Kinect technology enables virtual driving experience

Nissan is testing Kinect-enabled showrooms at its dealerships, allowing buyers to get a taste of the driving experience without actually touching the vehicle.

　　Using Microsoft's Kinect technology, dealers can showcase vehicles that are temporarily out of stock (or still on the production line). Currently, 16 Nissan dealers in the United States are piloting this technology. Unfortunately, the only vehicle available for the experience at the moment is the Pathfinder.

　　Nissan says that in the Kinect Experience Room, you can use the motion and voice-activated interface to closely observe every aspect of the vehicle, such as moving forward or reversing.

　　Earlier this year, Nissan demonstrated the Kinect experience for the Pathfinder at the Chicago and New York auto shows, and due to the enthusiastic response from the audience, Nissan decided to try to launch the Kinect Experience Room in dealerships. If the pilot is successful, the technology may be promoted to the other 1,100 dealerships and even into users' homes one day.

　　"Nissan is the first auto company to offer the Kinect experience at dealerships, and we are committed to driving innovation not only in vehicle design but also in marketing," said Jon Brancheau, vice president of marketing for Nissan North America.