The Ford Smart Service Kiosk Automates Trips to the Mechanic
Michael Hines — March 15, 2017 — Autos
References: media.ford & motortrend
Getting your car serviced at a dealership could be a much different experience sooner rather than later depending on how the trial of the Ford Smart Service Kiosk goes. The American automaker teamed up with Panasonic to create a 24/7 kiosk that allows drivers to drop off their cars for service, pay for said service and retrieve keys for loaner cars without having to step foot inside a dealership's service department. The Ford Smart Service Kiosk is currently undergoing a 90-day trial run at LaFontaine Ford in Birch Run, Michigan.
With a service like this, security is bound to be a concern. To that end Ford and Panasonic require a special QR code (emailed when the car is first dropped off) and PIN (created by the consumer) for key retrieval. The Ford Smart Service Kiosk allows drivers to put in service orders for their car ranging from air conditioning system recharging to transmission and brake servicing. Completed work can be paid for at the kiosk, with users able to set a price limit for service beforehand. The Ford Smart Service Kiosk may see a wider roll out if the 90-day trial is deemed a success.
With a service like this, security is bound to be a concern. To that end Ford and Panasonic require a special QR code (emailed when the car is first dropped off) and PIN (created by the consumer) for key retrieval. The Ford Smart Service Kiosk allows drivers to put in service orders for their car ranging from air conditioning system recharging to transmission and brake servicing. Completed work can be paid for at the kiosk, with users able to set a price limit for service beforehand. The Ford Smart Service Kiosk may see a wider roll out if the 90-day trial is deemed a success.
Trend Themes
1. Self-service Car Repair - Opportunity for self-service car repair stations that automate the process of dropping off, paying for, and retrieving serviced vehicles without stepping foot inside a dealership.
2. 24/7 Service Kiosks - Potential for 24/7 service kiosks that provide convenient access to car maintenance and repairs outside of regular business hours.
3. QR Code and PIN Security - Demand for innovative security systems using QR codes and PINs to protect keys and ensure secure key retrieval in self-service car repair stands.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Disruptive innovation opportunity for the automotive industry to automate car servicing and enhance customer convenience through self-service car repair stands.
2. Technology - Opportunity for technology companies to develop advanced kiosk systems for self-service car repair and provide secure QR code and PIN-based key retrieval solutions.
3. Retail - Potential for retail businesses to venture into the self-service car repair industry by offering 24/7 service kiosks as an additional revenue stream.
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