Volvo to Use Microsoft HoloLens in Showrooms

Volvo could be putting their vehicles on display in an entirely different way, using Microsoft’s hologram technology to create a virtual reality showroom. The two companies have collaborated to use Microsoft Corporation's HoloLens to give potential buyers the most unique view at a new car. The lenses have not been released yet, but the idea of a virtual world of car buying opens up an interesting new way of shopping for cars. A demonstration of the product was conducted at Microsoft’s global headquarters in Redmond, WA, for curious users.

With just a swipe of a finger, an observer can get a 3D sync transmitted look of the model of their choosing. They can go through the features and options of the car with a simple, user-friendly interface. The virtual car can be deconstructed down to its skeleton, giving the customer a look at the vehicle that most have never seen before.

“HoloLens offers the freedom to create a bespoke experience which customers can steer themselves. Imagine using mixed reality to choose the type of car you want – to explore the colors, rims, or get a better understanding of the features, services and options available,”

said Björn Annwall, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Service at Volvo Cars.

If this product were to take off, it could change car-buying forever. The traditional method of having a sales rep tour you around the car might be a thing of the past. Dealerships could be minimized to booths at a shopping mall if all you needed was a pair of video glasses to see everything you needed.

There’s no date set in stone for when the virtual reality goggles will be available at dealerships. Volvo and Microsoft have both said to keep an ear out for any future announcements regarding the subject. Possible future projects for the two companies include autonomous driving technologies and the utilization of data generated from connected cars to create new services.

1. david smith
2. Posted on November 26, 2015
microsoft products