Kia To Offer 4D Virtual Test Drives Of The Stinger At The Detroit Auto Show


Kia’s doing things a little differently with the Stinger, and this includes more than showcasing the aggressive styling and powerful powertrain. The automaker recently announced that it would be offering four-dimension (4D) virtual reality test drives of the Stinger at the upcoming North American International Auto Show.

The automaker will have the Kia 4D Stinger Experience available for visitors of the auto show. Upon entering, the viewer is treated to a brief introduction, which outlines Kia’s six-year journey to develop the Stinger, before going on a virtual journey with the sedan. Participants will be able to choose one of three destinations: driving through Southern France, traveling on the Pacific Coast Highway, and spending some time at the Cadwell Park racetrack in the UK.

If you’re wondering how the 4D aspect of the test drive works, five projectors will display the test drive onto three projection screens and the floor, which has been specially programmed. The modified suspension rig will provide participants with haptic feedback that will match what’s going on in the screens.

The 4D experience, according to Kia, will give participants a realistic look at what the Stinger is capable of. “Every twist and turn, every rush of acceleration and every braking run is experienced as if you, the driver, are in command,” Saad Chehab, vice president of marketing communications for Kia Motors America, said.

For Stinger fans that won’t be able to attend the Detroit Auto Show, the automaker is also offering virtual test drives that you can enjoy at home by visiting Jaunt.

Just like with the 4D experience at the auto show, visitors can choose from the same three locations – Cadwell Park, France, and California. Those with virtual reality equipment can download the Jaunt app to get the full effect of the test drives from their house. For the rest, the video offers a 360-degree look at the vehicle and the chosen location. Not as good as the 4D experience, but still quite interesting.

Photo Gallery