Delphi Technologies says demand from independent garages for its BlueTech diagnostics package has been rising, as awareness of the platform’s capabilities grows.
First launched in 2021, the BlueTech vehicle communication interface (VCI) is said to bring state-of-the-art OBD diagnostics to garages. Though they can choose to buy the DS180 BlueTech VCI only, apparently most are now opting for the ‘Car Kit’ package, upgraded in the first quarter of 2023.
The ‘Car Kit’ combines the DS180 VCI hardware with a carry case – plus accessories including the USB hub needed to support J2534 ‘Pass-Thru’. The kit reportedly also includes a faster, larger and more powerful tablet to run the growing software resources quickly and reliably.
With the upgraded tablet allegedly proving an attraction, Delphi urges garages looking at making investment in enhancing their diagnostics capabilities to do two things. The first is to take a long-term view and the second is to fully evaluate the resources and support behind the equipment.
“The challenge is to not just think about today but the vehicles you will see in 3 to 5 years time as you don’t want to discover you are restricted later,” said Marco Lagomarsini, EMEA Commercial Lead for Workshop Solutions at Delphi Technologies Aftermarket. “The problem for technicians is more and more jobs on newer vehicles will require a modern diagnostic tool and connectivity is becoming more tightly controlled.
“Our BlueTech VCI offers a ‘future proof’ solution that works as seamlessly as possible with the latest vehicle manufacturer gateways with excellent coverage and capabilities too.”
The DS180 BlueTech device claims to be J2534 Pass-Thru enabled to ‘flash’ update ECUs effectively. It also supposedly offers an ‘integrated solution’ for connection through the security gateways of many vehicle manufacturers, saving technicians the time of completing multiple manual registrations for different VM portals.
Delphi’s simple licensing model includes its full support package. This is said to bring free access to the diagnostic e-learning content on Delphi Academy. It claims the fee also ensures access to a technical hotline and ‘lifetime warranty’ on the VCI hardware where an uninterrupted licence is in place.
“The licence includes ADAS capabilities, security gateways and VRM look-up so there’s no ‘extras’ to pay later,” said Marco. “The e-learning resources are comprehensive to help garages set up and use the package, run procedures and better understand Pass-Thru and security gateways.”
