Among the latest entrants in the fervor surrounding the Metaverse are Japan's top auto manufacturers, Nissan and Toyota.
Picture yourself at a car show in Tokyo or remotely joining a virtual business meeting from anywhere on the globe. Such remarkable experiences are about to become commonplace, thanks to Nissan and Toyota's digital ambitions.
Nissan and Toyota Discover the Metaverse's Untapped Opportunities
The two industry titans are exploring this technology with their own unique strategies. Nissan, for instance, is ready to unveil a digital replica of their Ginza showroom in Tokyo. Partnering with VRChat, Nissan aims to create a new immersive experience.
An array of virtual showrooms, car launches, and other interactive events will populate this virtual realm. The latest electric vehicle, the Ariya, styled as an SUV, will star in this digital space.
Nissan showcased its Invisible-to-Visible augmented reality system, linking users to the Metaverse, on its official site.
Technological advances are opening up endless possibilities for services and interactions that enhance the comfort, joy, and ease of driving.
Toyota is Going Remote
Toyota envisions the Metaverse as a platform to enhance remote operations for its divisions, utilizing virtual office technology.
This allows staff to participate in meetings using digital avatars, explore the virtual office space, and communicate easily. Initially driven by the necessity brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, Toyota's digital workspace is now expanding.
A company representative notes, 'As the pandemic keeps many remote, we're offering novel ways for our younger employees and beyond to stay connected.'
In contrast to Hyundai, which collaborated with Meta Kongz to innovate an NFT-centric community and develop NFT items.
For Japan's automotive leaders, the focus is primarily on virtual worlds and realms.
Japan Loves the Metaverse
Brands' interest in NFTs isn't waning. In October 2021, Nissan Canada held a unique NFT auction inspired by the 2021 GT-R NISMO, with car keys to a brand new model included.
The auction proceeds, surpassing a $280,000 threshold, were generously donated to charity by Nissan Canada.
Ken Hearn, Marketing Director at Nissan Canada, remarked on the auction as a pioneering venture reflecting Nissan's innovative essence.
Though further NFT developments remain limited, Nissan's enthusiasm for virtual reality persists.
In April 2020, Nissan rolled out its first virtual feature on the Nissan Philippines website, simulating a dealership interaction without the need for a physical visit.
Users can easily explore the main features of their preferred model with a simple click.
In the same year, Toyota Philippines launched a fresh marketing initiative, bringing the showroom experience into customers' homes, according to their statement.
Users can choose which car model to explore, aided by technology that offers 360-degree views of both the interior and exterior, simulating reality.
Before Nissan and Toyota, other automakers had already joined the Metaverse movement. Ferrari, a luxury sports car icon, teamed up with blockchain enthusiasts Velas Network to craft NFTs for fans.
Automakers Embrace New Digital Challenges
Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz recently embarked on Metaverse campaigns, offering rewards like the latest gaming consoles and advanced driving tutorials at Volkswagen's training centers.
Hyundai, too, is preparing for its foray into the virtual landscape.
Auto industry behemoths are seizing the digital wave, each crafting diverse strategies. The big question remains: Who among them will truly excel?
Nicholas Say, a native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, has traversed the globe, including a stay in Uruguay, and now calls the Far East his home. His prolific writing reflects a deep focus on cutting-edge human technology.
Time will answer the question!
