Hyundai Oilbank has pulled off a doozy in a technological field of novelties: a virtual energy station that “offers” gasoline, hydrogen, and electricity to curious participants.
The virtual energy station is located in the Zepeto metaverse, which serves 250 million users. It comes complete with “convenient outdoor facilities” such as a car wash, shopping malls, and outdoor terraces. People can access the virtual energy station through smart devices, PCs, or a virtual reality headset.
There’re no quotes from top Hyundai Oilbank executives about the project, but one publication has suggested that the energy station will introduce customers to other parts of Hyundai’s business.
The energy station may prove to be just a novelty if virtual reality cars in Zepeto’s metaverse don’t need fuel to run. In some other metaverses, users have done away with vehicles, with the programming allowing for quicker travel methods like teleporting.
The Metaverse Industry Expected to Reach $800 Billion by 2028
Although Hyundai Oilbank’s venture may seem curious, companies are diving into the metaverse left and right. Part of the reason is the appeal for profits. According to some estimates, the metaverse industry will reach $800 billion by 2028, up from $50 billion in 2020.
Some of the biggest names purchasing land in the metaverse include Gucci, Manchester City, Miller Lite, and, of course, the legendary rapper and Web3 supporter Snoop Dogg. All have bought land in various metaverses to build experiences on them.
For instance, Miller Lite created a virtual bar in Decentraland where users will be able to “play” billiards, order a beer, and watch a game. While initially billed as an alternative way to advertise during the Super Bowl, the bar could give rise to a community that would frequent it.
There is no word whether Hyundai Oilbank’s virtual energy station in Zepeto will have crossover off-chain appeal. However, this is a theme some companies building in the metaverse are exploring. In the case of Hyundai Oilbank’s station, users could purchase “gas” in the metaverse that would correspond to an actual fill-up.
If nothing else, the station may prove to be good publicity. The news of this endeavor could make more people aware of the company and if they visit the virtual station, more aware of the different sides of Hyundai Oilbank’s company. Hence more customers.