Mini’s new augmented reality glasses at Shanghai Show

Mini has revealed its augmented reality glasses concept ahead of next week's Shanghai Motor Show.

The glasses, which are currently in the working prototype stage, can project vehicle and navigation instructions in front of drivers and render parts of the car – including the A-pillar and doors – 'invisible' in order to improve visibility.

Other functions include a 'first and last mile' system, which guides wearers either from their starting point to the car, or from the car to their final destination on foot. Destination settings can also be programmed while outside the car.

Functions usually handled by a head-up display, such as navigation, speed and traffic data, can be viewed in front of the driver. Phone messages also prompt an alert on the glasses, before being read out by the car. Mini says parking is also made easier thanks to the projecting of images from a fixed camera onto the glasses, helping drivers to locate the curb.

Jörg Preissinger, project manager for the glasses, said: "We have created an interlinked system and augmented reality eyewear with a characteristic Mini design that revolutionises the experience both in and outside the vehicle."

Described as "reavealing the shape of things to come", Mini's augmented reality glasses could become a high-cost option on future models, if approved for production.

Mini is only one such manufacturer to have previewed an augmented reality system. In July last year, Jaguar Land Rover previewed an advanced system which could see project of 'ghost' cars and directional arrows onto the windscreen. The firm also showed off its transparent pillar technology in December 2014.