MINI Unveils New Augmented Reality Eyewear to Enhance Driver Safety

During the recent Auto Shanghai 2015 show, MINI unveiled its concept to further develop augmented vision eyewear in a bid to enhance driver safety and comfort with see-through technology and a non-intrusive heads up display. With the help of BMW Group Company, Designworks and several companies represented by telecommunications firm Qualcomm, an effective prototype has been created to deliver relevant information within the driver’s field of vision without concealing any outside obstacles. The eyewear offers directional assistance and augmented parking as well as the ability to highlight places of interest. Amongst this, an X-ray feature can offer a virtual perspective through the parts of a car which drivers cannot see – including doors and pillaring. MINI’s augmented vision project manager Dr. Jörg Preissinger explains:

Working with several Qualcomm companies, we have created an interlinked system and augmented reality eyewear with a characteristic MINI design that revolutionise the experience both in and outside the vehicle. This prototype with its customised, interactive functions succeeds in fusing augmented reality with the brand’s trademark sense of lifestyle.