The metaverse is a virtual world that focuses primarily on social connection.
Since 3D graphics dominate the platform, consumers expect an immersive experience.
To help consumers have a deeper virtual experience, automobile makers are expanding their presence in the metaverse.
Manufacturers can enhance the experience for car users by using contextual advertising. This can also help increase the customer base.
Consumers can enjoy test drives from the comfort of their own homes, and visit showrooms virtually.
Acura Announces NFTs
Acura is setting a trend by being the first auto manufacturer to open a digital showroom in the metaverse.
This was how Acura introduced its 2023 integra model and launched its first NFT. The first 500 customers who reserve a 2023 Acura Integra will also be able to claim its base NFT.
The NFT has been designed by the artist Andreas Wennerstedt.
The base NFT will be elevated into a unique Integra NFT once the customer gets the delivery of the 2023 Acura Integra car.
Virtual Showroom
Acura’s virtual showroom in the metaverse is called Acura of Decentraland.
In the showroom, customers can examine the vehicle’s features.
Visitors of the showroom need not possess the NFT to enter it.
Not only can they examine the car, but they can also play the game, ‘Beat That in the showroom’. They could also go through an apparel collection called the Integra apparel collection, which was designed by Wannerstedt.
There are also interactive rooms and activities. The digital showroom opens on March 22, during the first-ever fashion week in the metaverse.
Attract Young Consumers
Acura has always focused on youth. Its campaign in 2018 called ‘What a ride’, gave consumers opportunities to engage with the campaign through ads on Snapchat and Facebook.
In January 2022, Acura launched an anime series at the Sundance Film Festival. The series was meant to launch its Type S vehicle lineup.
The anime series had episodes on YouTube. In 2020 Acura also launched an AR driving game.
In a similar manner, to announce the Integra and the NFTs, there is a mixed media campaign that plays throughout the March Madness NCAA college basketball tournament.
Immersive Experience
The virtual showroom is a novel experience as well as an immersive one.
Offering an immersive experience to customers will help Acura connect with them in a more meaningful way.
As part of the Integra campaign, specific NFT spots will also run across social media until all the 500 NFTs have been claimed.
It seems that Acura is all set to be a part of the Web3 infrastructure that is ushering in the new era of the internet.