What to Expect in the Future of Auto Collision Repair
Compliments of CarWise, here are some technological trends to look forward to in the near future that will improve the auto body collision repair industry.
Today’s drivers exist in a “brave new world” of technological advancements that are forever changing the way people travel - like AI-assisted GPS, accident-avoidance systems and self-parking cars. On the other hand, auto body shops and insurance companies are now embracing many innovative forms of technology to ensure a more seamless and cost-effective collision repair process. Within the next few years, the following emerging technologies will look to transform the collision repair industry for the better.
Car Accident VR Training
Auto body technicians and shop managers must stay constantly updated on new vehicle design innovations and repair techniques, and some of that ongoing training is now being done through virtual reality (VR). Companies developing VR training programs also point out that it’s a powerful recruiting tool for attracting young, tech-savvy people to the auto collision repair industry.
ADVANTAGES OF VR TRAINING INCLUDE:
More cost-effective than traditional training programs requiring overnight travel
Can be done from anywhere, anytime via remote instructors
Hands-on training leads to higher information-retention rates for technicians
More interesting for young people than other training methods
When first introduced, VR training hardware and headset packages cost over $5,000. Today, the price has dropped almost ten fold.
Vehicle Connectivity
As 5G networks roll out nationwide it will enhance the diagnostic capabilities of body shops because 5G is faster and more responsive than 4G - allowing messages to be sent and received at lightning speed. Smartphone telematic diagnostic applications are replacing plug-in devices to help auto insurers better understand driver accident and avoidance behaviors. Several insurance companies have already launched vehicle connectivity smartphone apps that continuously monitor driver actions so that those who drive more safely can receive discounts.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Car Testing
If you use Alexa to turn on your TV, ask Siri for advice or perform Google searches, all are examples of AI technology. In the collision repair industry, artificial intelligence is behind the telematic monitoring of drivers by insurance companies. It’s also now being used by body shops and insurers for applications like photo estimates to improve accuracy and speed up the transfer of repair-related info.
Electrification For Electric Vehicles
Full-electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity, which is fueling a collision repair industry trend known as “electrification”. That’s because working on electric vehicles takes special safety equipment and precautions that technicians must be trained on. As auto manufacturers continue to improve the appearance, range and performance of these vehicles to attract new buyers, body shops will also be forced to adapt if they want to remain in business.
A Cars Blockchain
Newer blockchain technologies are also starting to reshape the collision repair industry, most notably in the parts supply department. A blockchain is essentially an ever-expanding list of permanent data records, or “blocks”, linked together using cryptography- a secure form of online communication with built-in privacy protections to block hacking. Blockchain has historically been used for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, but today it’s available to body shops so they can order parts from vendors and manufacturers without exposing sensitive customer information.
In addition, there are now blockchain pilot programs looking at ways to capture and secure in one place all accident records, including the first notice of loss (FNOL), the estimate, repair order and parts order. That way, the information can only be accessed by members of the blockchain itself, like the repair shop employees, insurance company and parts suppliers.
Find Collision Repair Shops Here that Embrace Change
When your prized vehicle has been involved in a fender bender, it can be intimidating to find the right auto body or glass repair shop. Golden Hammer Collision Center is I-CAR and ASE certified, which means we invest in the training programs, high-tech equipment and emerging technologies necessary to restore your ride like new again promptly and reliably.