As the transportation industry shifts towards sustainable operations, a strong, reliable and extensive service network is essential for keeping vehicles on the road and fleets operating at peak performance. Service networks help fleets stay on the road faster and increase uptime (amount of time that a vehicle is available and operational for use) while also integrating advanced telematics and predictive maintenance to service fleets. It is also important to appreciate the economic and environmental advantages of adopting a digital-first service approach that aligns with stricter emission regulations.

This article addresses the role of data and software in vehicle servicing while also highlighting trends in solutions and the impact of regulations on the service network.

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The role of data, electronics and software in the service network

In the rapidly evolving landscape of commercial transportation, the role of data, electronics and software cannot be overstated, especially in the context of the energy transition. Data plays a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency, reliability and performance of vehicle engines and parts. Through sensors embedded across various systems, data like temperature, pressure and speed are continuously monitored to improve vehicle performance.

This data is not merely informative but predictive, enabling preventative maintenance, prognostics and optimized diagnostics to avoid potential failures, thereby reducing downtime and repair costs. Additionally, innovation is driving advancements in components such as vehicle software and power electronics, resulting in capabilities like over-the-air (OTA) updates and advanced telematics. These technologies not only allow for continuous improvements and fixes to be applied remotely but also enable a deeper integration of vehicle systems, leading to enhanced vehicle performance.

Emerging trends in digital service solutions

The automotive industry is rapidly embracing digital solutions, particularly through telematics, which now connects over one million on-highway trucks to a sophisticated service network. This system significantly streamlines the management of complex fleet operations by continuously monitoring vehicle health using data from multiple sensors integrated into a single engine dashboard.

Telematics not only identifies issues like high fuel consumption early but also guides maintenance through predictive analytics. This increases the efficiency and accuracy of services, leading to fewer misdiagnosed issues and unnecessary part replacements, which cuts down on unnecessary visits to the repair shop and reduces costs.

Furthermore, since 2019, the adoption of telematics has allowed dealers to effectively connect with fleet owners and ensure essential parts are readily available, speeding up service times. Cummins has optimized this asset-based technology by reducing previously complex troubleshooting to just a few steps, revolutionizing service efficiency. This digital integration is setting new standards in vehicle service, transforming fleet management, and improving reliability across the industry, especially in growth markets like India and China.

China's rapid digitalization in the automotive service sector illustrates the transformation potential of integrating digital services. With the stringent China VI Emissions Standard and the adoption of sophisticated telematics capabilities, over one million on-highway trucks in China are now connected through a robust service network. This connectivity facilitates preemptive maintenance and streamlines service interventions, leveraging data to predict and address vehicle issues before they escalate.

How do we service different fuel and powertrain technologies?

As the automotive industry shifts from internal combustion engines (ICE) to alternatives like fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) and battery electric vehicles (BEV), the service infrastructure must adapt to meet these new challenges. This evolution involves integrating advanced diagnostics and data analytics tools essential for servicing these diverse powertrains.

Understanding the unique needs of each type of powertrain is crucial. For instance, while certain components such as turbos may be consistent across different engine types, the specific data required can vary significantly, from diesel ICE to hydrogen ICE engines. New technologies introduce more sensors and engine control modules (ECMs), increasing the amount of data that needs to be managed and analyzed. This results in more complex decisions in both maintenance and real-time vehicle management.

Additionally, over-the-air (OTA) software update  capabilities are becoming essential, allowing updates and fixes to be applied remotely, thus enhancing vehicle uptime and the customer service experience. As vehicle technology evolves, the support infrastructure is innovating at a similar pace, ensuring it can meet future transportation demands efficiently.

The impact of regulations on the service network and vehicle operations

From a regulatory standpoint, the tightening of onboard diagnostics (OBD) standards marks a global shift towards stricter emissions control and enhanced transparency in vehicle operations. As these regulations become more rigorous, they demand an advanced approach to data management and analytics to ensure vehicles meet emissions standards and operate efficiently.

Increasingly stringent OBD standards require more detailed tracking of vehicle data. The importance of managing this data effectively extends throughout the engine's lifetime. Service providers must continuously monitor vehicle components, linking them to specific performance rates and closely monitoring after any repairs. This emphasis on detailed data management pushes the industry towards greater use of data analytics.

This regulatory shift also demands a change in the mindset from relying on physical data to embracing digital and virtual data. It necessitates not only technological adaptation but also the adaptation of engineering approaches to diagnosing complex systems based on ever increasing data streams. This approach ensures compliance with ongoing regulations while improving vehicle performance and supporting global sustainability efforts.

Considerations of factors that will impact the service network in the energy transition

The transition to a data-driven, digitally integrated service network brings significant changes beyond just meeting regulatory requirements. Shifting to a digital-first approach in vehicle servicing dramatically reduces the total cost of ownership. This reduction is achieved by cutting down on repair times and boosting vehicle uptime, which helps streamline operations and lower long-term expenses.

Enhanced efficiency through digital tools lowers emissions throughout a vehicle’s life, supporting broader environmental sustainability goals. However, this digital transition does involve upfront costs, particularly in IT infrastructure needed for large-scale data storage and management. Despite these initial costs, the investment pays off. Improved data capabilities drive higher vehicle uptime, meaning vehicles are operational more often and need fewer repairs. This not only saves money by reducing downtime but also optimizes the use of resources.

The integration of a robust Cummins certified service network, equipped with Cummins’ advanced digital service tools – Guidanz , is essential in supporting the transportation industry's transition to cleaner, more sustainable technologies. Cummins’ Guidanz Diagnostic Toolkit and Service Event Management combine to give service providers the ability to deliver legendary service maximizing bay productivity and vehicle uptime. This network not only ensures high service standards with stringent regulations but also enhances vehicle performance, reliability, and overall customer satisfaction.