VR technologies in automotive industry in South Africa

In recent years, virtual reality has become an indispensable tool for many industries, and the automotive industry is no exception. Virtual reality lessons for automotive organisations provide indispensable assistance in improving the design, production and maintenance processes of vehicles.

One of the most important benefits of using virtual reality in the automotive industry is the ability to create 3D models of vehicles and their components, allowing engineers and designers to easily interact with and see objects in real time. This helps in improving the design process and reducing the chances of errors.

VR is a simulation that completely alters the user’s surroundings, by providing interaction with objects, the ability to move around, and perform gestures harnessing the user’s five senses, of sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell – giving a more interactive and realistic “feel”.

In addition, virtual reality allows automotive organisations to create training simulations to train employees including mechanics, drivers and salespeople. This enables employees to learn new skills and technologies before they are put into practice, increasing efficiency and safety.

Another benefit of using virtual reality for automotive organisations is the ability to conduct virtual tests and trials without the need for real vehicles. This reduces the time and cost of developing new models, as well as preventing potential accidents and damage.

Associate Professor of Durban University of Technology Shalini Singh underlines that the simulation can be conducted throughout the world therefore travelling costs and traveling time of engineers and designers are reduced as they can interact and work remotely.

In looking at the sector in South Africa, professor Shalini Singh emphasises a few points:

“It is, therefore, reasonable to assume that the benefits and prospective cost and time savings offered by VR technology far outweigh the initial investment. Consequently, a proactive approach is strongly recommended. all organisations within the South African automotive sector should consider embarking on their VR journey now to remain competitive and well-prepared for the industry's rapidly evolving landscape.”

Thus VR can be incredibly useful for presentations and marketing, allowing stakeholders and potential customers to experience the product virtually. For example, automotive designers can showcase new car models in VR, allowing users to explore the vehicle’s interior and exterior in 3D before it’s physically produced.

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