How will compulsory driver assistance inflict car washing?
Anyone who bought a new car in the European Union in the last two years noticed their new vehicle also had a few ‘driver assistance systems’ installed. From July, it will even be compulsory for new cars to be fitted with these systems. This technology, also known as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), will have an impact on the car wash industry.
The changes are part of an EU regulation aimed at reducing road accidents and minimizing the risk of serious accidents.
Driver assistance systems are divided into 5 categories. These are based on research carried out by US Consumer Reports in conjunction with companies in the automotive industry.
- Driving Assistance: Active driving assistance for non-critical situations by (partially) taking over the steering.
- Collision warning systems: Systems that warn of imminent danger but cannot intervene themselves.
- Collision Intervention Systems: Systems that can intervene in the event of imminent danger.
- Parking assistance: Systems that can (partially) take over parking/maneuvering.
- Other systems: Safety systems that assist the driver but do not fall into the other 4 categories.
For car wash operators, ADAS presents both challenges and opportunities to differentiate themselves in the marketplace.
Braking
Emergency Braking Assist can intervene immediately before an impending collision by automatically initiating emergency braking. For car washes, this means anticipating eventualities when guiding vehicles through the facility – for example, if a car stops abruptly because the vehicle’s sensors inadvertently detect an obstacle.
text continues under photo
Challenges
While the wash process remains the same for new cars equipped in this way, the innovations pose a number of challenges for car wash operators. It is increasingly important for car washes and their operations to be compatible with modern systems. The interaction between the DAS sensors and the mechanical components of the carwash must be thoroughly tested to ensure that vehicle safety is maintained during the washing process and that no malfunctions occur.
Adjustments to wash programmes
Car wash operators may need to modify their operations to avoid such problems. Adjustments required may include
- In-depth knowledge of exactly how the FAS sensors work.
- Training staff to deal with the latest vehicle models and their technologies
- Installing warning signs for customers to inform them of the correct way to prepare their vehicle for the wash cycle.
Manufacturers of car wash technology and equipment will also need to keep a close eye on developments so that they can make and test their own modifications if necessary.
Investing in the future
Despite the challenges, the new technology standards also present opportunities. Car Washes that adapt early and invest accordingly can position themselves as leaders in innovation and customer-friendliness.
Investing in the latest equipment and training can not only increase long-term customer satisfaction, but also contribute to road safety. As the new regulations do not require the retrofitting of vehicles already on the market, there will be a delay before the new requirements have a significant impact on the market. This should be taken into account in the planning of current construction projects.
Also read:
