By Jim Utter
Director of Journalism
WashTec, a leading provider of innovative car wash systems and solutions used internationally, has introduced a comprehensive new line of digital services to improve services for operators and customers.
With the introduction of SmartCare Connect, which uses sensors to detect vehicle size and adjust wash programs automatically, and a slew of new digital services, WashTec hopes to present itself as a holistic solution for its customers.
“What has long been common practice in other industries – namely, the convenient retrieval and ordering of services with apps, subscriptions and flat rates – is now being widely adopted by us for vehicle washing,” Sebastian Kutz, CSO of WashTec AG, said in a statement.
For operators, this means new growth opportunities, while for consumers it marks a breakthrough in user-friendliness.
In some markets, such as Denmark or Norway, WashTec already has such applications successfully in operation and has seen improved results – at times up to 30 percent higher washing figures.
The highlights of WashTec’s new solutions:
SmartCare Connect
The gantry car wash is equipped with the latest washing technology and is ready for the future requirements of digitalization. Innovative sensors detect the vehicle size and shape in real time and automatically adjust the washing program accordingly. It also allows the operator to quickly and easily set up individual washing programs, speeds and overflows.
WashNow
WashNow is a completely new sales platform or marketplace where operators and other market players, such as carmakers, fleet card or car sharing providers, can offer vehicle washes. Via an app or the vehicle’s infotainment system, end users can see where a WashNow car wash is currently available and book it directly. If the car wash is also connected to the platform’s payment system, the wash is automatically billed.
EasyCarWash PRO
This app-based solution enables operators to digitally market individual washes and flexible subscription models. Fast and uncomplicated customer registration and extensive marketing tools help to attract new customers and retain them in the long term.
CarWash Assist
This digital service offers operators remote monitoring of the system without them having to be on site. It acts as a modern hotline that car wash customers can use if needed. For the first time, WashTec is not only able to offer remote maintenance, but can also intervene directly in the control system and rectify faults remotely. This makes operators significantly less dependent on on-site operating personnel.
With these innovations, WashTec is providing forward-looking answers to some of the challenges currently being faced in the market.
Seasonal fluctuations in capacity utilization, rising energy costs, growing environmental regulations and new consumer demands for convenience and speed have had a negative impact on operators’ business models in recent years.
With its combination of networked car washes, leading washing chemicals and new digital solutions, WashTec is positioning itself as a viable option for operators and consumers alike, while actively shaping the digital transformation of the industry.
The new solutions also contribute to sustainability, for example by further reducing water and energy consumption and using biodegradable washing chemicals.
“With the transformation from a traditional machine manufacturer to an integrated solution provider, we are opening a new chapter in our company history, which began in 1885,” said Michael Drolshagen, CEO of WashTec.
“To achieve this, we are in the process of reinventing ourselves and taking our customers with us on this journey.”
WashTec will introduce the new solutions to the respective markets in a “step by step” approach, connect further types of car wash such as self-service car washes or conveyor tunnel car washes and further develop the applications.
“The digitalization of the car wash is long overdue, and I am pleased that we at WashTec are now pioneers in this regard,” Kutz said.
The WashTec Group, based in Augsburg, Germany, employs around 1,700 people worldwide and has subsidiaries in the markets of Europe, North America and Asia/Pacific. In addition, WashTec is on the map in some 80 countries through independent dealers.
