How AR glasses can revolutionize the driving experience

What was your project about, and what challenge did it aim to solve?

We explored how AR glasses could enrich the driving experience of the future in the research department of a global automotive industry leader. The idea was to project additional information, such as navigation data or vehicle status, directly into the driver’s field of vision, so they wouldn’t need to take their eyes off the road. Particularly exciting was integrating this technology into one of the customer’s premium products.

The central challenge was synchronizing the glasses precisely with the vehicle’s systems. How could we ensure that 3D animations or prompts appear exactly where they’re needed? And how could we combine data from the vehicle’s various compatible sensors, so the AR glasses respond in real time?

How did the collaboration with the customer unfold?

Our team worked closely with the customer’s research department. The goal was to develop a universal interface enabling communication between the vehicle and AR glasses, regardless of the manufacturer. The focus was on research. We analyzed which technologies were already available on the market and tested how they could be integrated into the vehicle.

A special moment was presenting the technology at CES in Las Vegas. There, we introduced the AR glasses to a broad audience and demonstrated how they could enhance the driving experience.

What solutions did ALTEN develop to overcome these challenges?

Our approach was to create a flexible interface that standardizes the connection between the vehicle and AR glasses. Similar to how a smartphone pairs with a car, the AR glasses should be integrated seamlessly.

We didn’t focus on developing our own glasses but rather on optimizing the use of existing technologies. The focus was primarily on data synchronization.

What challenges came up during the implementation of the glasses?

The biggest hurdle was synchronizing the various systems. Each sensor in the vehicle has its own characteristics and latency times. For example, if the glasses require data that is five minutes ahead, we had to ensure the calculations remained accurate.

Another critical aspect was communication between the systems:

• How is data transmitted from the vehicle to the glasses?
• How can this data be further processed on the user’s smartphone?

A deep understanding of the different platforms and their quirks was essential here.

Which results made you and your team proud?

A definite highlight was the presentation at CES in Las Vegas. We were able to show that our research not only works in theory but also impresses in practice. The reactions from visitors were overwhelmingly positive.

Currently, we’re working to further develop the technology and prepare it for mass production. We’re convinced this technology will sustainably transform the driving experience.

What are the advantages of AR glasses compared to existing solutions?

The greatest advantage lies in their flexibility and added safety. While other manufacturers often use AR glasses only for static applications, our solution enables dynamic interaction during the drive. Drivers receive real-time information without having to look away from the road.

AR glasses are not a replacement for classic displays but a meaningful addition. They offer immersive experience that makes driving not only safer but also more entertaining. Compared to Virtual Reality (VR), AR has the advantage of allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.