VW Puts Advanced HUD Unit on Display

Volkswagen AG says its new head-up display system offers improved visibility and functionality, can be customized by drivers and disappears when not in use. The system is currently being introduced in Europe as a $600 option on the eighth-generation Passat midsize car.

Drivers access the system by pressing a button on the steering wheel, which causes a 4 x 6-inch transparent display to rise from the dashboard. Information is projected from the slide-out pane to appear directly in a driver's line of vision as though it is about seven feet in front of the windshield. This allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road without having to refocus from near- to far-field vision, the carmaker notes.

Using the infotainment system menu, drivers can select the information to display on the HUD. In addition to vehicle speed and speed limits, the system can show navigation information, upcoming traffic sign icons, vehicle data and the status of driver assistance systems.

The display has a resolution of 480 x 240 pixels. When not in use, it is stowed inside the dashboard to protect it from dust.