A new Automotive Innovation Hub has been launched in South Australia to showcase cutting-edge R&D technology in the service and repair sector.

The Innovation Hub will focus on delivering industry 4.0 auto skills through new training programs and provides aspace for the industry to display latest innovations.

The Motor Trade Association of South Australia (MTA) has developed the new hub in partnership with Tradiebot Industries, a leader in auto repair innovation and industry training.

The Hub will be based at the MTA’s Training and Employment Centre at Royal Park in Adelaide’s western suburbs.

Tradiebot Industries has contributed a number of new technologies and training solutions that showcase advances in productivity, efficiency and developments within the automotive service and repair sector.

These new technologies include the practical use of virtual and augmented reality and 3D printing.

The Hub will offer these new innovations and services to MTA members, local community groups and government organisations.

Important to develop a skilled automotive workforce

They will also be showcased to schools to stimulate interest for trades in the automotive industry.

The Hub will allow students to see, touch and try new technology tools and acquire new skills required from the future automotive workforce.

The Minister for Innovation and Skills David Pisoni said the new hub demonstrates how important it is for vocational education and training to be up to date with the latest in modern technology.

“The skills required for jobs across various sectors are increasingly being developed with the use of new technology and training methods, and it’s important that we continue to develop a skilled workforce in the automotive industry,” he said.

Mr Pisoni said South Australia must continue to grow the number of apprentices and trainees in the state by working with industry to help boost the economy, build productive infrastructure, grow exports and create long-term career pathways.

MTA CEO, Paul Unerkov said: “We are excited to bring the Automotive Innovation Hub to life and to work with such a forward thinking and Australian company as Tradiebot to deliver these new tools and technologies to the automotive service and repair sector in South Australia.

“This innovation hub will be the core of delivering new skills, training and advancing technologies to our current and future workforce.

“The Automotive Innovation Hub will create new opportunities for apprenticeship training, allowing those in our training programs to experience a new way of learning through augmented and virtual reality.”

At the launch, Tradiebot Industries demonstrated a number of their new technologies and training solutions including a virtual reality spray painting simulator and newly released 3D printed parts used for car repairs.

Also on display were augmented reality smart tools that allow auto technicians to access live repair and service information on vehicles with a touch of a button on their mobile phone or smart devices.

A perfect partnership

“This is a perfect partnership and location to launch such a venture and kick start the local automotive service, repair and digital manufacturing industry in SA,” said Mario Dimovski, CEO of Tradiebot Industries.

“Tradiebot is an industry leader in automotive innovation and we aim to transfer these skills and technologies through this centre to the local industry and students that will make up the future of our workforce.

“The MTA has set the trend and is leading the way in Australia tackling ongoing issues and thinking about the future of the industry.”

Mr Dimovski said Tradiebot has some exciting plans for the centre and the state going forward.

“We have already started talks with potential universities, industry and Government partners to conduct future R&D activities in the hub,” he said.

Also, talks are being held with potential collaborative partners from local automotive manufacturers (OEMs), automotive businesses, suppliers, government bodies and industry associations who can add value to the Hub and its objectives.