Lincoln Continental Gets Enhanced Head-Up Display

Ford Motor Co. is introducing a new head-up display system on the 2017 Lincoln Continental that it claims will be the biggest and brightest HUD in the industry.

The customizable system uses Texas Instruments’ digital light projection technology that has long been used to enhanced brightness in digital movie projectors. Ford says the Continental is the first automotive application for the technology.

As with traditional HUDs, the Ford system projects information so that it appears to be floating in front of the windshield. This allows drivers to view the display while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.

The enhanced brightness enables drivers to clearly read the display on sunny days—even while wearing polarized sunglasses, according to the carmaker.

Phone and navigation system information automatically appear in the display. There are customized settings for the clock, outside temperature, fuel level, speed, trip computer, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping. Drivers also can turn the system off completely.

The all-new Continental will be launched in April. The flagship sedan features a host of interior refinements, including acoustic laminated glass and an active noise control system to improve NVH characteristics.