Stockport: Transforming modern vehicle maintenance
Automotive repair workshops have changed beyond recognition. As technology advances, it becomes increasingly likely that Service technicians will be equipped with iPads and augmented reality headsets rather than spanners and wrenches.
This transformation has not gone unnoticed by David Butterworth, Managing Director of Bosch Automotive Service Solutions in the UK. He sees it as a logical response to the development of technology in the modern motorcar, resulting in new and innovative ways of working.
“The automotive sector is changing at a tremendous pace,” says David. “Twenty years ago, the average car contained five electronic modules, such as ABS, but digital complexity has recently gone through the roof. These days, vehicles can have as many as 130 electronic control units. As a result, service technicians need new software and hardware to help them diagnose faults.” This is where Bosch Automotive Service Solutions comes in.
Headquartered in Stockport, the company is a global leader in state-of-the-art testing and repair equipment, diagnostic solutions, training programs and technical after-sales services. They also have locations in the US, Europe and Asia Pacific.
The technology developed in Stockport helps OEM dealer networks to address the service needs of modern, electronically-controlled vehicles.
“The key to the success of Bosch Automotive Service Solutions is partnership”, says David. “It’s a very customer-centric business. Our success comes down to the strong relationships we have formed with the leading car manufacturers, ever since Jaguar became our first customer in 1981. Now, we work with around 100 automotive companies across the world.”
Navigating the pace of technological change is an exciting aspect of working at Bosch Automotive Service Solutions. The transformation of workshop environments is a prime example of these changes.
“The IoT is really important when it comes to enabling technology”, says David. “For instance, it underpins augmented reality.”
“Augmented reality headsets provide the chance to overlay all sorts technical data on top of car systems and components, with the information presented in imaginative ways such as through exploded illustrations.” Explained David.
Looking to the future, David expects to keep embracing new technology as he helps drive the business forward. An engineer by training, he says he thoroughly enjoys working for an organisation that encourages its associates to learn new skills.
“Since joining Bosch in 2012, I’ve had technical, account management and project management roles. I’ve had a new assignment every two years, which not only helps with my own development but gives me tremendous opportunities to progress. I believe people can do new things if they are given the chance,” he says.
