3 Examples of Automakers Using Virtual Or Augmented Reality
The automotive industry is embracing cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize various aspects of car manufacturing and maintenance. Virtual and augmented reality are at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative solutions for design, service, and customer experience. This article explores real-world examples from leading automakers, featuring expert insights on how these technologies are reshaping the future of the automotive sector.
- Porsche's AR Glasses Revolutionize Technical Service
- Ford Accelerates Design with Virtual Reality
- Volkswagen's MARTA App Enhances Car Maintenance
Porsche's AR Glasses Revolutionize Technical Service
One standout example is Porsche's use of augmented reality for technical service and training. Their "Tech Live Look" system allows dealership technicians to wear AR glasses and connect in real-time with remote experts at Porsche HQ. These experts can see what the technician sees, overlay instructions or diagrams, and guide complex repairs step-by-step.
This innovation significantly reduces repair time, improves accuracy, and minimizes vehicle downtime—a huge benefit in luxury performance markets where precision and customer satisfaction are paramount.
Beyond service, VR is also being used in car design and virtual showrooms, allowing customers to experience and customize vehicles without setting foot in a dealership.
Ford Accelerates Design with Virtual Reality
Ford has been doing some interesting work in the area of virtual reality. Their designers and engineers don a VR headset before they ever create a new car and "walk around" the car in a virtual environment. They verify the design, correct issues, and even check how easy it is to see out the windows or access the buttons -- all without creating a physical model.
The big advantage is time and money saved. Rather than constructing numerous actual cars to find errors, they identify most of them early in the process. It also accelerates the process -- the cars can end up in production a whole lot faster. And, of course, the cars are safer as well, since Ford can do crash tests in VR before they do them in the real world.
Volkswagen's MARTA App Enhances Car Maintenance
One great example of an automaker using augmented reality is Volkswagen's MARTA app. It provides car owners with step-by-step instructions using AR, overlaying 3D visuals on the real parts of the vehicle. I have seen this technology up close while helping a client test mobile security protocols on AR-driven apps. It is user-friendly and reduces the learning curve for car maintenance. It is a perfect blend of customer education and convenience.
In the shop or the field, AR makes a significant difference. I have worked with technicians who needed quick visual references for unfamiliar equipment. AR apps reduce troubleshooting time and make the training process smoother. At Tech Advisors, we have even helped businesses set up AR-based remote support for their teams. It is effective, especially in high-pressure environments where accuracy matters.
If you are in the auto industry—or supporting it—my advice is to consider AR not just for flash but for function. It improves technician training, supports safer driving, and lowers costs tied to errors and downtime. I remember a conversation with Elmo Taddeo about how visual tools speed up decision-making. He was right. The future is not just about speed; it is about clarity. AR delivers both.
