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Do you wish you could predict when your car was going to break down and take care of the problem before you’re stranded? Ultrium is doing just that with the help of Artificial Intelligence and innovative vehicle data.
With a grant of $100,000 from Michigan Central, Ultrium CEO and founder Paris Plain has rolled out the first pilot program for the service, beginning their journey to revolutionize the vehicle maintenance sector. Their current prototype has already demonstrated success, leading to an incredible 20 percent reduction in maintenance expenses for its initial partners.
“Detroit is the perfect place for us. It’s got the history, the talent, and the infrastructure to support a company like Ultrium,” Plain said. “Michigan Central is really pushing forward with innovation, making it easier for companies like ours to thrive. We’re excited to be part of that story.”
The service works by connecting a small device to a vehicle’s diagnostic system. This data is regularly transmitted via cell service to a receiving center, where it is analyzed and used to make predictions on maintenance needs. Both the mechanic working on the vehicle and the owner can see in real time any repairs the vehicle might require.
The prototype service is being tested primarily on vehicle fleets, including a towing service in Detroit, and the company is having conversations to potentially work with the Michigan Department of Transportation and Detroit Police Department, with consumer use to follow.
“In the future, we see our customer base expanding beyond fleets to small businesses and individual owners,” said Plain, “and we plan to hire more talent as we continue to grow.”