A new automotive repair platform debuted at the New York International Auto Show this week that will remotely diagnose automotive vehicle problems and deliver consumers competitive repair quotes from local mechanics.
The platform, OpenbayConnect from Openbay, is a “first-of-its-kind platform that leverages connected-car technology,” according to the company.
“We live in an on-demand society, and today’s connected consumers expect immediate responses to their needs,” Rob Infantino, founder and CEO of Openbay, said. “Fewer people are raising a hand to hail a cab or calling a restaurant to book a reservation, and now, we’re eliminating the need to head to a mechanic to diagnose a check-engine light.”
When a vehicle experiences a problem, OpenbayConnect wirelessly gathers and analyzes vehicle diagnostic data. The data is then analyzed, translated from trouble codes into plain language, and, if the issue warrants an immediate service, the information is delivered to local auto repair shops all via the Openbay platform – all without human intervention. Those shops assess the data and may respond with an offer to complete the service, along with a binding price.
“OpenbayConnect will remotely determine cause, cost and availability to perform the repair by local mechanics, answering virtually every driver’s need for efficient, affordable auto repair service,” Infantino said.
Choosing a shop – based on location, ratings and reviews, and price – and securing an appointment via Openbay may be completed in as few as three taps. Openbay processes payment via credit card or Apple Pay, only after the agreed-upon repair or maintenance is performed. OpenbayConnect’s service is completely free to vehicle owners.
OpenbayConnect wirelessly gathers vehicle data via a connection established in one of two ways: an consumer-installable wireless communication device that plugs into a vehicle’s OBD II port and built-in vehicle telematics.
According to Openbay, approximately 81% of vehicles on U.S. roads today are ready for OpenbayConnect.
OpenbayConnect will be made available, beginning this spring, to a select user base.
