IoT and Telematics in Car Rental at Sixt

Process Requirements

The aim of technological solution integration is to optimize customer service and minimize waiting times during vehicle rental. The rental of vehicles should thus be possible outside business hours. At the same time, vehicle error messages are to be automatically recorded and transmitted in order to digitally map vehicle maintenance processes and intervals, and to trigger immediate corrections.

Objectives

• Automated vehicle rental without waiting times
• Customer communication in real time
• Integration of a predictive maintenance solution

Solution

A telematics box installed in the vehicle interior is connected to the vehicle's on-board computer for external communication. The solution operates via mobile network combined with M2M technologies. A GPS and a GSM module as well as gyro sensors are integrated in the box. The box is used for data retrieval and communication, virtual handling of customer interaction, vehicle condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance applications.

The IoT-enabled box queries vehicle data – from fuel level to mileage – for condition and damage assessment for the digital rental contract and transparent billing. The box is used to control the unlocking and locking of the vehicle when the vehicle is handed over or returned.

Customers can use a smartphone app to access functions and vehicle data after a Fastlane registration. Available vehicles can be selected digitally by touch, rented and unlocked using a virtual key.

The telematics box records and monitors safety-relevant data for predictive maintenance, for example the current tire pressure of the vehicle in real time. If the measured values show significant deviations from the target value when the vehicle is returned, the Telematics box sends an error message to the overarching system. A gyro sensor integrated in the box measures and analyses acceleration and shock data, thus detecting an emergency or car accident and can send an emergency signal.

Advantages

• Real-time monitoring of safety-relevant data possible
• Automated vehicle rental realized
• The visit of a rental station is not necessary
• Digital rental contract and transparent billing
• Automated vehicle unlocking and locking
• Condition monitoring for predictive maintenance implemented

Outlook

• Integrating telematics box functions such as data retrieval or vehicle locking and unlocking in the entire rental car fleet
• In the future, it should be possible to pick up and drop off rental cars at any location

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