Nissan Motor Co. has recently delved into the world of immersive experiences by unveiling their latest project, the ‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’. This innovative initiative, launched on March 7th, marks Nissan’s 90th-anniversary celebration, emphasizing their enduring commitment to their rich heritage and the paramount significance of safety on the road.
The inaugural exhibition of ‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’ spotlights the Silvia Q S13, a beloved drift car from Nissan’s collection. This virtual showcase not only allows users to explore the vehicle in great detail but also sheds light on the impact of pedestrian clothing colors on a driver’s perception. By bringing attention to this crucial factor, Nissan emphasizes the importance of vigilance and awareness while driving, even within a virtual environment.
Transporting users into a virtual realm, the second exhibition of ‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’ unveils the iconic Skyline 2000GTX-E. This particular model holds a special place in Nissan’s history, renowned for its role in tuning culture and appearances in popular video games and movies like the Gran Turismo series and Fast and Furious franchise. Alongside exploring the car, users can engage in a mini-game that highlights the dangers of multitasking while driving and advocates for safe driving practices.
Bringing users back in time to the vibrant 1950s-1960s era, the third exhibition of ‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’ immerses them in an American diner and drive-in theater setting. This nostalgic environment provides users with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with steering wheel controls, underscoring the importance of understanding and effectively handling their vehicle’s mechanisms.
The creation of this metaverse experience signifies a collaboration between Nissan and Japanese university researchers, showcasing the fusion of virtual technology with research. This partnership not only lends credibility to the project but also underscores Nissan’s commitment to continuous innovation and pushing boundaries within the automotive industry.
Accessible through the Meta Quest headset, Nissan’s ‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’ ensures ease of access for users looking to immerse themselves in this virtual journey. This user-friendly approach enhances the inclusivity of the project, opening it up to a broader audience.
‘Heritage Cars & Safe Drive Studio’ is not Nissan’s first foray into the virtual realm. In 2022, the company introduced its initial virtual test drive, offering users the chance to experience a Nissan vehicle from the comfort of their homes. Subsequently, in December 2023, they revamped four existing metaverse worlds, further solidifying their presence in the virtual domain. Through this initiative, Nissan once again establishes themselves as pioneers in the automotive sector, blending immersive experiences with educational insights to celebrate their legacy and promote road safety.