Foto: Meyle+Müller GmbH+Co. KG, medialesson GmbH, Porsche
Porsche
is now using virtual reality (VR) technology and Microsoft’s
HoloLens
to design its cars – for financial reasons too, given virtual 3D models are quicker and easier to create and modify. The automakers have joined forces here with computer-generated imagery (CGI) experts from
Meyle+Müller
and mixed-reality developers from
medialesson
. Consequently, several designers can project holographic objects onto a given car simultaneously. They can use voice commands or gestures to record driving or engine noises or to make automotive components behind the chassis visible: This ‘X-ray vision’ helps check the technical viability of designs.
All in all, the entire automotive sector is currently moving heavily into virtual worlds:
Ford
is also designing cars in AR, while VW presented its
Virtual Engineering Lab
, which also focuses on AR product development, at the Hanover Fair 2017. Similar projects are underway at
Volvo
, and at Mercedes, the upcoming A-Class is even going to integrate
AR functions into its navigation system
. And, naturally, practically all manufacturers use VR worlds for marketing, as recently
clearly demonstrated
at the Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS). In Munich, the HoloLens is being used to enable virtual test drives, for example, with the
BMW X2 Holo Experience
, and, thanks to
GoInStore
, the
Porsche Museum
in Stuttgart is also already HoloLens-ready and allowing visitors to take a
virtual tour
with additional information.