Autoglass has unveiled a series of new technologies designed to support technicians and further improve its vehicle glass repair and replacement service for fleets, drivers and insurers. 

The new tools were on show at its conference in Milton Keynes this month and include advanced repair technology (ART), a recently launched vehicle handover video appraisal service, and a new Facebook chatbot for people who prefer to use social media to engage with customer service.

ART is designed to assist technicians in making the process of repairing a windscreen more efficient.

Once the technician has cleaned and prepared the area around a chip, the system is placed over the top to create a vacuum into which a repair resin capsule is inserted.

The tool then runs independently, allowing more time for the technician to engage with the customer. Once the tool has completed its task, the technician then finishes by curing the repair with a UV lamp.

The vehicle handover video appraisal service uses Vehicle Vision technology to conduct a pre- and post-inspection of the vehicle.

Autoglass is currently piloting the technology, which takes a three-minute 360-degree video of both the interior and exterior of the customer’s vehicle before the job is completed using a bespoke device on the technicians’ handsets.

It provides a visually accurate and time-stamped record of the vehicle’s condition so the customer can be confident in the quality of workmanship.

Autoglass is also launching a range of new features to support customers, including a new Facebook chatbot designed to respond to frequently asked questions.

Recent research commissioned by Autoglass found that young drivers are more likely to want to speak to someone via social media when it comes to choosing a product or service relating to their car than older drivers. 18-24 year olds are four times as likely to turn to social media as the over-55s.

In response to growing demand for digital services, Autoglass has also launched a new ‘On My Way’ real time tracking tool which texts customers on the day of their appointment with a link that allows them to see the location of their technician.

Taxiarchis Konstantopoulos, managing director, at Autoglass, said: “Autoglass has a long heritage as a trail-blazer and these developments are testament to that position."

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