Volkswagen Group has acquired a minority stake in holographic technology developer SeeReal Technologies, with the aim of producing true augmented reality (AR) head-up displays (HUDs) for future vehicles.
The holographic HUDs will enable potentially hazardous situations on the road to be projected into the driver’s field of view in three dimensions. It will also enable telephone callers to appear as holograms and will even facilitate ‘touchable’ displays instead of controls.
According to VW, the fully electric Volkswagen ID.3, which is set to be sold from 2020 onward, will include the first generation of this new AR HUD technology. In future generations, the 3D presentations will merge seamlessly with the environment, allowing for more elaborate displays for all occupants.
Dr Axel Heinrich, head of innovation, Volkswagen Group, said, “Augmented reality will be a key component in future mobility and interaction concepts. This is why we are focusing on key technologies such as holography, which will present this new reality in a fascinating way. We will be providing the automotive requirements for this exciting project and the know-how in 3D technology will be contributed by SeeReal.”
Bo Krøll, CEO of SeeReal Technologies, added, “Automotive applications and interaction solutions for drivers and passengers represent a significant market potential for SeeReal holographic display technology. The current cooperation, which combines Volkswagen’s technology and market leadership with SeeReal’s unique holographic display technology, will be further strengthened by Volkswagen’s investment in SeeReal.”
