Opses, founded in 2015 by Tom Haye, continues to lead the way in providing cutting-edge solutions for emergency service vehicles. The company’s focus is on enhancing vehicle safety and functionality by integrating third-party equipment into existing vehicle systems, with a special emphasis on using the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) touchscreens to control the devices. This replaces the traditional physical hardware often installed on dashboards, streamlining the operation for emergency responders.
During the 2024 AFAC Conference and Exhibition, held in Sydney, Tom Haye, CEO of Opses, spoke to Fleet Auto News and discussed the growing interest in safer in-vehicle controls, driven by customer demand and vehicle manufacturers’ efforts.
“There’s a lot more interest now,” Tom explained. “Customers are pushing manufacturers like Ford, VW, and Skoda to make vehicles safer by moving controls onto touchscreens. We’re seeing that both in the UK and Australia.”
As safety standards evolve, the demand for integrated vehicle touchscreens is expanding, particularly in emergency vehicles that need to handle complex systems such as emergency light control panels, service radios, and camera systems like ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition).
At the AFAC event, Opses displayed some of their exciting collaborations, showcasing vehicles like the INEOS Grenadier.
“INEOS approached us after seeing what we did for VW and Ford, asking if we could do the same for them. We developed an identical vehicle in the UK, which is now being demonstrated to fire, police, and ambulance services in Australia,” Tom shared. This partnership highlights how Opses’ solutions are adaptable to different vehicle manufacturers and are already gaining traction in various markets, from the UK to Australia and beyond.
Tom’s presence at AFAC underscores his commitment to staying connected with the market and understanding the evolving needs of emergency service providers. “I think it’s the right stepping stone to move into the Australian market,” he said, emphasising the importance of direct engagement with customers. His attendance at the event allows him to showcase Opses’ products and gain valuable feedback, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of vehicle safety technology.
Looking ahead, Opses is set to continue expanding its presence in Australia and New Zealand, with plans for future appearances at events like AFAC Perth next year. “Perth will be smaller, but it’s a great opportunity to engage more with customers in Western Australia,” Tom noted. This focus on customer relationships, combined with Opses’ innovative approach to integrating emergency systems into vehicle touchscreens, positions the company for sustained growth in the region.
Opses’ products not only address the current market demands but also anticipate future trends. With legislation in Europe pushing for larger screens in vehicles to reduce driver distractions, Opses is well-positioned to take advantage of this shift. Their solutions, which integrate emergency systems into larger touchscreens, ensure that first responders have access to critical technology without compromising safety.
By attending events like AFAC, Tom Haye and Opses demonstrate their dedication to driving innovation in the emergency services industry. As vehicle safety and technology continue to evolve, Opses is ready to meet the challenge, making vehicles safer and more efficient for emergency responders around the world.
