Augmented reality (AR) has evolved quite a bit over the past several years, and it seems to be on its way to becoming an integral part of our everyday lives. So, it’s easy to see how this new technology will revolutionize the future of dealer technicians, and can lead to some significant changes soon. Keep reading to learn more about how you can use AR to empower your tech staff and make them more efficient at their jobs.

Ford and AR

Ford is the frontrunner when it comes to using AR. In the case of issues that a technician can’t solve when working on a Ford Mustang Mach-E in 2022, they call Detroit-based engineers for assistance. Augmented reality (AR) technology has advanced to the point where an AR headset with a small screen and camera allows a technician to see the same information simultaneously for improved communication.

Working of Ford’s AR

Ford is expanding a program called “See What I See”, or SWIS. The idea is really simple: The techie wears a headset that contains a camera and microphone, and that’s sent to Ford’s Technical Assistance Center (TAC) in Dearborn, MI. At the same time, the engineer at TAC can send images and speak to the tech, showing them enhanced images to help track down and solve issues during a diagnosis.

Advantages of AR

One of the largest draws for Ford in both cases is reduced travel costs. Another huge draw is that Ford guarantees that a customer’s vehicle is fixed and back to them quickly—saving them from having to wait, potentially with only their vehicle to transport them to and from work or family gatherings. The quicker the technician completes the repair, the more satisfied the customer, leading to a higher CSI score for the dealership. Similarly, Mercedes-Benz is also looking at using Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 to train and repair dealership technicians.

Land Rover has recently launched its latest Defender model, the new 130. And owing to its last promise of a roomier and longer car, the latest offering from Land Rover can seat up to eight people! Starting at a price of $78,300, the Land Rover Defender 130 comes at a variety of prices. So if you’re looking for the perfect car to seat your entire family and then some, this might be the car for you. Read on to know more.

The Change

The second-generation Land Rover Defender comes in the same three-way lineup as before – 90, 110, and 130. Out of these, Land Rover Defender 130 is the largest and has a longer body than its predecessor, over 340 mm ahead of the rear wheels. This extension allows for the new seating arrangement and adds space for a three-seater third row. Not only that, if you want to transfer something big, you can just fold down the rear and middle-row seats to create a humongous 2516-liter load area. This area can hold almost 953 liters more than what the Defender 110 can hold. The 130 also comes with new interior trim options, like chrome air vents, oak veneer, and tan leather seats.

The Interiors

Despite the fact that this car is now able to accommodate eight people, the interiors of the Land Rover Defender do not disappoint. The middle and rear rows are slightly elevated, arranged in a stadium format so that one can see forward better. The automotive company has also ensured that the access to the rear seat is easy with a sliding and folding middle seat. The rear seat is big enough to accommodate three adults comfortably, and provides ample headspace padded armrests, heated seats, charging spots, and storage nooks. The car also has a second panoramic sunroof for light and air at the back.