A new connected car service from the AA promises to help members prevent, predict and report breakdowns.
Integrated into the AA app, the Smart Breakdown service uses a small plug-in device fitted in the member’s car which transmits fault information to the AA and then notifies the member. This means the AA can alert the member when they need to take remedial action (for example turning their lights off), preventing a breakdown.
When it is not possible to prevent or predict a breakdown, Smart Breakdown automatically sends information about a fault directly to the AA, explaining what is wrong and where the driver is. The motoring organisation can then send out a patrol with the right parts to get the driver back on the road.
The AA also said that it will use the data like a telematics device to help develop “more tailored and more competitively priced” motor insurance products for AA members.
The new service follows on from the AA’s Car Genie offering, which used a connected device to check the health of the user’s car and warn of impending breakdowns.
Smart Breakdown is a premium tier of AA membership, priced at an additional £5 per month or £49 per year, depending on how members choose to pay. It will be made available before the end of the year.
“Our new Smart Breakdown offering, first of a raft of innovative products, will help motorists predict and prevent breakdowns or help them get back on the road faster if a breakdown happens,” said Simon Breakwell, CEO of the AA.
Connectivity is now compulsory for all new cars in Europe, and 5G will increase the possibilities for services like Smart Breakdown which provide monitoring and alerts. Read our Next-generation connectivity report to learn more about how the next wave of connectivity will impact transport and other sectors.
Tags: AA app, smart breakdown service
