A new self-inspection solution that can help fleets expedite vehicle disposals and minimise damage costs is now available direct in the UK.

Drivers can undertake a self-assessment in their driveway in as little as three minutes

Developed in Canada, Pave is an open API self-inspection solution that enables drivers to undertake a self-assessment in their driveway in as little as three minutes.

The new tool could open the door to streamlined vehicle disposals for both leased and purchased fleets.

Pre-defleet inspections have long been regarded as essential best practice for disposals, helping fleet managers plan repairs to vehicle defects and damages as well as avoid unexpected costs. A proactive approach to vehicle maintenance will identify damage earlier, which can then be rectified in a timely manner, and minimise days-to-sale.

The new app streamlines this by offering customer-guided professional inspections via a smartphone.

Phil Deegan, head of business development at Pave UK, said: “Knowledge is power. At a time of managing rising business costs, having the right information at hand promptly can help fleet managers make informed decisions about how best to remarket vehicles.

“And the app fully integrates with most fleet management systems, making it easy to access in-depth analysis and speed up the process of undertaking any repair work needed so minimising days to sale. Fleets can fully cost work using Pave, using their matrix of repair methods and cost price. AI opens the door to help fleet managers function much more efficiently.

“Additionally, we have a duty of care and a responsibility to be transparent with consumers, and Pave supports these.”

Currently, fleet managers have to arrange for vehicle inspections at assessment centres by specialists, so taking vehicles off the road. But using the inspection app on the driver’s phone, Pave can efficiently assess vehicle condition, damages and remedial costs, generating a report in minutes. This should ideally be done at least a month before end of the contract, giving fleets time to sort any issues before the vehicle is remarketed or returned to the lessor.

“Pre-return vehicle inspections offer a best practice that gives total transparency to the condition of vehicles so fleet managers can make better-informed decisions, without encountering unexpected business costs,” added Deegan.