Preparing your fleet and workshops for winter, whilst also managing the fluctuations of the Covid, may provide some additional battery-related challenges for fleet Managers and Owners. Covid lockdowns, in theory, should mean that there is a reduced requirement to replace batteries; but this period has also meant that many batteries have not been maintained. We’re here to help you wrap up Winter and ensure that you get the best out of your batteries.
ROBIS is an industry-first web-based dashboard and proactive battery management reporting system from Rotronics, which is ideal for remote working. The system allows remote access to workshop battery data and reports, with wirelessly uploaded test results as they happen, giving clear visibility regarding workshop productivity.
The following analysis shows ROBIS reported testing by commercial workshop customer segments over Winter 2019 (Nov19-Feb 2020) during routine maintenance and represents 93,000 battery tests.
- The data shows that Dealer workshop vehicles are least prone to battery related issues, however, 27% of batteries that have been tested still require attention.
- Fleet vehicles were most exposed to problems, with a staggering 64% of all batteries tested, as part of routine maintenance, requiring either charging or replacement.
Ken Clark, Managing Director at Rotronics, says: “Compare this trend to this summer’s performance and it doesn’t get much better. However, we have had the impact of COVID-19 with vehicles having been “laid up” and inoperative sometime during this period.
“We are able to help our customers extend battery life and vehicle reliability, minimise vehicle downtime and cut battery replacement costs, through preventative maintenance. ROBIS can also support a no quibble warranty claim process.”
It is important to focus on your Winter preparation because battery problems remain the most frequent reason for roadside non-starts and battery failures. Non-starts create very expensive, time-consuming diversions at this time of year.
Ken Clark, Managing Director at Rotronics, says: “Relationships with customers can be extremely testy if delivery targets are missed and most problems faced should be avoided with a little care, maintenance and preparation.
“Temperature drops will alter a battery’s performance and, in extreme chill, this can be as much as a 50% dip. The shorter days increase power demands on all vehicles with lighting, heating systems, electrics, heated seats and de-misting windows etc.”
The Rotronics Battery Management Programme will help you focus on key points for success.
Ken Cark says: “Prepare the fleet well in advance because battery problems can account for around 20% of costs.”
