Newcastle vehicle manufacturer in new partnership to steer forward workforce

Luminous Group is trialling a new virtual simulation with BRP.

The Newcastle-based global vehicle manufacturer is aiming to create an alternative, new way of training its workforce. It is using Microsoft’s augmented reality programme, Dynamics 365, to provide a virtual training guide for BRP’s Mexico manufacturing facility.

BRP’s current scheme consists of up to 20 instructors delivering traditional training methods, however Luminous’ application will allow the company to access analytical data from Dynamics 365 that is said to track staff progress.

Luminous’ managing director, Ben Bennett, said: “With a global workforce behind them, it’s important that companies like BRP are incredibly efficient with their training and they’ve proved that they’re one step ahead of the game by embracing virtual reality.”

BRP also has sites in Canada, the United States, Finland and Austria; amassing a global workforce of over 12,500 people.

The company offers products including the likes of Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Alumacraft boats, and Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and aircraft.

A BRP’s RAM (Robotics Automation and MIS) department spokesperson added: “Our products are in high demand and we have higher expectations of the quality of them.

“With the help of Luminous Group, we can now continue to provide a new training method that bypasses outdated PowerPoint presentation and textbook studying. It’s a big step forward for us as this will allow us to improve efficiency dramatically.”