Mitsubishi has lined up the opportunity for virtual test-drives of its new 2011 Outlander Sport. And no, we're just talking about another tilt-and-pan virtual showroom feature, or some Need for Speed–style game backdrop.
That's right; you'll send a specially outfitted 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport speeding along, driverless, from your own computer.
"Participants will enjoy the feeling of literally being in the driver's seat," according to Mitsubishi. "The experience gives the driver almost total control over the Outlander Sport."
The idea is a teenager's dream come to life; and for car buyers who grew up on "Wargames" and "Knight Rider" it's one of the most interesting marketing stunts we've seen. No word on hardware or bandwidth requirements, though.
There's also a game aspect to it; drivers will be challenged to gather "feature pods" that teach about the vehicle's amentities.
The Outlander Sport is a new model for 2011; though based heavily on the Outlander, the Sport is shorter and more maneuverable, with room for five, a more economical standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and an affordable $18,495 starting price. But for those interested, a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, hard-drive music storage, and a nav system with real-time traffic are all on the options list, along with all-wheel drive.
Beginning November 1, Mitsubishi Motors North America will offer what it says is the world's first online test drive of an actual vehicle using remote control.
Mitsubishi hired robotics and web-design experts to put together the vehicle, using multiple point-of-view cameras, electronic transceivers, and a host of servo motors controlling aspects of vehicle dynamics. Altogether, that's synced with GPS mapping—though expect the actual vehicle to be located somewhere very remote.
And although the remote-control Outlander Sport might make an interesting driver's ed car someday, for now the offer is only open to those 18 and older with a valid driver's license.
To register for the 'test drive' opportunity, beginning October 15 you can sign up at www.outlandersport.com, where you'll get a code to be used for the live test drive November 1.
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