In the fast-paced world of the bus industry, bus operators face a constant challenge – keeping their fleets running smoothly and efficiently.
With a diverse range of vehicles, each with its own unique maintenance requirements, the task of managing a bus fleet can quickly become overwhelming.
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However, Irizar has a powerful tool to help streamline this process and revolutionise the way bus operators approach fleet maintenance.
The iService portal is an advanced digital platform that revolutionises fleet maintenance, enhances aftersales support and empowers operators with technical data.
“Customers love the iService portal because it makes their lives easier when it comes to maintaining their buses,” Irizar procurement and spare parts manager Maiko Souza told ABC.
“It’s basically a one-stop-shop for them, providing them with maintenance, technical and parts information in one place.”
This ensures that the portal is constantly updated with the latest technical data and maintenance requirements, providing customers with a comprehensive and up-to-date resource.
At the heart of the iService portal are three key pillars: technical documentation, spare parts catalogues and maintenance resources.
Accessing technical data of a particular bus is made easy, with operators able to retrieve maintenance-critical information simply by entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Body Number.
Customers can access the user manual for a particular bus, bringing up detailed guides on vehicle operation, system functionality and safety protocols.
There are also comprehensive specifications, component details and system performance metrics available within the portal, accessible with just the click of a button.
The platform includes step-by-step guidance for scheduled and preventive maintenance, tailored to the specific age and model of each customer’s buses. Customers can input their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Body Number to see the recommended maintenance tasks and timelines, ensuring they stay on top of critical servicing and repairs.
“Once the customer inputs this information in the portal, they can check based on the age of the bus, which maintenance is required,” Souza says.
“For instance, during a 12-month maintenance cycle, customers receive a clear and detailed overview of the specific components that require inspection, checking, cleaning, and replacement.
“It creates a customised schedule for what they have to do and when.”
A highlight for operators is also the bonus of accessing electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams. These detailed schematics aid in streamlining troubleshooting and repairs, reducing diagnostic time
and improving efficiency.
Ordering the right replacement parts is often complex, with each bus having unique requirements that can be difficult to navigate. iService simplifies this process by providing an intuitive digital parts catalogue.
The spare parts catalogue within the iService portal is a particularly valuable feature.
Customers can search for and view detailed information on the specific parts installed in their buses, including part numbers, images and technical specifications. This allows them to quickly and accurately identify the parts they need, streamlining the ordering process.
“Customers can check all parts that they have installed in their buses through the iService portal,” Souza says. “They can see the part numbers and even the photos, which makes it much easier for them to order the correct replacement parts.”
This integration between the technical data and the ordering process helps to minimise errors and ensure that the right parts are delivered in a timely manner.
The portal’s versatility caters to both large and small bus operators. Larger customers with their own workshops can use the iService portal to manage maintenance in-house, while smaller operators can rely on third-party maintenance providers who also utilise the platform.
The fully responsive iService Portal is accessible on desktops, tablets and smartphones, ensuring operators, technicians and fleet managers have instant access to essential data whenever and wherever they need it.
With an intuitive interface and seamless navigation, the platform ensures that support is always at your fingertips, whether in the depot or on the road.
“Our goal was to develop a program that simplifies operations for bus operators,” Souza says.
“We recognize the challenges they face and the complexity of managing maintenance effectively.
By integrating iService into daily workflows, operators have a powerful tool that serves as a reliable guide, ensuring smoother and more efficient operations.”