Toyota TeenDrive365 Driving Simulator Highlights Dangers of Distracted Driving
The 2016 Tacoma isn’t the only thing Toyota brought to the Detroit Auto Show. While all eyes were on the truck’s reveal earlier this week, convention-goers were also treated to a new Toyota TeenDrive365 driving simulator that uses Oculus Rift to help educate both teens and their parents about the dangers of distracted driving—which includes, but is by no means limited to, texting while driving.
Toyota TeenDrive365 driving simulator shows that learning can be fun
In the new driving simulator, the user gets into a real Toyota vehicle and dons the Oculus Rift headset, which then provides a virtual reality driving experience which mirrors a real-life drive that the user might have on a busy street. The driver must use the car’s pedals and steering wheel to navigate the street while blocking out various distractions, including text messages, the radio, traffic noise, and passengers. If the driver gets distracted, he or she will get to see the potential consequences in a safe, virtual environment. Toyota hopes that the new driving simulator will show drivers how easy it is to get distracted behind the wheel, and teach them safe driving habits moving forward.
“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,” explained Marjorie Schussel, Toyota’s Corporate Marketing Director. “This is just the latest example of how we’re helping teens and parents become safer drivers together through our ongoing TeenDrive365 initiative.”
The driving simulator will feature at auto shows across the country this year. You can learn more about these events here. While on TeenDrive365’s website, make sure you explore the many resources available to help you and your family members become safe, responsible drivers.
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