Hartwell, the Oxford-based dealer group, is using wireless technology in its workshop to reduce downtime. The Sequoia system will control all jobs going through the workshop and will ultimately allow drivers track cars' progress through the workshop over the web.

More than 280 wireless broadband terminals have been installed in all 42 dealerships. These interactive terminals allow mechanics to access the company's central server and immediately book a job.

But they can also be used to cost work, build invoices and receive information for new jobs directly cutting the time wasted by mechanics waiting to consult with the workshop controller.