Virtual Technician, the diagnostics system from Daimler-Chrysler Trucks North America (DTNA), will be included as standard equipment on all Detroit Diesel-equipped 2012 Freightliners. Now fleet and truck owners can get engine maintenance and repair advice on the go.
Developed by Zonar Systems, Virtual Technician provides truck fleets with a program that can gather and report engine performance data in real-time to Detroit Diesel’s Customer Support Center. There, the data is analyzed to determine the proper course of action and relays it to the owner.
Zonar VP of Sales and Marketing, Chris Oliver states, “As a leading provider of vehicle inspection, tracking and fleet telematics systems, Zonar is uniquely positioned to help fleets and operators improve transportation efficiency and reduce downtime. By leveraging Zonar’s technology with the Virtual Technician system, DTNA can provide immediate and proactive diagnostic service to their customers.”
According to DTNA General Manager of Marketing & Strategy, Dave Hames, Virtual Technician has determined that 93% of those issues identified by indicator lights do not require immediate action. Additionally, since, Virtual Technician determines not only whether immediate service is required or can be scheduled at a later date, but also availability of needed parts, downtime is reduced. Owners can decide when and where to schedule the necessary maintenance or repairs, as the service also offers a choice of nearby service facilities.