AUTOGLASS is trialling a new internet-based booking system for glass replacement in the first of a series of new hi-tech services to be offered to customers. Fleet drivers and managers will be able to book their cars in for glass replacement or repair over the internet via the Autoglass website.

Fleets can already book appointments through the internet site via e-mail, but the new service will totally automate the process, sending the request direct to the nearest service centre or to the driver of a mobile unit. The system will include an 'intelligent' programme that can determine the correct type of glass needed according to the car's details or registration number. If there is no definite answer, the system will predict the most likely glass.

The system is being trialled with an as-yet unnamed 3,500-vehicle fleet and several more are said to be interested in signing up to the 'members-only' site. Pre-booked requests will also be pre-authorised, removing the need for drivers to wait for their fleet to give the go-ahead for work to be carried out.

Ian Reid, corporate marketing manager, said: 'We have already received hundreds of jobs through the e-mail booking service, but this streamlines the whole operation and will be offered to customers soon.'