Ten volume carmakers, several of the top AM100 dealer networks, fast-fit leaders and more than 4700 service outlets have signed up to what is flagged up as Britain's first workable service and maintenance e-trading standard.

1link Service Network was developed by automotive sector software specialist epyx to create electronic links between providers of vehicle service and maintenance facilities and large fleet customers.

But by connecting Audi, BMW, Citroen, Honda, Lexus, Mini, Volkswagen, Vauxhall, Peugeot and Toyota together with retailers Dixons, Pendragon, Lookers, Reg Vardy, Bristol Street, Caffyns, Arnold Clark and Glenvarigill and with Kwik-Fit, ATS, National Tyres and Autocare and Nationwide Autocentres, epyx appears to have achieved the long-sought holy grail of a common automotive platform.

Three more car manufacturers, a number of high profile retailer groups and hundreds more service outlets are expected to join the network this year.

Greg Connell, epyx managing director, says the service has succeeded – where other pioneering e-commerce 'standards' have failed to be widely taken up – principally because of its simplicity.

“This is by far the most advanced product of its type available, as well as being the easiest to adopt and use on a daily basis,” he claims.

Launched this month, 1link gives major customers requiring service, maintenance and repairs access to their approved network through an online directory. Work booking and confirmation can be carried out via the internet along with job authorisation, billing and payment.