5 High-tech automotive innovations changing the industry

Technology waits for no one, and that’s as true for auto mechanics as for those in other industries. Consider how these automotive innovations are changing the profession, and what other groundbreaking inventions we might expect in the future.

• Augmented reality: The same technology used for Pokemon Go is slated to help mechanics visualize auto repair diagnoses by generating a live view of the vehicle itself.  This live feed is enhanced with computer-generated sensory input – sound, video, graphics and/or GPS data. The cloud-based apps under development connect wirelessly, coaching the mechanic through complex repairs. “You’re not going back and forth to the service manual, trying to understand the picture,” explains Tejas Desai on industry news site WardsAuto.com. “(It) can highlight exactly which bolt needs to be tightened.”
• 3-D printing: This market is expected to be worth $1.1 billion worldwide by 2019. Already, entire vehicles have been created through this methodology, and prognosticators point to the huge potential for 3-D-printed parts created on demand for customization and other end uses. Others predict the advent of a 3-D-printed chassis designed for safety that can simply be replaced after collisions.
• Predictive analytics: By optimizing data, analysts can find patterns and anomalies that can help auto producers anticipate widespread vehicle maintenance and repair needs, and customer behaviors and preferences, so service centers are better prepared to meet customer demand.
• Wi-Fi: Tech gurus are working on automotive innovations that could allow mechanics to remotely diagnose auto repair issues through Wi-Fi capabilities, so they can order parts and prepare for service before the customer brings the vehicle in.
• Aluminum parts: Once used only in high-end cars, this more affordable material is much lighter than steel, allows for better fuel efficiency and is highly recyclable. That said, it handles much differently than steel during the repair process, and mechanics must be trained accordingly.

If you’re as excited about the future of automotive technology as we are, explore hands-on training opportunities at Lincoln Tech and start working with today’s advanced cars, trucks and SUVs.  Getting into the industry today is a great way to ensure you’ll be on the front lines of tomorrow’s automotive innovations!