# Virtual Drive Autos with augmented reality features enhance driving. By [Katherinev123](https://www.trendhunter.com/katherine), Contributing Editor | Published May 22, 2012, updated Aug 29, 2013 | Category: [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/auto-and-motor-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/virtual-drive ## Key Figures - Trend score: 3.4/10 - Evidence articles: 6 ## What is the Virtual Drive trend? **Virtual Drive:** The benefits and advantages of using augmented reality have been shown in both technological innovation and marketing, so it comes as no surprise that many car brands are beginning to infuse the technology into their latest models -- for example, Mercedes' gesture-controlled DICE dashboard. At the same time, tech designers are also developing special AR driving tools, such as enhanced GPS applications and virtual games for children. These augmented reality innovations enhance the driving experience, making commutes a safer and more pleasant experience for everyone, from the driver to those sitting in the backseat. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 6 featured examples - Articles from: Jul 8, 2011 to May 12, 2012 - Published: May 22, 2012 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Acceleration](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/acceleration) - Megatrends: [Multisensation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/multisensation), [Experience](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/experience), [Artificial Intelligence](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/artificial-intelligence) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Virtual Drive trend ### Augmented Reality The integration of augmented reality technology enhances the driving experience providing a safer and more pleasant experience. ### Gesture Control Gesture-controlled technology is being incorporated in car dashboards, providing drivers with a futuristic and intuitive way to interact with their vehicle. ### Virtual Reality Virtual reality technology is being used in GPS devices and backseat entertainment, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for passengers. ## What the Virtual Drive trend means for industry ### For Automotive Industry The automotive industry has been incorporating technological innovations like augmented and virtual reality to enhance the driving experience and create safer vehicles. ### For GPS Navigation Industry The GPS navigation industry is integrating virtual and augmented reality technology to provide more accurate and intuitive directions to drivers. ### For Entertainment Industry The entertainment industry is exploring new avenues for immersive experiences, such as virtual and augmented reality backseat entertainment systems. ## Trend signals for Virtual Drive Trend score 3.4 out of 10, from popularity 63%, activity 31%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 63% - Activity: 31% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Virtual Drive trend 6 featured examples from Jul 8, 2011 to May 12, 2012. - [Virtual Reality GPS Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cyber-navi-by-pioneer): 'Cyber Navi' by Pioneer Combines Mario Kart Racing with Car Navigation (Category: Autos) Implication: The automotive technology industry can leverage augmented reality navigation systems to enhance the driving experience and attract tech-savvy consumers. - [Projected Backseat Entertainment](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/geelab): GEELab Creates a Holographic Game for Children in the Car (Category: Autos) Implication: The automotive industry can incorporate holographic backseat entertainment systems to enhance the passenger experience and attract families with children. - [Augmented Reality GPS Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wikitude-drive): Wikitude Drive Displays Live Video of where you're Going (Category: Pop Culture) Implication: There is potential for developers to create more innovative GPS apps that provide real-time navigation for drivers. - [Futuristic Navigation Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tapnav-app): The TapNav App Uses Augmented Reality and GPS to Enhance Driving (Category: Autos) Implication: The navigation technology industry has opportunities to revolutionize the way people navigate by integrating GPS and augmented reality. - [Gesture-Controlled Dashboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercedes-benz-dice): Mercedes-Benz DICE Concept Detects Hand Motions (Category: Autos) Implication: The automotive industry can explore the integration of gesture-controlled dashboards to enhance user experience and differentiate their products in the market. - [Heads-Up Holograms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/true3d): True3D, a Virtual Interface System, Wins Munich's Top Navigation Prize (Category: Autos) Implication: Using augmented reality to enhance the driving experience and reducing distractions, paving the way for future innovations in the automotive industry. ## Recent trend clusters - [Racing Homage](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/racing-homage) (Autos) - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Autos - [French Retro City Cars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/french-retro-city-cars) - [Factory-Backed Performance Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heritage-performance-centers) - [Flexible Luxury Motorhomes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flexible-luxury-motorhomes) - [Electric Luxury Grand Tourers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/high-price-ev-sedans) All articles: [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos)