A reimagined inspection process, an all-new inspection platform, condition reports that automatically follow vehicles across locations and an “Approvals from Anywhere” tool are among Manheim’s latest additions to its inspection and condition reporting technologies.

Manheim developed the most recent advancements in partnership with vehicle inspection company Alliance Inspection Management and says the additions provide buyers with “greater peace of mind when doing business digitally.”

A next generation inspection platform is one of those additions, and Manheim says AiM is powering the platform, which now features all-new hardware and software. The company says it built that software from the ground up, which it says will provide a faster and more consistent inspection.

Methodically guiding inspectors around the vehicle, the tool uses standard descriptions for vehicle issues. That, according to Manheim, reduces subjectivity for damage description and severity.

Because the new inspection devices are also equipped with 4G connectivity, that provides more mobility for inspectors inside and outside the auction gates, according to Manheim.

Automated build data is another addition, and Manheim says that human error in the new platform drops significantly through enhanced build data obtained via OEM and Chrome integrations.

Manheim adds that this data brings in VIN-specific details about each vehicle. That ensures that information such as year/make/model, trim level, color, interior, standard equipment, packages and options are imported automatically.

That enhancement speeds up inspection completion, according to the company. It also increases vehicle description accuracy, which the company describes as an important element in determining vehicle value.

Condition reports that automatically “follow” the vehicle are another enhancement, and Manheim says consignors that move vehicles between Manheim locations will appreciate that addition. With the new technology, condition reports can automatically “follow” vehicles.

Previously, if a vehicle inspection took place at one location and then moved to another, a manual process was necessary to transfer the original condition report to the new location. Now, however, the vehicle is automatically recognized by its VIN. The second inspector can confirm or update the condition. Instead of starting over, repurposing this information will improve Manheim condition reports’ consistency and accuracy.

Approvals from anywhere are an additional enhancement, and Manheim says clients using its reconditioning services can now make quicker and more informed decisions through the ability to review estimates and approve repairs on any device through their Seller Dashboard. Before that enhancement, clients would approve repairs in person, Manheim said. The new enhancement, however, gives them anytime, anywhere access to their estimates, and they also see an “intuitive process” to approve desired repairs.

Manheim says that new functionality speeds up the approvals process, keeping clients’ vehicles moving on the lot.

“The future of vehicle information combines the best technologies with the most comprehensive data — two things Manheim is uniquely positioned to capitalize on,” Manheim senior vice president of assurance and reconditioning Fredrick Standfield said in a news release. “As we move quickly toward automating vehicle information capturing, we will employ emerging technologies leveraging AI and Intelligent Damage Detection, adding significant value for our clients.”

Standfield added, “The rise of digital buying demands more accurate and consistent condition information, as fewer and fewer consignors are physically kicking the tires of their potential purchases.

“Manheim is leading the industry with unmatched data intelligence and new technologies — lessening subjectivity and delivering more comprehensive and actionable insights before the purchase.”