BMW is performing experimental tests in virtually enhanced driving that may one day be an option on autonomous vehicles.
Being performed on private test tracks far from public roads and prying eyes, the âMixed Realityâ technology is the subject of trials on the mini, in which BMW Group wants to merge the virtual and real worlds. Using the in-car headset, drivers can immerse themselves in a unique journey through different driving scenarios through the power of virtual reality all whilst behind the wheel of the Mini in the real world.
BMW says that the world that can be seen through the VR headset can be a vibrant virtual Mini VR World, which can be driven through while still being able to navigate through the actual environment via camera streams, which are linked to the virtual reality device. The seamless integration of the physical and digital realms offers a new dimension to the driving experience, according to the company.
Behind the magic of Mini Mixed Reality lies a sophisticated system comprising a high-end PC running a self-designed Mini VR World streaming to the headset. Headset tracking, acceleration, sound and vehicle interface devices work in harmony to create the whole mixed virtual and actual experience.
The purpose behind this flurry of creativity is to pave the way for future advancements in the sphere of in-car entertainment and driver assistance systems. At the moment, BMW is very clear that the technology is being used for test and validation purposes, including user studies for autonomous driving.
However, the potential for the technology extends to driver training and monitoring applications as well as driver assist systems for hazard awareness, collision avoidance and navigation. It could also be used for parking assistance, for passenger entertainment and even for driver engagement during autonomous control. BMW hasnât defined any of the goals that itâs heading for, preferring instead to experiment with the technology and test it whilst keeping an open approach to how such devices might be developed and used in the future.
For now, the VR equipped Mini is continuing to be used on a closed test track with the driver plunged into a virtual world.
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