Hyundai, Naver team up for remote test-drive experience via metaverse interactive driving

Hyundai Motor is offering something unique to consumers or people who are interested in its vehicles. The South Korean automaker will keep providing interactive experiences to car enthusiasts around the world.

In fact, Hyundai Motor just posted an invitation for the consumers to test-drive its Sonata N sports car. Interested individuals can have a chance for this wherever they may be in the world since it will be done remotely, on metaverse.

The world’s first virtual test drive

Hyundai Motor has invested in NAVER Z’s metaverse service Zepeto to be able to offer a test drive service for potential buyers of its Sonata N, the sports car version of the regular Sonata. The virtual experience will also expand the collective virtual shared space that will allow the interactions of customers and car representatives.

As per Pulse News, the Korean carmaker stated that its aim for the metaverse service is to exhibit its Sonata N models to the young MZ generation or MZers to increase communication with future prospective buyers while also building up the high-tech image of its brand. The Mzers are referred to in South Korea as intimately connecting with consumers in a safer, more convenient, and in a manner that is apt to the times.

In any case, the metaverse where the virtual drive test will be available was created by Zepeto. Through this, Hyundai Motor will allow drivers a unique driving experience for its N Line brand.

Driving the Sonata N Line remotely

Moreover, Zepeto is a 3D avatar app service that was introduced and operated by Naver Z Corp., one of Naver’s affiliates that operates the augmented reality (AR) business. Currently, the platform boasts over 220 million users from around the world, covering at least 200 countries.

The Korea Economic Daily mentioned that the collaboration between Naver and Hyundai Motor.

Will have the test drivers drive the Sonata N Line through downtown areas designed by Zepeto’s. Other driving zones are also available online, and this setup made Hyundai the very first automaker to offer this kind of remote metaverse driving experience on Zepeto.

“We will strengthen our corporate image as a brand that leads the development of cutting-edge technologies and expands customer experience into the virtual world, where MZers form the main group of users,” a representative from Hyundai said. “Hyundai Motor will offer a wider selection of vehicles on Zepeto beyond the current Sonata N Line.”