Audi takes on BMW, Mercedes with video servicing
The end of rip-off garages in the UK could be here as 'Big Brother' moves into Audi service centres to film technicians as they work.
Customers leaving their cars at the dealership will then be able to view clips of their car showing what needs to be repaired before allowing the work to continue in a groundbreaking new scheme from the German manufacturer.
Audi has introduced 'AudiCam' into its UK dealerships, where hand-held cameras will film technicians at work and upload videos onto a website for its customers to view.
Each customer will get a personalised page where they can view the videos showing, for example, a worn brake disc or damaged tyre, and remotely allow technicians to repair the damage without visiting the dealership.
Audi will be able to send price quotes for any repair work and information on the team who will fix the problem.
Audi has described the technology as 'advancing the art of looking after those cars and their drivers'. It follows an announcement last month highlighting the brand's new 'virtual showrooms' where customers can configure a CGI image of a car before making their order in-store.
The German premium manufacturer, which builds a selection of small cars including the Audi A1, a multi award-winning small car, executive cars such as the Audi A5 and SUVs such as the Audi Q5, is one of the UK's most popular premium brands.
Audi prices are designed to compete with BMW and Mercedes prices at the top end of the car market and the premium feel to its cars, coupled with excellent reliability scores and plenty of new car equipment mean Audi enjoys strong residual values and increasing popularity in the UK.
If you want to know more about Audi prices or compare Audi prices with those of BMW and Mercedes, use the links to access Oneswoop's dedicated car comparison service.