Audi initiates virtual reality training to prepare for regional launch of e-tron

Audi Middle East is pioneering virtual reality training for their dealer network in readiness for electrification and the arrival of e-tron in the region. The virtual technology allows realistic, safe learning of highly sensitive technologies such as the high-voltage battery. With the launch of the first all-electric series model from the four rings, new challenges are also facing Audi Middle Easts’ sales and service organisation.

Audi service technicians can now practice on the heart of the new e-tron: the high-voltage battery in a virtual space. In these process training courses, they learn step by step how to open the battery, change a switch box or change a battery module. The technicians are optimally prepared for the new model even before its market launch. In addition, employees and dealer staff can get to know the new, highly sensitive technology in virtual space without any risk, and can determine the training speed themselves.

The virtual reality training for service technology is based on a modular solution that utilises synergies with other parts of the company. Standard interactions such as gripping components are already pre-programmed, and existing design data such as for the battery can be imported into existing environment templates. This reduces production and development costs and makes the use of virtual reality in series production affordable.

A multi-user approach is also possible with this new form of virtual reality training. Teachers and students are able to meet together in a virtual space, even if they are physically in completely different locations. Augmented reality, the fusion of the real and virtual worlds, is also in preparation.

Audi Middle East is also pioneering the development of an application for car body experts in car dealerships that allows them to experience the Audi e-tron as a 3D model in real size via a tablet. Animations then show the service technicians the individual repair steps in detail. All Audi’s training content is available to service partners worldwide in a cloud-based knowledge database and can be accessed flexibly as required.

Technical training at the Audi Training Center has recently been taken to the next level with the introduction of a virtual reality training area, where technicians can do several exercises to learn about battery maintenance and care. The Audi Middle East Training Centre in Dubai Airport Free Zone is one of the first in the world to host virtual reality training during 2019. In addition to technical training, the Centre will facilitate management and product training courses for over 600 delegates in the region per year.

The Audi Middle East Training Centre, located near to Dubai Airport Terminal 2, has been established since 2006. A team of qualified trainers are responsible for training dealer staff in the region every year. Audi sales staff and technicians participate in a variety of practical courses during the year that take place at their dealerships, in Germany at the company headquarters in Ingolstadt and at the Audi Training Centre in DAFZA.

The Audi Group, with its brands Audi, Ducati and Lamborghini, is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the premium segment. It is present in more than 100 markets worldwide and produces at 16 locations in twelve countries.

“We want to provide our service partners with the best possible support during the transformation towards electric mobility, while digitally aligning our training offering,” says Carsten Bender, Managing Director, Audi Middle East. “This is why Audi have been working intensively on innovative training concepts for the required qualification profiles. The targeted use of virtual reality is an important building block in this process.”

Key takeaways

Strategy

• Audi training is available to partners worldwide in a cloud-based knowledge database.
• Augmented reality, the fusion of the real and virtual worlds, is also in preparation.
• Audi Middle East is developing an application for car body experts that allows them to experience the Audi e-tron as a 3D model.

Execution

• Virtual technology allows learning of sensitive technologies such as the high-voltage battery.
• A multi-user approach is possible with this new form of virtual reality training.
• Teachers and students are able to meet together in a virtual space, even if they are physically in different locations.
• Animations show the service technicians the individual repair steps in detail.