The automotive industry is at the precipice of a paradigm shift. The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies, and the rise of connected cars is drastically changing the landscape. As these transformative technologies become mainstream, the complexity of efficiently manufacturing vehicles and after-sales segments of the automotive industry is also evolving to accommodate these innovations.

Among the trailblazers of this transformation is Praxworxs, a brand synonymous with technological innovation, efficiency, and business success. Through their partnership with Atheer, they set new standards for delivering after-sales services.

Evolution of Aftersales Services

The last few decades have witnessed a dramatic change in the automotive industry. Innovations in powertrain technology have led industry giants like Volkswagen to set ambitious goals for the production of electric vehicles.

Similarly, the rise of connected cars has revolutionised how we interact with our vehicles. With most modern cars assuming drivers are connected, features like GPS maps, turn-by-turn directions, and technology support such as Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto have become standard.

These changes have had a profound impact on the aftersales segment. For instance, the shift to electric vehicles necessitates overhauling service bays, supply chains, and equipment. Dealerships are also investing in new training and processes to handle the unique demands of EVs.

Challenges of Technological Advancements

While these advancements bring numerous benefits, they also present several challenges for the aftersales segment. For instance, the increasing complexity of vehicles has led to a need for more skilled technicians.

Moreover, the emergence of new business models, the need to build brand loyalty in a competitive market, and changing dealer needs to pose additional challenges. Dealerships are also grappling with finding new routes to profitability in an environment where new vehicles are sometimes in short supply.

The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) in Aftersales Services

Several automotive brands are leveraging the power of Augmented Reality (AR) to overcome these challenges. AR has the potential to revolutionise aftersales services by enhancing communication and collaboration, improving customer experience, and boosting dealer profitability. 

Volkswagen Group UK, for instance, has adopted AR Remote Assistance to support servicing electric vehicles. Using the Atheer platform, Volkswagen technicians can receive real-time guidance from remote experts, saving time and money and improving overall service quality.

Similarly, Porsche USA's Tech Live Look program, powered by Atheer, allows technicians to connect with remote experts for real-time assistance. The program has helped Porsche improve efficiency and enhance customer service.

Augmented Reality: A Key Driver of Digital Transformation

The adoption of AR in aftersales services is a prime example of how digital transformation reshapes industries. By leveraging AR, businesses can improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and create new business opportunities.

Praxworxs, committed to technological innovation and efficiency, is at the forefront of this digital transformation. Through their partnership with Atheer, they are helping businesses harness the power of AR to stay competitive in the evolving automotive industry.

Embracing the Future: How AR Remote Assistance is Revolutionising the Automotive Industry

The automotive industry is undergoing a period of rapid and transformative change. With the emergence of electric vehicles and ever-increasing technological advances, the need for efficient and effective after-sales service has never been greater. Renowned automotive giants Volkswagen Group UK and Porsche USA have exemplified this new direction by proactively adopting AR Remote Assistance, powered by Atheer's innovative technology, to optimise their after-sales operations and enhance customer service experience.  

The Electric Vehicle Commitment

In a pioneering drive towards sustainable mobility, Volkswagen Group, globally recognised for its innovative prowess, announced 2019 its ambitious plans to launch nearly 70 new electric vehicle models within the next decade. This production forecast translates into an impressive projection of 22 million electric vehicles, signifying Volkswagen's unwavering commitment to the environment and the Paris Agreement on climate protection. [Reference 1]

A Paradigm Shift in After-Sales Operations

In anticipation of the increasing demand for electric vehicles, Volkswagen Group UK is revolutionising its after-sales service operations. The company is overhauling the layout of its service bays, redesigning supply chains, and implementing new equipment - a paradigm shift to efficiently handle the unique demands of electric vehicles, such as charging systems and battery diagnostics. [Reference 2]

AR Remote Assistance Revolution

To enhance efficiency and productivity in the servicing of electric vehicles, Volkswagen Group UK has adopted innovative AR Remote Assistance technology powered by Atheer. This technology enables Volkswagen technicians to receive real-time guidance from remote experts, eliminating the need for experts to travel to individual Retailers. [Reference 3]

Impact on After-Sales Operations

The application of this technology signifies a generational change within the automotive industry. It necessitates a complete transformation in after-sales operations. Volkswagen Group UK is accommodating this change by investing in new equipment, procedures, and skills training for its experts and technicians. [Reference 4]

What is Volkswagen Remote Expert Live Support (RELS)?

The Remote Expert Live Support (RELS) system, powered by Atheer, forms a crucial part of Volkswagen Group UK's strategy to enhance the efficiency of aftersales operations. This system connects retailer technicians to Volkswagen Group UK Technical Support experts, providing instant access to critical information, technical documents, and just-in-time training. [Reference 5]

The RELS system utilises the Atheer Augmented Reality (AR) platform and RealWear head-mounted wearable device, providing technicians with a streamlined workflow that saves time, improves productivity, and enhances customer satisfaction.

What is Porsche Tech Live Look? 

Porsche USA, a leader in luxury car manufacturing, has also embraced the power of AR technology to enhance its service operations. Through their Tech Live Look program, Porsche has empowered their technicians with remote assistance capabilities, allowing them to resolve issues faster and provide unparalleled customer service.

