Volkswagen is redefining what it means to enjoy your time on the road, thanks to a new partnership with gaming platform AirConsole. This innovative collaboration is set to bring a unique in-car gaming experience to the brand’s drivers and passengers, transforming idle moments into interactive entertainment. Starting with the ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, and ID.3 models running ID. software 4.0, Volkswagen will also extend AirConsole compatibility to the latest Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate models.

Imagine this: you’re on a long road trip, waiting for your electric vehicle to charge, or just taking a break. Instead of simply sitting around, you can now fire up a selection of new games directly on the vehicle’s infotainment display, which doubles as a game console. The real kicker? Your smartphone becomes the controller, allowing you and your passengers to dive into multiplayer gaming action without the need for any extra equipment.

For passengers in the ID.7 Tourer, this means you can challenge your fellow travelers to a game right from your smartphone, mimicking the console-and-controller experience you’d have at home. Volkswagen is rolling out this feature across Europe starting in mid-September, with plans to expand the game library and reach more countries by the end of 2024.

Getting started with AirConsole in your Volkswagen is as simple as it gets. Just fire up the app on your vehicle’s display, scan a QR code with your smartphone, and you’re instantly connected. The platform supports multiple players, so whether you’re parked and waiting or taking a break during your drive, everyone in the car—front or rear—can join in the fun. And, importantly, the game mode is only accessible when the vehicle is in park, ensuring that the experience is both enjoyable and safe.

Volkswagen’s embrace of in-car gaming is more than just a nod to modern entertainment trends; it’s a clear indicator of how the automotive giant is blending technology and leisure to create a driving experience that’s as engaging as it is convenient. Whether you’re a solo traveler or have a full carload of passengers, Volkswagen and AirConsole are making sure that downtime on the road will never be dull again.