Volvo Partners with Microsoft on Virtual Reality Technology

Volvo Car Corp. and Microsoft Corp. are working together on a virtual reality system that would allow car buyers to view full-size vehicles and various options via holograms using Microsoft’s HoloLens wearable computer. Other potential applications include virtual test drives and experiencing autonomous vehicle technologies, according to the partners.

The companies demonstrated the technology on Friday at Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Calif. Microsoft announced the HoloLens platform in January and plans to begin selling $3,000 developer kits early next year. It also is developing applications for NASA, medical facilities, structural engineers and other organizations.  

The Volvo application would allow users to view a 3-D holographic image of a car that they could walk around and quickly change exterior and interior features. The system also could be used to overlay different colors on an actual vehicle in a dealer’s showroom, or to view cross-sections of different features—including the engine and transmission.

Other potential applications include using a HoloLens headset to take a virtual test drive while sitting in a vehicle at a dealership. This also would allow users to safely experience new features and advanced technologies, including automated steering and braking, the partners note.

Volvo also is exploring other ways to collaborate with Microsoft. This could include utilizing data generated from connected cars to create new services, using predictive analytics to improve safety and enhancing autonomous driving features through advanced machine learning systems.