fleet of 337 BYD vehicles, now has data actively flowing through the system, demonstrating the solution's scalability and immediate value for large-scale operators.
“As one of New Zealand’s largest EV fleet operators, Carbn is focused on removing friction from fleet compliance while unlocking smarter, data-driven mobility.” Says Shaun Drylie, Chief Executive of Carbn. “These trials demonstrate that native vehicle data can materially simplify Road User Charging, improve fleet visibility, activate sharing opportunities, and reduce operational cost and complexity for operators at scale. This is a practical example of how connected vehicles can deliver immediate value to fleets today, while also helping New Zealand transition to a more modern, digital and transport system.”
Seamless Compliance, No Hardware Required
A key advantage for BYD owners and fleets is seamless compliance without complexity. Using the integrated Compass Native Connect platform, eligible BYD vehicles automatically provide precise, secure odometer readings required for RUC calculation—eliminating the need for any aftermarket hardware installation.
"BYD vehicles are engineered with the future in mind. This partnership allows us to leverage our native technology to simplify compliance for our customers today, while actively shaping a smarter, safer, and more efficient road infrastructure for tomorrow," said Warren Willmot. General Manager for BYD Auto New Zealand. "We are paving the way for digital RUC in NZ."
Transformative Fleet Management on a Single Platform
For fleet operators, the collaboration unlocks unprecedented visibility and control. The integrated platform provides a comprehensive, real-time dashboard for managing an entire BYD fleet, delivering actionable insights that drive safety, productivity, and cost savings.
Key fleet benefits include:
• Real-Time Vehicle Location: Track fleet assets instantly on a unified map.
• Proactive Alerts & Monitoring: Receive immediate notifications for geofencing, maintenance, and vehicle status.
• Enhanced Safety & Driver Coaching: Detect and address abnormal driving behaviour to
promote safer roads.
• Asset Health & Degradation Tracking: Monitor battery performance, charging data, and overall vehicle health to optimise lifecycle management.
A Global Partnership for Local Innovation
Compass IoT, the world’s only global vehicle data aggregator operating across Australasia, the UK, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, brings unparalleled expertise in transforming connected vehicle data into road intelligence. This partnership with BYD marks a significant step in applying global innovation to New Zealand’s specific transport challenges and opportunities.
“Our mission is to build the intelligence layer for the world's roads. Partnering with a visionary EV leader like BYD allows us to directly contribute to safer roads and a more equitable charging system in New Zealand from day one,” said Angus McDonald, Compass IoT Managing Director. “Seeing data flow from hundreds of vehicles in the Carbn NZ fleet validates the power and readiness of this solution.”
Trial Information
The Connected Car Data platform is now in active trial phase with selected fleet operators. BYD New Zealand and Compass IoT are inviting other interested fleet managers to register their interest in participating in future trial phases.
