Fleet maintenance services: a case report of over 1,600 buses in Chile

A fleet maintenance inspection is a requirement in bus supply concession contracts, which is why both system operators and bus suppliers decided to collaborate with Applus+ for the maintenance inspection of their assets, ensuring the long-term safety and optimal condition of the vehicles.

Currently, Applus+ conducts technical inspections, general inspections, and documentation audits for 1,689 buses. Of these, 1,639 are high-quality, low-emission diesel units, and 50 are fully electric vehicles.

Inspections are primarily visual, combining the manufacturer's work procedures and tolerances with the bus operator's protocols. Emissions control complies with current legislation, focusing mainly on opacity and particulate matter (PM 2.5). Additionally, lighting, brakes, steering, and other critical bus systems are inspected to ensure safety.

For this specific project, Applus+ developed the CERTIFICA computer platform, which is compatible with both Windows and Android. This platform stores all documentary information, vehicle inspection results, and measurements in real-time, providing an up-to-date and readily available data repository. By eliminating the need for paper, CERTIFICA overcomes technological barriers and streamlines the inspection process.

This project provides several benefits to both the client and the citizens:

• Regular bus maintenance inspections ensure greater efficiency, safety, and quality of service. This results in shorter waiting times for users and guarantees that the vehicles remain in excellent mechanical and physical condition.
• Contract milestones are consistently met, helping the operator avoid fines for non-compliance.
• The operator also benefits directly through improved service quality indicators, fewer unexpected breakdowns, and the ability to utilize the entire fleet effectively.
• Economic advantages are evident in the improved energy efficiency of well-maintained buses and reduced travel times, which positively impact both users and the city as a whole.

Applus+ boasts a multidisciplinary team with extensive expertise in management tools, enabling tasks to be completed quickly and efficiently. This includes the use of mobile technological applications and the development of customised digital solutions.

Currently, new tenders now include contractual obligations for maintenance inspections of all buses, ensuring high standards for future fleets and concessions.