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The RAC plan to completely change the breakdown industry and turn it on it's head with a launch of a remote vehicle fault finder system. The RAC advance system will be able to diagnose a problem with a vehicle, before it ends in a breakdown, the organisation claims. The "magic box" is already being used by around 50,000 fleet companies, though it is now being produced to be made available to private motorists. Of course, membership to the RAC is essential to be able to use the system.
The technology is in fact nothing new, there are similar on board diagnostic systems available through the internet for a fee, though this is the first time that such a system as been used by a breakdown organisation. The device is said to be around the same size as a matchbox and only takes a few minutes to be able to be installed into a vehicle. If a problem is to occur, the motorist would receive an automated email, text or call informing them about the fault with their vehicle. The motorist can then look to fix the fault before it results in the breakdown of their vehicle.
The device has also been said to be able to assits in the event of an accident by automatically alerting the breakdown and recording the accident. Some of course believe that a device such as this one, although helpful, is just an easy way for authorities to be able to keep tabs on everybody's moves behind the wheel. Similar boxes are currently being used by insurance companies so that they can monitor the behaviour of drivers. Some people find it unnerving and ask how long will it be until everybody's car is tracked and monitored?
The RAC however have gone on to argue the benefits and additional functions of this system, like an efficiency monitor which actively encourages greeners driving. The technical director of the RAC David Bizley explained that motorists could actually find they could save over £300, based on annual fuel bills. There is also potential to save further amounts up to £300 by drivers sharing their responsible behaviour via RAC advance on their car insurance. Of course this saving would only apply to drivers who used RAC's insurance.
It is highly likely that most motorists would welcome a system that could give you early warnings of a breakdown, nobody wants to be in the unfortunate position of being stranded at the side of the road. Though sadly, the magix box of course cannot help in the event of lost keys or running out of petrol, which the AA have reported are the most common causes of breakdown in the United Kingdom.