Citroën Australia has introduced a new Internet-based TeleAssist system that allows technicians at its Sydney headquarters to “talk” to Citroën cars anywhere in Australia.
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Models with multiplex electronics – the Berlingo, Xsara and C5 – can be connected to the Internet for an electronic systems check by Citroën’s Sydney headquarters.
Technicians can remotely operate electronically controlled systems such as windows and central locking and correct programming or operational faults. In turn Citroën Australia technicians can also use the system to summon further help from their counterparts in France.
“We can ‘examine’ a car, even when we are thousands of kilometres away from it,” said Citroen Australia service manager Joe Patane.
“We are not reliant on someone describing the problem over the phone; we can personally examine the car in real time regardless of where it is. We can then either fix the problem remotely or guide the local technician for work that cannot be done remotely. This speeds up servicing and maintenance and reduces costs for owners.”
Citroën Australia has installed a dedicated computer server in Sydney to run the TeleAssist system. Dealers are required to purchase suitable computers, install dedicated phone lines and train staff.
The service will eventually be available at the roadside, using notebook computers linked to GRPS mobile phones.
