Why will Virtual Reality revolutionize the automobile?

As Valeo’s advanced driver assistance (ADAS) technologies make vehicles more and more autonomous, we are also reinventing the interior experience. Beyond making mobility safer and cleaner, Valeo is exploring how to make life on board the vehicle more fun and enjoyable, particularly through virtual reality applications.

It’s clear today that immersive technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality or mixed reality play will play an increasingly important role in our lives and especially in the automotive industry.

What is XR?

Extended Reality (XR) is a mixture of several technologies – virtual, augmented and mixed. These technologies use different techniques to create immersive experiences that can be used for various applications such as entertainment, education, training, and even therapy.

Virtual reality (VR) creates a completely artificial environment that can be interacted with using specialized equipment such as VR masks and handheld controllers. Augmented reality (AR), on the other hand, overlays digital content onto the real world. Mixed reality (MR) is a combination of both VR and AR, where digital content is overlaid onto the real world but is also interactive and can respond to real-world input.

What are XR applications in the automotive industry?

There are several applications for virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality in the automotive industry. For example, training for engineers, operators or even car repair shops. These technologies make presentations and learning modules more immersive, more understandable, and more enjoyable. XR is also going to change how you experience your journey in the car.

The most reliable VR systems on the market today use sensors and cameras. These systems allow for a more immersive experience, and also eliminate or reduce motion sickness. 

Valeo is the world leader in automotive sensors and cameras. The primary use of the tech company’s broad portfolio of sensors is to make cars safer and more autonomous. A few examples of Valeo’s work in this field are the Voyage XR and Panorama XR projects.

Valeo is also using its technology and expertise – which includes a team with skills in video-gaming and real-time 3D – to create tailor-made experiences for the future of mobility. One day, you will be able to sit back and relax while your electric vehicle recharges, or enjoy the ride while the fully-autonomous car drives itself. Maybe you choose to watch a film in a virtual recreation of your living room, or join an immersive video call. It’s all thanks to our innovative ADAS sensors and cameras, as well as Valeo’s algorithms and AI. 

Virtual reality is just one way Valeo is completely reinventing the interior experience.