What are the differences between real driving and the driving you do in a video game? Well, for starters; the way that you look at the road varies greatly. Take out your car for a ride and then compare it to driving a car in Gran Turismo. What feels cooler and more interactive? Yeah, we thought so and so did Jaguar when they started working on what is being termed as ‘virtual windscreen concept’.
So what is this concept really about? In a nutshell; this will allow you to experience real life driving from a gamer’s perspective. The concept entails hazards cautions, speed and navigation icons all displayed on the screen. However, the best part of this concept comes into play when the performance drivers employ this technology on the track to enjoy the privileges of virtual racing lines, brake guidance, ghost cars and virtual cones all being projected on the windscreen for the driver to use.
Research and Technology Director at Jaguar, Dr. Wolfgang Epple, says; ‘Showing virtual images that allow the driver to accurately judge speed and distance will enable better decision-making and offer real benefits for everyday driving on the road or the track.’
Sounds cool, right? Well check this awesome feature out too; gesture control system to free the driver from remembering the controls and reaching for them. The concept employs a technology known as e-field sensing that relies on capacitive discharge touch screens. The e-field sensing is responsive to a distance of 15 cm and for comparison’s sake; a smartphone’s screen is responsive to a distance of 5mm.
Dr. Epple says; ‘Gesture control has become an accepted form of controlling anything from TV sets to games consoles. The system is currently being tested on a number of features including sun blinds, rear wipers and sat nav maps. It has the potential to be on sale within the next few years.’
There are also plans to introduce technology that will replace rear view mirrors along with external mirrors by making use of virtual displays coupled with cameras. However, although it may look like a video game, but remember; you won’t be able to hit retry and start over if you hit the car into another car or a barrier!