Cardiff Bus has adopted digital maintenance systems with supplier Freeway Fleet Systems to streamline its engineering efficiency.
The operator’s engineers have been equipped with tablets supplied by Freeway as part of a “digitisation programme” aimed at eliminating paper and providing real-time information on workshop activities and vehicle availability.
The move builds on an existing partnership; Freeway’s software is already used to schedule maintenance work, manage defects, parts and fuel spend for Cardiff Bus.
A mobile web app provided by Freeway removes the need for paper forms such as job cards. The devices synchronise real-time with Freeway’s central system, giving what it says is a “first-hand view of the status of every vehicles, ensuring managers are immediately aware of any issues”.
The tablets also link engineering to stores and purchasing already managed by Freeway, speeding up the process of locating the correct part required for a job.
“With the tablets we’re already getting real-time inspection reports so we are much more informed — and instantly informed,” comments Cardiff Bus Engineering Manager Chris Morgan. “One phenomenal feature is that fitters have the complete maintenance histories in the palm of their hand. That helps take away any doubt; they can see what work was done previously, what parts were used and immediately spot recurring defects.”
The operator is also working with Freeway on introducing “dashboard software” that provides a live view of all daily work in progress, which will be displayed through a large wall-mounted screen in the workshop office. When defects are reported by drivers, they will be displayed, allowing engineers to know what needs to be repaired before morning run-out.
“That’s the sort of additional visibility that Freeway offers and really makes a difference, and means we can better utilise resources, respond quicker and be more efficient,” adds Mr Morgan.
Cardiff Bus operates 175 buses that serve some 100,000 passengers daily across 3,000 journeys and 27,000 miles. It runs what is believed to be the largest fleet of zero-emission buses in the region with 55 fully electric vehicles.