The Tech Live Look program, powered by Atheer, has revolutionised communication and collaboration in service operations. Technicians wearing AR glasses can stream live video of the problem area to the remote support worker, who can provide real-time guidance.

The Benefits of AR in Service Operations

Adopting AR in service operations has improved efficiency and enhanced overall customer experience. Faster issue resolution and improved service quality mean customers can return to the road with minimal disruption.

Impact on Dealer Profitability

This commitment to customer satisfaction has positioned both Volkswagen and Porsche as industry leaders, with a growing customer base and increased dealer profitability.

Navigating an Unprecedented Period of Change

The automotive industry has experienced more innovation in the last two decades than in the previous 50 years. With the rise of electric vehicles and connected cars, the industry is gearing up for an all-in approach to electric vehicles.

A Case for Change

The automotive industry faces a new reality, marked by five key trends: Connected cars, Autonomous cars, Shared cars, Electric cars, and Sustainable cars. These trends are transforming the automotive industry, requiring new business models, skills, and technologies.

Addressing Skills Shortages 

The adoption of AR technology can help address the ongoing shortage of skilled technicians in the automotive industry. This technology enables technicians to access the information they need in real-time, improving their productivity and efficiency.

Adapting to New Business Models

AR technology also supports the emergence of new business models in the automotive industry. With vehicles now more intelligent and connected, remote service agents can diagnose issues before they arrive, improving service times and customer satisfaction.

Atheer Field Service Software: Frontline Connected Worker

The Atheer Front Line Worker Platform equips aftersales teams with the tools to improve productivity, safety, and efficiency. It enables technicians to improve first-time fix rates, reduce service resolution times, improve customer satisfaction, enhance dealer profitability, and speed up warranty claim adjudication.

Impact of Atheer on the Automotive Industry

Through its partnership with Volkswagen Group UK and Porsche USA, Atheer's technology is significantly impacting the automotive industry. The Atheer Front Line Worker Platform empowers automotive aftersales teams to tackle pressing industry challenges and enhance operations.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, adopting AR Remote Assistance is a game-changer. By harnessing the power of Atheer's technology, industry leaders like Volkswagen Group UK and Porsche USA are setting new standards in after-sales service operations, enhancing efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction. As we move forward, it's clear that the future of the automotive industry lies in the innovative use of technology to drive performance, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Praxworxs: A Pioneer in Technological Innovation

As a forward-thinking expert in business solutions, Praxworxs recognises the potential of AR in transforming aftersales services. Through their partnership with Atheer, they are helping businesses leverage AR to enhance their aftersales operations.

Praxworxs' solutions empower technicians with instant access to critical information, technical documents, and just-in-time training. By streamlining workflows and improving productivity, Praxworxs solutions are helping businesses achieve success and stay competitive.

Praxworxs & Atheer Partnership: A Game Changer in Aftersales Service

The Praxworxs-Atheer partnership combines Praxworxs' industry expertise and Atheer's cutting-edge AR platform. Together, they offer an end-to-end solution that addresses the challenges of the modern automotive aftersales segment.

Their solution allows technicians to connect with remote experts for real-time assistance, reducing service resolution times. It also improves first-time fix rates, enhancing customer satisfaction and dealer profitability.

References 

1. Volkswagen Newsroom. (n.d.). Volkswagen is fully committed to the Paris climate targets. [Online] Available at: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/stories/volkswagen-is-fully-committed-to-the-paris-climate-targets-5549

2. Automotive World. (n.d.). Volkswagen Group UK deploys RealWear and Atheer in UK service centres. [Online] Available at: https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/volkswagen-group-uk-deploys-realwear-and-atheer-in-uk-service-centres/

3. Atheer. (n.d.). Atheer Air. [Online] Available at: https://www.atheerair.com/

4. Fleet Owner. (n.d.). VW deploys AR tech for van maintenance in the UK. [Online] Available at: https://www.fleetowner.com/equipment/article/21125732/vw-deploys-ar-tech-for-van-maintenance-in-uk

5. RealWear. (n.d.). Volkswagen boosts repair efficiency by 93% with RealWear and Atheer. [Online] Available at: https://www.realwear.com/blog/volkswagen-boosts-repair-efficiency-by-93-with-realwear-and-atheer/

About Praxworxs

Praxworxs, a leading technology solutions provider, stands at the forefront of digital transformation, empowering a connected workforce for global organisations. We aim to elevate organisational productivity, improve learning outcomes, and drive service performance and workforce productivity. Our accomplished team of industry leaders remain dedicated to optimisation, innovation, and transformation. Established with a commitment to improving business operations, Praxworxs has carved a unique niche for itself in the world of technology. As a trusted Atheer Global Partner, we maintain, foster, and incorporate the highest technological innovation and business practices standards into our work.

About Atheer

Atheer Field Service Management software helps manufacturers transform service into a high-quality, real-time, remote-first customer experience. We increase remote resolution in the call centre with AR Remote Assistance, improve technician first-time-fix-rates with sophisticated knowledge delivery, and enhance customer and partner experience with self-service process digitisation on a single, unified platform. Our customers gain unprecedented visibility into actual work execution across their extended service network, allowing them to optimise their business rapidly.