Lexus Introduces New RC F Using Oculus Rift Technology

Lexus has teamed up with Oculus VR, a California-based virtual reality company, utilizing the Oculus Rift technology to create a virtual driving experience for RC F enthusiasts.

Oculus Rift came on the scene back in 2012 during the Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles.

It was the brainchild of gamer and Oculus RV founder Palmer Luckey who wanted to create a better head mounted display with a 90 degree field of view, greater contrast, and decreased latency.

He produced several prototypes of the “Rift” scaling back on the size and weight, while attempting to develop 3D capability and a 270 degree field of view, along with other attributes.

Not long after the birth of the 6th generation unit, Luckey had the intention of putting 100 do-it-yourself start-up kits on KickStarter, a crowd funding site.

Instantly it drew the attention of thousands of people interested in the technology.

Oculus VR grew quickly and eventually raised $2.4 million through Kickstarter.

By 2014, Facebook acquired the small operation for $2.4 billion and Luckey became the poster child for virtual reality gaming.

Today, the Oculus Rift has been adapted for use by global companies such as Lexus, creating its own version of the virtual reality head-mounted display named the Lexus RC F Rift.

The automaker has essentially, taken the steering column and foot pedals of it newest sports coupe and integrated the two with the Oculus Rift DK2 headset.

Users have the ability to take the RC F on a virtual ride around the track, while test driving one of Lexus fastest luxury performance vehicles.

Engineers for the Japanese automaker built The VR simulator in 8 weeks, improving upon the original Oculus Rift, with a 360 degree field of view.

As part of the car’s debut, the RC F Rift will be available at auto shows all throughout the U.S. over the next several months.

Lexus enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to take the RC F for a virtual spin at this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey, CA.

At  Lexus of Highland Park  we believe that this kind of technology is a great way for customers to try out driving a Lexus to see what the experience is like.

“Virtual reality is just one part of the culture of innovation at Lexus that touches everything from design and manufacturing, to racing and the customer experience.”

Stop by Lexus of Highland Park and experience the reality of the Lexus RC F today!