A non-contact obstacle detection (NCOD) system and a virtual handle assembly for a motor vehicle and a method of operating the non-contact obstacle detection system and a closure member using a virtual handle assembly are disclosed. The NCOD system includes a main electronic control unit. At least one non-contact obstacle sensor is coupled to the main electronic control unit for detecting obstacles. The control unit is configured to detect the obstacle and cease opening of the closure member in response to the obstacle being detected. Additionally, the control unit is configured to release a latch and apply power to a motor in response to the obstacle not being detected. The virtual handle assembly includes at least one virtual handle sensor for detecting a hand and maintaining a distanceto the hand by operating an actuation system to move the closure member.