TeenDrive365 Distracted Driving Simulator Launched by Toyota

Jan 20, 2015

In order to help teens and their parents learn the importance of combating distracted driving, Toyota has launched the new TeenDrive365 distracted driving simulator with Oculus Rift. To utilize this system, the user simply needs to be sitting in any parked Toyota vehicle while wearing the special Oculus Rift headset. Additional technologies utilized by this system include RealSpace™ 3D Audio, 3D immersive audio, 100 degree field of view that goes beyond your peripheral vision, 360 degree head tracking that follows every turn of the head in real time and a unique 3D view with high quality depth and scale.

Once on, the headset will create a complete virtual simulation of a busy downtown road for drivers to navigate through. The actual pedals and steering wheel on the vehicle will be used in order to give you a real sense of driving throughout the program. While driving, you will be faced with a number of typical driving distractions including friends in the passenger and back seat, text messages, music and traffic noise. The program helps to monitor your ability to stay focused through the distractions and provides consequences if you don’t.

“Oculus Rift provides a virtual reality driving experience that mirrors real life behind the wheel, giving us a powerful, one-of-a-kind way to show parents and teens how everyday distractions can affect their ability to drive safely,” said Marjorie Schussel, Corporate Marketing Director for Toyota. “This is the most innovative example of how we’re helping teens and parents become safer drivers together through our ongoing Toyota TeenDrive365 initiative.”