Systems that allow vans, trucks and cars to book their own repair and maintenance appointments are potentially "just a matter of years away," according to fleet software market leader CFC Solutions.  The firm says that one of the keys to this a combination of onboard diagnostics and dedicated mobile internet access.  But one of the obstacles is the driver.  The vehicle can book itself in but it needs to know when a driver will be available to deliver and collect.  "Vehicles can communicate through a mobile internet link to one of CFC's fleet software systems; this can authorise work with fleet managers and check directly with dealer or in-house workshop diaries to find available dates," says Neville Briggs, MD at CFC.  The only part of the service unresolved is a way to check driver availability, but he is confident the firm will overcome this one soon.
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