EcoSkillVR: A VR Training Simulation for Lithium-ion Battery Pack Assembly for Four-Wheel Electric Vehicles

Authors

Yanga Rubushe, University of the Western Cape Immersive Zone, South Africa

Kaylyn Fritz, University of the Western Cape Immersive Zone, South Africa

Ayesha Boomgaard, University of the Western Cape, South Africa

Vuyo Mashiyane, SA Institute for Advanced Materials Chemistry, South Africa

Lutho Dyiki, SA Institute for Advanced Materials Chemistry, South Africa

Mehrdad Ghaziasgar, University of the Western Cape, South Africa

Published in

IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings

ISSN: 2576-8581

ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2

DOI: https://doi.org/10.67725/IST-Africa.2026.JMZO9132

Publisher

IST-Africa Institute and IIMC International Information Management Corporation Ltd

Published in Ireland

Abstract

Lithium-ion battery assembly is critical for South Africa's renewable energy and electric vehicle industries, yet it is hindered by limited skilled technicians, hazardous work environments, and inadequate training infrastructure. This paper presents EcoSkillVR, a proof-of-concept VR training simulation, designed to enhance skill acquisition in lithium-ion battery pack assembly within the South African Institute for Advanced Materials Chemistry (SAIAMC). Developed through a solo Agile Scrum methodology, participatory design approach, and cognitive and metacognitive principles over 6 months, the VR training tool supports effective and autonomous learning. Preliminary evaluations demonstrate its technical stability and positive reception from stakeholders. With the successful development of EcoSkillVR, future research includes a comprehensive user evaluation using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), while future enhancements to EcoSkillVR include the addition of audio narration, multi-language UI support, expanded contextual help, and error simulation.

Keywords

VR Simulation, Lithium-ion Batteries, Energy Storage, Skills Development

Cite this paper

Y. Rubushe, K. Fritz, A. Boomgaard, V. Mashiyane, L. Dyiki and M. Ghaziasgar (2026) "EcoSkillVR: A VR Training Simulation for Lithium-ion Battery Pack Assembly for Four-Wheel Electric Vehicles", IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings, Miriam Cunningham and Paul Cunningham (Eds), IST-Africa Institute and IIMC, 2026, ISSN: 2576-8581, ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2, https://doi.org/10.67725/IST-Africa.2026.JMZO9132

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