UK-based software solutions provider Ebbon-Dacs has further enhanced its moDel electronic vehicle delivery and collection solution in readiness for UK vehicle delivery restrictions to be lifted.

Ebbon-Dacs’ commercial head – moDel, Michael Terry

The solution, which saw a record year in 2019 with over 343,000 vehicle movements, has benefited from two new releases in recent days to improve customer messaging and support – implemented in anticipation of the lockdown easing.

The UK’s British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) is one of a number of organisations that have been urging for dealerships and other delivery agents to start moving vehicles again “to unclog the thousands of cars and vans that are congesting the automotive supply chain”.

The BVRLA added that a letter from the Department for Transport has made it clear that logistics, including the collection and delivery of vehicles, should carry on during the lockdown, provided that it can be done in accordance with the government’s safety guidelines.

Michael Terry, head of commercial at Ebbon-Dacs, said: “We are starting to see pressure being applied to ease restrictions on vehicle movements and for vehicles to start being delivered again.

“Our message to customers is that, behind the scenes in lockdown, we have been enhancing the functionality of moDel so that we are ready to help and support that process with new features – and currently have several more projects in the pipeline.”

The first of the two latest releases improves upon the recently released Geo Comms vehicle tracking module, which provides end customers with the ability to track the delivery of their new vehicle.

Following customer feedback, users will have the option of sending the tracking link via SMS text message to end-customers to inform them of the delivery driver’s location, which will run alongside the current email functionality.

Also new is a standard messaging suite within the moDel portal that will enable users to send messages to customers or drivers based upon the status of key jobs within the portal. For example, communication can be sent to the end user confirming that their delivery has been arranged and booked.

At the same time, Ebbon-Dacs developers have upgraded the moDel support console with changes to the internal support system, which will allow support staff to answer and help deal with moDel queries more effectively.

Development is also under way to upgrade the standard integration feature between moDel and customers’ back offices. Ebbon-Dacs is working to introduce this in an API (Application Program Interface) format which will help drive further efficiencies and keep the product up-to-date with market leading functionality.

Ebbon-Dacs has also put together a best practice guide for the safe use of moDel, which details how the system can be utilised effectively whilst social distancing measures remain in place.

Michael Terry added: “We continue to invest heavily in the ongoing development of the moDel solution with exciting new functionality and features, and provide guidance for our customers in anticipation that lockdown will be eased and vehicle deliveries will start again soon safely and in accordance with government guidelines.’’