How to Incorporate VR/AR in Automotive Marketing

AR Brings Cars to Driveways

At Thrive Digital Marketing, we incorporated AR into an automotive client’s campaign by creating an interactive feature that lets users visualize different car models in their driveway using their smartphones. This gave potential buyers the ability to “see” the vehicle in real life, explore features, and even change colors — all from home. It boosted engagement and kept the brand top-of-mind during the research phase.

One tip: make it easy to use. We kept the AR experience browser-based, with no app download required. When tech enhances the experience instead of complicating it, people are more likely to remember — and trust — the brand.

Tire AR Boosts Confidence and Sales

In the automotive industry, incorporating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into marketing is not just about novelty—it’s about offering utility, trust, and personalization at scale. While I’ve primarily worked with DTC and eCommerce brands, I’ve applied the same strategic thinking to clients in the automotive category by integrating AR/VR experiences that support education and conversion.

One example was a campaign for a tire retailer, where we piloted an AR experience allowing users to “see” different tire styles on their vehicle using just their smartphone camera. We worked with our development and UX team to integrate this into the PDP (Product Detail Page) across mobile and tablet, enabling customers to visualize not only the fit but also the tread, style, and performance ratings of different options. Within the first 90 days of launch, we saw a 23% reduction in product return requests due to sizing or style mismatch, and an 18% increase in conversion rate on pages where the AR tool was available.

The KPI that stood out most was the time-on-page—customers who used the AR feature spent 42% more time engaging with content, and we tracked a 12% higher average order value (AOV) among those who interacted with the experience versus those who didn’t. This showed us that AR didn’t just improve UX—it directly influenced purchase confidence and overall cart size.

In today’s competitive environment, especially in automotive where the research phase is long and trust is hard-earned, AR and VR tools can simplify decision-making and reduce friction in the buying journey. My approach has always been to use emerging tech as a tool to close gaps in customer confidence. When done well, it turns complexity into clarity—and that’s where the brand wins.

Virtual Showrooms Revolutionize Car Shopping

Utilizing VR technology to create captivating virtual showrooms transforms how dealerships showcase their vehicles to prospective buyers. Virtual showrooms allow customers to explore 360-degree car views, offering an immersive experience that traditional presentations simply cannot match. With the ability to interact with various vehicle features in a virtual space, potential buyers can examine every detail–from the interior finishes to the engine specifications–without ever stepping foot in a dealership.

This technology enhances the dealership experience with VR by providing customers with a realistic and engaging environment. Virtual reality can simulate real-life scenarios, such as taking a car for a test drive or comparing different models side by side. By incorporating immersive vehicle presentations, dealerships can attract tech-savvy consumers and cater to their expectations for modern shopping experiences.

Augmented reality (AR) apps are revolutionizing how customers interact with products and brands, particularly in the automotive industry. One significant application is using augmented reality apps for cars, which allows potential buyers to visualize features and specifications in a highly engaging manner. Customers can access detailed information, 3D models, and even personalized features that elevate their shopping experience by simply pointing their mobile devices at a car.

Interactive brochures with AR technology are another innovative tool that enhances customer engagement strategies. These brochures allow users to scan images with their smartphones, instantly bringing static content to life with videos, animations, or additional details about the vehicle. This not only provides a richer informational experience but also encourages deeper exploration of the product.

Furthermore, AR technology test drives offer an immersive way for customers to experience vehicles without leaving their homes or dealerships. Virtual test drives enable users to simulate driving experiences and explore various features through augmented overlays on real-world environments. This interactive approach captivates potential buyers and helps build meaningful connections between them and the brand.

Visualize Garage Floors with AR

We’ve also adopted augmented reality for homeowners so they can visualize what their garage will look like with different types of epoxy flooring finishes prior to starting the job. One client was wavering between two flake blends, so we employed a simple AR overlay on their mobile phone to see each choice projected onto their actual garage floor in real time. Seeing the textures and colors in context gave them absolute confidence in their decision. It also streamlined our design process and enhanced customer satisfaction — no guesswork, no regrets. While at the same time, it became a game-changer in bringing garage upgrades to life with an experience that is fully immersive and individualized.

VR Rides Fuel Motorcycle Fundraising

Being deeply embedded in the motorcycle community through Support Bikers, I’ve seen how virtual reality (VR) can improve the experience for riders. One effective way we’ve used VR is during fundraising events to support bikers in need, such as our “Wrecked Riders” Fund. We created immersive VR experiences that allowed participants to virtually feel the thrill of riding different motorcycles on iconic routes. This not only lifted the event experience but also increased engagement and donations by 40%.

Additionally, through my work at Six Bends Harley Davidson, I’ve observed the impact of AR in showrooms. We used AR to provide detailed bike customizations and virtual test rides, which educated customers and reduced the decision-making time. The AR tool ranked our dealership’s sales conversions among the top in Florida, with a steady 30% increase in purchase rates. Such experiences offer a more compelling visualization, fostering deeper connections with potential buyers and driving sales.

AR Makes Vehicle Tracking Crystal Clear

We’ve started using AR at Trackershop to help customers visualize our tracking devices in real-time—because let’s be honest, trying to explain where a tracker goes in a vehicle without a visual aid is like describing where the TV remote should be but never is.

One fun example? Our AR tool lets customers ‘drop’ a tracker into their car using their phone. It’s kind of like Pokemon Go… but instead of catching Pikachu, you’re figuring out where to discreetly hide a device that can recover your car if it’s stolen. Less exciting for kids, way more exciting for fleet managers.

It’s actually helped cut down on support questions too—people get to see the scale and setup for themselves, without us having to say, ‘It’s about the size of a deck of cards… no, not jumbo cards… yes, a regular deck.’ So really, it’s saving everyone time—and maybe a little sanity.