Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) has launched a new cloud-based online fleet management and pre-emptive diagnostic system that it describes as “a significant step towards revolutionising the process of vehicle inspection, servicing and maintenance”.
Branded as AD Connected, the new system has been trialled and developed over a period of 24 months by several of ADL’s customers.
AD Connected provides an in-depth level of operational analysis and preventative diagnostics. The system provides a clear, concise pathway, linking direct to operators either by registration, fleet or chassis number. There are various support approaches that can be tailored to each customer’s needs. AD Connected can also be used on the entire fleet range rather than be specific to one product or commodity type.
Touchscreen menus enable engineers and inspectors to move quickly around a vehicle, scrolling through options and selecting the appropriate icon. Previous vehicle issues and recorded fault codes are also displayed on the tablet to provide a preventative maintenance guide, allowing operators to carry out repairs before issues occur.
There is an option to add text notes, images and video recordings that can assist engineering teams and mechanics to initiate modifications and repairs quickly. The system can also be customised to meet the needs of individual operators.
After the vehicle checks are complete, AD Connected synchronises data to the main system giving engineers immediate access to accurate information through web applications. Faults can be scrutinised, organised and incorporated in a report that highlights how vehicle performance can be improved and up-time maximised.
On the web application, operators can access a dashboard that enables them to view live information, service management and diagnostics, along with current vehicle status reports.
Other options include a comprehensive telematics suite providing in-depth, live vehicle data on faults, predictions and recommended actions, fuel and driver performance. In addition, ADL has also developed AD Protect, a bridge warning system that uses geo-fencing to trigger an audible alarm for drivers on the approach to low-height hazards.
George McAdam, ADL’s group quality and aftermarket director, commented: “AD Connected is an exciting bus industry first and we are delighted to be leading the way with this breakthrough technology.
“We have developed it in conjunction with customers such as trentbarton, Blackpool Transport and Whitelaw’s Coaches, along with key providers in our supply chain network.
“AD Connected is unique in many ways, particularly in the options that can be configured, thereby enabling operators to bolt on the preferences that best suit their budget and operational needs.”
 has launched a new cloud-based online fleet management and pre-emptive diagnostic system that it describes as "a significant step towards revolutionising the process of vehicle inspection, servicing and maintenance".){kind=link}