Stellantis Expands Virtual Forklift Training in Michigan

The automaker is deploying virtual reality technology to enhance operator safety and training efficiency across its facilities.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Manufacturing

Isometric editorial illustration of a forklift and abstracted modular crates in a clean, professional manufacturing environment. — Stellantis has expanded its virtual reality forklift training program to its National Training Center in Warren, Michigan, to improve operator safety. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Since October 2025, Stellantis has utilized a virtual reality forklift simulator at its Sterling Heights Stamping Facility to track driver performance and safety metrics. The program was recently bolstered by the installation of two additional units at the National Training Center in Warren.

Why it matters

The technology aims to eliminate forklift-related injuries while streamlining the training process for employees. By utilizing virtual modules, the company provides a controlled environment for operators to master navigation and pedestrian awareness.

Stellantis requires employees to complete recurring forklift training every 3 years. The company recently expanded its capacity by installing 2 additional simulator units at the National Training Center in Warren.

The players

Stellantis

Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the PSA Group.

The details

The software guides operators with virtual yellow arrows during crate transport and includes obstacle courses designed to simulate real-world reactions to pedestrians. Acquired following a Factory Booster Day pitch event, the system offers a standardized method for assessing operator proficiency.

The VR forklift simulator launched at the Sterling Heights Stamping Facility in October 2025.
Two simulator units were installed at the National Training Center in Warren during the week of October 19, 2026.
A media demonstration of the virtual reality simulator took place on October 22, 2026.

Market Landscape

The adoption of the forklift simulator follows the Factory Booster Day pitch event, which serves as a pipeline for new manufacturing technologies at Stellantis. This initiative reflects a broader industry shift toward using integrated digital training to optimize labor efficiency and worker safety.

Employees at the Sterling Heights and Warren facilities will encounter these virtual training modules during their mandatory triennial certification. The system ensures a consistent safety standard for all operators regardless of their prior experience levels.

The takeaway

Virtual reality tools provide a scalable way to reduce workplace accidents by simulating hazardous conditions safely. Organizations can implement similar technology to improve training throughput while maintaining high safety standards for equipment operators.