Exploring the Transformative Potential of Augmented Reality in Maintenance Shops
Good morning! As the sun rises on another bustling day in the world of logistics and operations, we are here to bring you the latest insights, trends, and news from the ever-evolving realm of supply chain management. ☕️
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Repair shops often find themselves juggling multiple tasks due to a shortage of employees, but a potential solution to their problems may be on the horizon. Augmented reality, a productivity-boosting technology, has the potential to lend a helping hand in repairing various trucks and cars. From providing step-by-step instructions on brake assembly to solving complex issues, this innovative technology promises to streamline the repair process and reduce wait times for customers. Leading dealerships like Ford have already embraced this transformative approach.
Check out today’s featured article from Fleet Maintenance to read about how augmented reality may shape the future of repair shops and its implications for dealerships. Will AR and AI become widespread tools in the industry, taking over traditional work processes? Is this the new normal we can expect?
Featured Article:
Augmented reality in maintenance shops | Fleet Maintenance
“Augmented and assisted-reality solutions are now available, but are these high-tech tools boosting shop productivity?”
Leadership & Law ⚖️
Former Audi CEO Admits Guilt in Legal Proceedings
Winterkorn was embroiled in a significant scandal famously known as the "Volkswagen emissions scandal" or "Dieselgate." In September 2015, it was revealed that Volkswagen had installed software in their diesel vehicles to deceive emissions tests, giving the false impression of meeting regulatory standards while emitting higher levels of pollutants. The scandal had far-reaching consequences, severely impacting Volkswagen's reputation and finances. Now, after 8 years, a court hearing has finally taken place, following a lengthy 3-year trial in Germany where three other managers agreed to a plea deal.
During the period of emissions cheating, Martin Winterkorn held the position of CEO at Volkswagen. Initially, he denied any knowledge of the manipulation, but eventually resigned in September 2015, assuming responsibility for the scandal. Winterkorn faced numerous investigations and legal actions related to his involvement in the scandal. Recently, Winterkorn pleaded guilty, resulting in probation and a $1.2 million fine.
Robotics & Network Association 🤖
C.R. England and Torc Robotics Join Forces for Collaborative Partnership
Torc Robotics, a leading autonomous vehicle technology company based in Blacksburg, Virginia, USA, specializes in the development of self-driving software and systems for a wide range of applications. Their expertise extends to commercial vehicles, consumer vehicles, and defense vehicles, with a strong focus on safety. Torc Robotics has earned recognition through participation in various autonomous vehicle challenges and competitions, successfully testing and demonstrating their technology in diverse real-world environments, including urban and highway scenarios.
In 2019, Torc Robotics made headlines when it was acquired by Daimler Trucks, a division of Daimler AG. This strategic acquisition facilitated a close collaboration between Torc Robotics and Daimler, enabling the further advancement and seamless integration of autonomous driving technology into Daimler's commercial truck lineup. Building on this partnership, C.R. England has now joined forces with Torc Robotics and Daimler to embark on an autonomous pilot project for refrigerated freight transport.
Let’s Get Global 🌎
👗 Calling for Reform in the Apparel Manufacturing Industry. In Bangladesh, a devastating collapse in 2013 claimed the lives of over 1,100 people, marking the start of a decade-long struggle for worker rights. As a result, numerous companies ceased ordering from countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh, impacting millions of already underpaid workers and exacerbating the precarious situation they faced.
🐥 Avian Influenza Outbreak Affects Leading Chicken Exporting Nation. Brazil, the world's top chicken exporter, is facing its first-ever outbreak of bird flu. In response, the country has declared a state of emergency to enhance coordination among poultry producers and the veterinary service. This situation raises concerns about potential price increases for eggs in the future.
👟 NIKE and Boeing Grapple with Mounting Pressure in Relation to China. Amid escalating tensions between China and the United States, numerous major companies are grappling with concerns regarding their China-linked supply chains. Simultaneously, tensions are arising between investors and the US government. In response to these mounting challenges, many companies are now disclosing in their financial filings how the frictions between the countries are posing significant business risks.
iLevel With You 🏡
More topics for the average American household to consider…
🔋 Daimler Unveils Electric Truck Brand in the United States. Daimler AG, a renowned German multinational automotive corporation, excels in manufacturing luxury vehicles, commercial vehicles, and automotive components. With its headquarters based in Stuttgart, Germany, Daimler stands as one of the foremost automotive manufacturers globally. The company boasts an impressive portfolio of prestigious brands, encompassing Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, Smart, Freightliner, Western Star, Fuso, and more.
⛽️ Decline in Diesel Prices Persists. Diesel prices have reached a level comparable to last year's January rates, and forecasts indicate a potential decrease of nearly $2 compared to the previous summer. This news is truly remarkable, offering positive implications for the economy and providing transportation companies with significant cost savings.
💰 Moderation Seen in Driver Pay Rates. The president of Werner Enterprises has noted that although driver pay experienced significant increases over the past couple of years, the pace has now slowed down, entering a phase of moderation. During the latest quarter, driver pay-per-mile saw a 6% rise, which is considerably lower than the impressive 22% increase observed in 2021.
Get Smart 🧠
Ramp up that brain power for these advanced topics…
📉 Supply Chain Volatility Declines. According to the GEP index, the global supply chain is currently experiencing underutilization for the first time since June 2020. In the previous month, the index dropped significantly to -0.04, a substantial decrease from the previous month's value of 0.32. This decline can be attributed largely to companies reducing their inventory levels and safety stocks.
💊 Adapting the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain. Given the substantial volumes and intricate data associated with fraud and theft, the pharmaceutical supply chain necessitates adaptation to meet the demands of the modern world. Shockingly, approximately $83 billion worth of counterfeit drugs are sold each year, and an estimated 10% of medical products in low to middle-income countries are counterfeit.
🇺🇸 Gradual Rise in US Imports. In April of this year, imports surged by nearly 27%, indicating a steady progression toward pre-COVID levels. After experiencing a decline since August 2022, imports have now begun to rebound after a year-long period. The hope is for this upward trend to persist and even surpass the import levels witnessed in 2020 prior to the pandemic.
The Workday Dash is an aggregation of articles regarding the transportation logistics, trucking, and supply chain industries for November 27, 2024, from iLevel Logistics Inc.