A new epyx product launching later this quarter will provide a strong basis for future fleet connected car developments in service, maintenance and repair (SMR).

Epyx says the future possibilities for its connected car SMR solution are considerable

While the Driver Booking Module will initially enable company car and van drivers to book SMR directly with garages online using mobile or desktop devices, it’s actually scoring more interest for what it will be able to do in the future.

Debbie Fox, commercial director at epyx, said: “There is a product pathway being developed that could include enhancements over time such as safety recalls, ADAS integration, automatic odometer readings and real-time diary integration, all made possible wholly or in part by connected technology.

“We see this very much as the next chapter in the development of 1link Service Network as technology opens a new range of possibilities surrounding SMR for our users. We are very excited about what the future could be and how epyx could be at the forefront of these advances.”

Fox added that while connected car technology has been growing in prevalence for a little while, there is a sense that the fleet industry is now starting to focus on how to make best use of its possibilities as part of enhancing their digital offering.

The initial iteration of the Driver Booking Module has been designed to provide a fast, efficient and simple way of digitalising and streamlining the SMR booking process through 1link Service Network for company vehicle drivers, leasing companies and mobility providers; it’s aimed at the fleets totalling four million company vehicles that use the platform.

Drivers will be able to nominate up to three potential booking dates from within a defined network, which will then be confirmed by the garage. Importantly, all communication between driver and garage – including initial bookings, amendments, cancellations and other queries – occurs directly through the platform without the need for any fleet intervention. All of this takes place within a rule engine configured by the leasing company within 1link Service Network, leaving them in complete control of key cost and safety parameters, ranging from supplier choice to automatic job authorisation spending limits.

And to support speedy adoption, epyx can offer either a branded version of the newly designed interface, or an API that means it can be integrated into existing web sites or apps.

“We’ve already shown the product to a number of fleets who are pursuing digitalisation strategies. Its benefits are clear and the future possibilities are considerable,” Fox added.

1link Driver Booking Module is expected to launch towards the end of Q1 2021.