RAC’s Nebula Systems to launch MECH5 diagnostics platform in September

Following its acquisition by the RAC, Nebula Systems is preparing to launch commercially its MECH5 diagnostics platform for independent garages. The platform will initially offer the functionality of Superscan 3 on a pay-as-you-go basis. With the help of the RAC investment, Nebula says it will use the flexibility of scalable cloud-based IT infrastructure to develop MECH5 rapidly.

Formed in 2013, Nebula Systems aimed to harness the combined expertise of Maverick Technology (UK) Ltd and Argentina’s DEC Automotive, working on next-generation cloud-based diagnostics and data systems. DEC Automotive began in 1995 to meet demand for automotive diagnostic tools in the South American market, later growing into a world leader in equipment manufacture and software development. Meanwhile Maverick was established in 1999, then supporting independent garages moving into the fast-developing world of advanced diagnostic tools, since successfully selling and supporting many market leading brands. These included DEC’s ‘Superscan’ which is now in its 3rdgeneration.

Explaining the acquisition in March, RAC Telematics managing director Nick Walker anticipated it would “lead to the RAC moving from a reactive, to a proactive and ultimately predictive breakdown service.” In the months since, DEC has relocated its core team from Argentina into the Buckingham-based head office and development centre. Staff levels are at 25 with more recruitment planned.

Andrew Steer, CEO of Nebula Systems said in March that the RAC deal would “give us the massive boost we have been looking for so that we can accelerate the development of our own exciting and disruptive aftermarket projects.”

Commenting on a successful soft-launch of MECH5 at Automechanika Birmingham in June, Steer said: “Everyone that’s visited the stand has been amazed at what we’ve done. The feedback has been really good.”