Cloud based diagnostics

A new breed of diagnostic system is set to cause waves in the garage aftermarket sector when it is launched by Nebula Systems, a member of the RAC Group of Companies, on November 28, 2016.

MECH5.com provides flexible, cloud-based diagnostics and removes the need for costly hardware and software updates.

Nebula Systems was formed in 2014, combining the expertise of Maverick Technology and DEC Automotive of Argentina, to work on next-generation cloud-based diagnostics and data systems and was acquired by RAC in March 2016. RAC Telematics managing director Nick Walker anticipated this would “lead to the RAC moving from a reactive, to a proactive and ultimately predictive breakdown service”.

Customers now gain access to real-time information and automatic updates every time they login online. MECH5 comprises a small ‘MECH5 VCI’ – a Bluetooth OBD Vehicle Communications Interface – plus a flexible pay-as-you-go internet subscription.

Microsoft’s Azure cloud gives MECH5 flexibility that will embrace cloud connectivity to other platforms for technical data, technical support and eventually parts ordering. Coverage will initially closely follow the industry-leading DEC Superscan scan tool which is part of the Nebula Systems core tool-set.

Andrew Steer, CEO of Nebula Systems, said: “We’re enabling the democratisation of diagnostics, making this technology available to everybody from the small independent garage, up to nationwide dealerships. There’s no longer any big outlay required and technicians can also work from any device, even a smart phone if they really want to!”

Nick Walker, RAC Telematics MD, said: “This solution brings a revolutionary business model to an industry that has moved at a slow pace for years.

“MECH5 is the first of a range of services that RAC and Nebula Systems will bring to market based on Microsoft technologies.”

Garages can pre-order online today, or register for a free demo account, by visiting https://www.mech5.com