Dashboard instrument displays have continued to become more and more trend setting, all black faces then white. Some, like that offered by Silver Leaf, provide the all digital glass dash, rivaling that of the aircraft industry. But, these still require taking your eyes from the road to view. So, what’s next? My money will be on HUD “Heads Up Display” projected see through instrumentation. Similar to that found on some automobiles, except the large motor home windshield will probably require a separate small stand alone glass piece to accomplish the clear projection. Automobiles currently require special windshields designed for the HUD projection.
In a motor home, having all the instruments within view while watching the road, would be a great benefit, both for safety and driver fatigue. Additionally, the projection of the navigation and possibly the back up camera could add further dimensions. Even though, most, if not all navigation units are audio equipped, there are times when a quick view is helpful. A good example of this can be found when traveling through a city with multi-lane highways and the need to understand which lane to be in to make your next turn.
I’ve driven a number of miles with HUD instrumentation that I had in a car I owned for three years. It could be adjusted slightly up or down, dimmed or turned off. It is not distracting, like one may think that has never tried it. In fact I found it was easily looked through and forgotten to the point where I would catch myself looking down to check my speed. So, if anything, it requires practice to use it efficiently.
But, why stop there? Now let’s add the projected night vision that has been introduced by General Motors for Cadillac. The night vision is essentially a thermal imaging device originally designed and used by the military. Infrared driven, it substantially enhances the road and obstacles ahead. Though I’ve never had practical experience with this gizmo, I would think, at a $2300 Caddy option, it better do something good.
I wouldn’t look for these to show up too soon at your local dealer, especially thermal imaging. But, the standard HUD, perhaps even in an after market plug and play kit may be a reality in the not so distant future.
Keep Your Eyes On The Road – Lug_Nut – Peter Mercer