Future Ford Mustangs Could Be Designed via Holograms

Microsoft HoloLens allows designers to trade in clay models for real-time, three-dimensional Mustang renderings.

Do you ever feel like the future most of us thought of as “wild” seems to be here already? As you know, all it takes is a quick scroll through the latest automotive news nowadays to see the words, “electric,” “driverless,” “hybrid,” and “smart” in headlines. Thanks to a partnership between Ford and Microsoft, now you can add “holograms” to that list.

This video published by Microsoft HoloLens shows the caliber of technology these global companies are experimenting with. According to Ford, it allows designers to envision a vehicle’s design via hologram instead of a clay model. So far the technology requires wireless headsets/goggles to see and hear the digital designs. Yes, we said, “hear.”

Besides being able to see a life-size Ford Mustang rendering, viewers will be able to hear and interact with team members worldwide. More importantly, Ford will be able to explore design proposals while shaving time off design and engineering processes, which currently takes years.
 

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“It’s amazing we can combine the old and the new – clay models and holograms – in a way that both saves time and allows designers to experiment and iterate quickly to dream up even more stylish, clever vehicles,” says Jim Holland, Ford vice president, vehicle component and systems engineering. “Microsoft HoloLens is a powerful tool for designers as we continue to reimagine vehicles and mobility experiences in fast-changing times.”

Another important use for Microsoft’s HoloLens technology could be on the consumer side. Imagine going to an auto show or dealership, where you’ll be able to customize your future Ford Mustang right before your eyes. Want to swap the wheels? No problem. Add a rear spoiler or a different body kit? Just put on the goggles, push a few buttons and voila!

Surely, this is some genius-level software in action, which means that the way we think about car design now will feel prehistoric in no time. Still, we don’t think too many people will miss the old ways much.