Ford will design its next cars with Microsoft HoloLens virtual reality

Ford is one of the first brands to test the new 3D technology from Microsoft, which helps designers try out different options when creating a vehicle. Microsoft HoloLens is a mixed reality system in which car part designs can be seen as if they were already built into the vehicle.

The Microsoft HoloLens system relies on virtual reality glasses with which designers can see holograms or design shapes projected onto real vehicles or clay mock-ups, allowing changes to be made in a matter of seconds. It is possible to change car elements easily and quickly so that the best option can be chosen.

Ford has tested Microsoft HoloLens technology for a year in Dearborn, where the company’s studios are located. They have been able to explore different shapes, sizes and textures of the components that will form the models of the future.

One example would be when designing a vehicle’s wing mirror or how its driver position affects it. This process is usually long and requires several days of study, but with the new HoloLens technology it could be carried out in minutes.

Jim Holland, vice president of Ford, made it clear that Microsoft HoloLens is a powerful tool for the brand. “It is amazing that we can combine holograms and clay mock-ups in a way that saves time and allows designers to experiment quickly to create even more elegant and intelligent cars,” Holland said.

For now, the carmaker has only tested this technology in the USA, but having proven its effectiveness, Ford has confirmed its intention to extend the use of Microsoft HoloLens to other countries.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZQ_DQD7F3U