App-Based Game for the Car
Escape Room Game in the Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford has transferred the concept of Escape Room games to its electric Mustang. Technical vehicle components provide an interactive gaming experience. The aim is to demonstrate how games can help drivers become more familiar with the functions of their car.
The concept game from the spy genre sends players on a secret mission to deliver a mysterious package. Instructions are given via the vehicle's loudspeaker system. In addition, the electric seats, automatic tailgate, air conditioning and headlights are activated during the course of the game or must be used by the player for specific actions.
Apart from the heating and speakers, no function of the game can be controlled while the car is in motion. Unlike normally completely virtual Escape Room games, players can leave the vehicle at any time without losing the levels they have already achieved. The computer game is installed on an iOS end device that is connected to the vehicle via Apple CarPlay and specially developed hardware and software. The video for it can be seen here.
»It's fun that also has a serious side, because it shows what is basically possible with the technology we have in cars today,« explains Carsten Starke, Technical Expert Interior Materials & Customer Experience, Ford Research & Advanced Engineering, Ford Europe. The playfully tested interaction between vehicle and driver is intended to open up new perspectives and possibilities for the future, such as an interactive operating manual or even driver coaching.
At the moment, the game is a pure working concept developed by Ford Europe in cooperation with the company's own Emerging Technology & Innovation group as well as the IOT group based in Palo Alto, California. The aim is to show how people can become more familiar with the functions of their vehicles through play. The game also offers insights into the future of possible applications, for example to provide drivers and passengers with additional entertainment while waiting at charging stations in autonomous electric vehicles.
