Developing MIRCON: A Mixed Reality Configurator to Determine User Requirements in Light Electric Vehicles

Abstract

The use of light electric vehicles offers the potential to save resources, reduce emissions, and optimize urban space. Despite these advantages, such vehicles currently hold only a minor market share. Conducting user studies is essential to understand why this is the case and to identify potential requirements for such vehicles. However, due to the low popularity of vehicle class L7e, participants may struggle to articulate their needs. Mixed Reality helps by immersing users in a virtual environment, enabling them to experience the vehicle firsthand and give more intuitive feedback. Through a configurator, users can explore various options and features, enabling them to prioritize those most relevant to them. Additionally, a tracked physical seat allows users to gain a better sense of scale and positioning. This paper discusses the conception, implementation, and execution of user tests for MIRCON (Mixed Reality Configurator).