BMW Group has added new features to it BMW M Mixed Reality driving experience. The German car and motorcycle manufacturer’s VR/MR technology connects driver, vehicle, and virtual worlds in a ‘unique’ 3D interaction in which the vehicle becomes a controller.
New features include a multiplayer approach, a new world, individualised worlds for partners and events, and a single player offer.
BMW announced the updated experience in a press release: “The BMW Group is expanding its revolutionary driving experience with BMW M Mixed Reality, which breaks down the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds through state-of-the-art VR/MR technologies.
“With BMW M Mixed Reality, fans and first movers can immerse themselves in a digital world while physically sitting at the wheel of a BMW M vehicle and controlling it.”
BMW M Mixed Reality
BMW has incorporated what it describes as a ‘first-ever’ multisensory multiplayer approach.
Two drivers are now able to go head-to-head in multiplayer mode, while spectators can use personalised avatars to virtually watch the race from the BMW M Mixed Reality Bridge. This can also involve being virtually connected via the Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro, and other devices.
BMW M Mixed Reality has been available in single player since autumn 2023.
Improvements to the virtual world included the new Mixed Reality Rooftop Circuit, in which drivers had to avoid virtual obstacles and gather BMW M coins.
The in-car technology comprises accurate GPS positioning, with every acceleration, turn of the steering wheel and braking manoeuvre is mirrored in the virtual world due to sensor technology.
The VR headset can be connected to the vehicle to sync data and movements in real time. In fact, the equipment is capable of being used in a range of BMW M models, such as the BMW M2, BMW M4, and BMW i5 M60.
In the future, BMW plans to make drifting possible, although it has not yet established a date for the release of this experience.
BMW says that ‘further applications’ in vehicle development and training are being researched, such as adding a Professional Track Trainer to display the ideal line and breaking points.
MINI Mixed Reality
The BMW-owned MINI cars manufacturer announced recently that it will be releasing a mixed reality virtual driving experience as well.
Maike Roth, MINI Experiential Marketing Specialist, took to LinkedIn over the summer to reveal the news: “After months of anticipation, I’m thrilled to unveil our secret project that’s been brewing behind the scenes!
“Inspired by the groundbreaking technology developed by BMW M we’ve embarked on a journey beyond M-Town into a realm of colour, creativity, and innovation.
“Introducing our latest endeavour: an immersive experience that takes you on a drive through the minds of our designers as they crafted the future of the New MINI Family.
“Picture this: sitting behind the wheel of the first ever all-electric MINI Aceman, only revealed a few weeks ago in Beijing, you’ll be transported into a world where design meets imagination, where every curve, colour, and detail comes to life before your eyes.”
BMW first unveiled it mixed reality driving experience at the Web Summit in Lisbon in November 2022.
Earlier that year, GlobalData, released a report stating that AR technologies could boost training times for automotive staff. It cited case studies with Daimler, who deployed AR solutions for product maintenance purposes to cut vehicle downtimes.
