AI in Shared Mobility: Damage Management and Detection

Companies across the shared mobility sector are leveraging artificial intelligence to revamp, reimagine, and revolutionize the face of the industry. In this series of articles, we will explore how utilizing AI tools in shared mobility is transforming the industry and to what effect. Today, we will look at AI damage management and detection to see how this technology serves to improve efficiency and automate processes that free up human capabilities for more complex management operations.

AI Solutions in Shared Mobility

The use of AI for damage management and detection in shared mobility presents a clear-cut example of how utilizing this new technology can vastly improve the operational efficiency and responsiveness of a shared mobility company. AI-based solutions can eliminate the waste of time and resources spent on traditionally mundane, repetitive, manual tasks while also protecting an operator’s most valuable asset.  

To begin, let us explore the example of Vulog’s mobility showcase, Leo&Go carsharing, where a recent pilot program utilizing AI damage detection was implemented, and the results speak for themselves.

Leo&Go’s AI Damage Management Tool Saves Hours of Labor 

By utilizing AI to scan photos customers take of a vehicle’s exterior, the program is able to compare the state of the car against a vast database of pictures, both damaged and undamaged, in order to determine the existence of new or existing damage on the vehicle. These photos can then be archived and referenced based on damage type, area of the vehicle, or by license plate number. 

For Leo&Go, this smart technology effectively eliminates the need for human representatives to look at 97% of all photos submitted by customers. The remaining 3% flagged as requiring action can then be passed on to the support team. This automatic filtering allows them to quickly verify real damage, and move forward in terms of invoicing, insurance, and repairs in short order. 

Prior to implementation, Leo&Go staff were required to manually inspect over 1,000 client photos sent in every day, leading to excessive wait times and increased human errors after hours of repetitive work. he team has reclaimed over two hours a day, which can be dedicated to focusing on more pressing needs and improving the customer experience. 

Leo&Go managed to save valuable time with the inclusion of AI damage detection in their app 

Shared Mobility AI Damage Detection Tools Come In All Sizes

In the car leasing and rental realms, variations of AI damage detection software are becoming more prevalent and finding space for both general and specialized needs. For instance, large-scale, industrial scanners are being tested by SIXT in partnership with ProovStation to automate car rental returns. Featuring a suite of sensors, cameras and a built-in lighting system, the goal of the product is to provide consumers a “fair and transparent” damage management process. 

Credits: Tanguy Legouémier / ProovStation

Many innovators are improving AI scanning and computer vision using the most convenient tool: the smartphone. Numerous programs are being developed to detect damage, assess insurance claims, and estimate repair costs from images and videos, often submitted via smartphone apps. One example is Boston-based Tcheck.ai, which offers a damage detection system and upcoming features like checks for seats, interiors, tires, and rims.

These AI programs can help improve safety and parking for shared micromobility fleets as well. Captur.ai, for example, can scan the area around an e-scooter or bike to detect whether it has been properly parked and will not allow the rider to end the session until they have done so. 

The Future of AI Damage Management and Detection in Shared Mobility 

AI damage management and detection technology can address numerous use cases in the shared mobility industry, with potential users including automotive resellers, OEMs, fleet rental companies, shared mobility providers, and logistics companies, to name just a few.

Credits: UMUT DAĞLI / Pexels

The success stories of AI damage-related tools at companies like Leo&Go and beyond have given us a front-row seat to its transformative impact on the industry. As the technology continues to evolve and new, tailored solutions emerge, it will be a game-changer for operators looking to maintain their fleets, elevate customer satisfaction, and streamline operations like never before.

To learn more about how Vulog can support your shared mobility operations, download our AI-Powered Platform brochure, and be sure to subscribe to the Inside Leo&Go newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of our emerging insights and solutions from the streets of Lyon.

Want to learn more about how Leo&Go’s damage management tool can leverage your operations? Contact us and book a demo today!