Bizarre ‘Nintendo' solution to huge road problem
And the EV maker's solution might be one of the cleverest ways to deal with bad drivers.
The feature, called 'Road Rage Reliever', lets frustrated drivers 'throw' virtual emojis at the offender's car by using the vehicle's AR head-up display found in the new XPeng models.
And it will look familiar to anyone who has enjoyed a game of Mario Kart, the Nintendo game that allows you to toss items at other road users while you race.
XPeng will allow drivers to throw virtual emojis at other cars. Picture: Instagram/em3rging
XPeng revealed the feature in the all-new P7. Picture: XPeng
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Video circulating on social media shows the feature being introduced during the unveiling of the P7 which offers a massive 87-inch AR-HUD.
During a live demonstration, XPeng showed how drivers can express their frustration by throwing virtual emojis onto the car in front by pressing a button on the steering wheel.
XPeng claims the feature offers a safer way to release frustration without engaging in aggressive driving.
XPeng's Road Rage Reliever feature. Picture: X/@42how_
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However, the idea has received mixed opinions.
Users online praised the feature as being the perfect solution for people with road rage, while others worry it could lead to further incidents caused by driver distraction.
'So you tap the screen while driving....I wonder what happens when driving distracted,' one user on Instagram said.
'Ummm does this distract the drivers?,' another said.
'This will not distract the driver in the slightest....,' another user said sarcastically.
'Imagine throwing a bunch, then they crash, and then you crash. Drivers shouldn't be allowed more distractions,' another commented.
While there is visible criticism, other users saw the humorous side of things.
'Now add proximity chat at the same time with a timer. Turn the streets into a COD lobby,' One user said.
'Being visible only to you makes it ineffective, but if it was to both it'd end up being a game,' another said.
XPeng revealed the feature in the all-new P7. Picture: XPeng
Inside the P7. Picture: XPeng
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According to XPeng, the feature is optional, and drivers must decide when it's safe to use.
The XPeng P7 is being considered for the Australian market, but there is no confirmation yet on whether Australians will have the opportunity to see this vehicle on local roads. Additionally, it remains uncertain if the innovative Road Rage Reliever feature will be included if the car does become available.
However, if introduced, it could be a surprisingly fitting addition considering the Australia's driving habits.
Did somebody say Mario Kart?
In September 2024, a survey conducted by the insurer NRMA involving 1,464 drivers from two states highlighted a concerning trend in Australia's driving behaviour.
The survey results revealed that 71 per cent of respondents had witnessed tailgating, 67 per cent had observed drivers excessively honking their horns, 60 per cent had noticed the use of hand gestures, and 58 per cent had seen motorists deliberately cutting in front of others.
James Chung
Digital Content Creator
James is a Digital Content Creator at news.com.au and is part of the News Corp Australia's digital real estate team. His previous experience includes working for Sky News Australia.
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