Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing automatic status information pertaining to the location and state of a plurality of vehicles incorporates the use of an intelligent controller onboard the vehicle The onboard intelligent controller utilizes data received from a GPS receiver and a vehicle condition sensor to generate automatic status information that is transmitted by a wireless communication system to a state database. The state database is accessed by a central dispatch center, and the data records contained therein are utilized to provide visual indicators to a dispatcher regarding the identity, location and state of each vehicle within a fleet of vehicles. The system employs knowledge of allowable states and state transitions to effect appropriate status reporting.