How can light pulses in the vehicle interior improve the performance and well-being of the passengers? Scientists at the Fraunhofer IAO are researching answers to this question at the Mass Personalization High-Performance Center in the “Mobility and Living Spaces” department. As part of an international research collaboration with a non-profit scientific research foundation, an initial vehicle prototype was prepared in San Diego and tested with various users. The researchers’ vision is to use digital and immersive services – as an early starting market, particularly in the luxury segment – to transform the vehicle interior into a mental refueling station. The so-called breathwork sessions, consciously guided and performed breathing exercises, supported by an immersive light experience, are intended to help reduce stress, promote the well-being of passengers, and recharge them with performance-enhancing vital energy.

Lessons learned and to be shared:

• How we converted the vehicle interior and why we used certain design approaches for potentially beneficial impacts on mental health
• Insights we gained from this study about the positive effects of breath work in combination with light
• What are the new possibilities at the crossroads of automotive technology and mental health enhancement