Tech entrepreneur Steph Kennard has launched a free app that in just three weeks has topped the New Zealand app charts beating out Google to gain the coveted number one spot.
Bonnet is a free, easy-to-use app that solves a major problem for New Zealand drivers by centralising vehicle administration. In two weeks, the app has been downloaded over 10,000 times and 21,700 cars have been loaded onto the app.
In a New Zealand first, Bonnet users can keep track of WOF, regos, paid Road User Charges (RUCs) mileage, service dates, and warranties for all their vehicles, from a single car to a family load or fleet, eliminating the stress of a surprise fine or overdue services.
“Over 10,000 downloads in just a few weeks have smashed all our expectations. Already, some users have found that they are mistakenly overdue on their diesel mileage, and fleet owners are thrilled to have a centralised point to manage their vehicles,” says app founder Steph Kennard.
270 service centres across New Zealand are now on the Bonnet app to create a more seamless booking and record system for their customers. The app uses a simple booking system that works within service centres’ existing websites, making it easier than ever for customers to book in services the moment they are due.
“We found that many local service centres were still using manual booking systems and with Bonnet we’ve made it easy and cost effective to create an online booking system that customers have come to expect these days without the need for an expensive system upgrade,” Steph continues.
Six years in the making, Steph says she saw a clear gap in the market after working in the vehicle industry for many years.
“Vehicle admin can be a nightmare for families and fleet owners, it’s easy to lose track of when your registration or service is due leading to unnecessary fines or repairs. Especially when you’re trying to manage multiple vehicles,” says Steph.
The Kiwi app is free and easy to use, requiring users to simply enter their number plate to access all relevant information. Bonnet ensures that all data pulled into the app is accurate, giving users peace of mind knowing that they have reliable information about their vehicles.
“I work in the tech industry and have worked with a lot of car brands throughout my career. I saw an opportunity to solve a problem that effects a huge number of New Zealanders through a seamless app solution,” explains Steph.
Bonnet also recognises when a vehicle is a diesel car and automatically shows the driver’s paid RUC balance with the NZTA. This feature makes it easy for drivers to stay out of the fines’ way and avoid any unnecessary costs. Users will soon be able to load their service history into the app, eliminating the need for a physical glove box book and making it easier to sell their car with a transferable profile.
Bonnet has ambitious plans, including adding COF (heavy vehicles), toll payments, fines, and even insurance to the app. The app also aims to load all service centres in New Zealand, making it even easier for users to book appointments and keep track of their vehicle’s maintenance. “The goal is to become a one-stop-shop tool for all Kiwis’ vehicle administration needs,” says Steph.
Download Bonnet for free now via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and experience hassle-free vehicle administration.
