It’s not science fiction anymore. Car owners may soon have their vehicles serviced with the help of augmented reality, and they may explore a virtual world while charging their electric vehicles. And get ready for an otherworldly shopping experience.
The metaverse—or virtual reality—is reshaping how automakers serve their customers, and it could increasingly affect how motorists experience their vehicles, too. The use cases were on display last week at the CES consumer electronics trade show in Las Vegas, where several automakers shared visions of their technology futures.
Stellantis NV’s Fiat said it will bring its virtual showroom with the help of Microsoft Corp. and Touchcast Inc. to North America when it begins selling the 500e city car here again next year. The all-electric Ram 1500 Revolution concept promoted a phone app with a digital measuring tool to help users determine how to fit equipment or other objects in the truck.