Petersen explores iconic sci-fi vehicles in new exhibit

(May 1, 2019) LOS ANGELES — The Petersen Automotive Museum has announced that its upcoming “Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy” exhibit will spotlight a unique and immersive mixed-reality experience powered by Microsoft HoloLens.

The display, named “Hollywood Dream Machines: Worlds Reimagined,” will be centered around the iconic Time Machine from “Back to the Future” and the famed Warthog from the “Halo” franchise.

Opening to the public on May 5, the experience will offer guests an inside look at these legendary sci-fi machines. The museum will also host an opening reception on the evening of May 4.

Using Microsoft HoloLens, “Back to the Future” co-creator and producer Bob Gale will guide fans into the world of Hill Valley to tour the ins and outs of the legendary Time Machine. For those looking to explore the “Halo” universe, the “Monitor” 343 Guilty Spark will offer guests an inside look at the systems and weaponry of the mighty Warthog.

“The Petersen is proud to partner with Microsoft on this mixed-reality project,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “This exhibit is made to highlight the futuristic vehicles and technologies that spark our imaginations, and Microsoft’s HoloLens is a cutting-edge way to express that high-tech vision in real life.”

Produced in collaboration with Comic-Con with additional support by Microsoft and Audi, other key vehicles in the “Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy” exhibit will include the 2016 Audi R8 from “Avengers: Age of Ultron” and “Captain America: Civil War,” the 2035 Audi RSQ from “I Robot,” the Weyland Industries RT01 Group Transport from “Prometheus,” the 2008 Audi R8 from “Iron Man,” Bumblebee from the “Transformers” series, the GM Ultralight from “Demolition Man,” several Batmobiles, along with over 40 additional iconic Hollywood vehicles, artwork, props and costumes.

“We are incredibly excited to be partnering again with the Petersen on a second mixed reality experience for their guests,” said Ryan Gaspar, director of Brand Partnerships at Microsoft. “Leveraging Microsoft HoloLens as a means of enhancing the rich stories of ‘Back to the Future’ and ‘Halo’ is an incredibly fitting use of the technology.”

To kick off the exhibit, the Petersen will host an opening reception on the evening of May 4 with live entertainment, and gourmet appetizers and cocktails.