For several years, the automotive sector has been undergoing a technological transformation major: “nearly 30% of the sector’s expenditure is devoted to R&D”These developments redefine our relationship with the carBetween embedded human-machine interfaces, augmented reality and artificial intelligence, innovation is now a central engine of this revolution. These advances affect all aspects of the vehicle, from on-board radars to display systems. In this article, we focus more specifically on the technologies of transparent screens.
The entry of transparent screens into the automobile industry
Driven by the meteoric rise of metaverse and augmented reality technologies, transparent screens have revolutionized the automobile industry, transforming not only the way we drive, but also our relationship with the vehicle. This relationship is becoming more immersiveOr intimate. This double evolution, technological and behavioral, particularly in human-machine interaction, opens the way to a real revolution in display systems, of which transparent screens represent one of the most promising examples.
From a moderate display to an expanded and immersive display
The automotive industry is seeking to move beyond traditional screens, whose role has evolved considerably. Initially intended to convey basic information, they have gradually expanded and been enriched with new features, becoming true driving and entertainment interfaces. This transformation is changing our relationship with screens and encouraging manufacturers to explore new technologies. The goal: to offer more visual space, improve the user experience, and make the interior more immersive.
These screens are distinguished by their ability to project information onto a larger surface, while ensuring high resolution. They make the display more intuitive, less intrusive and reduce distractions for the driver.
OLED, QLED, Micro-LED and DLP: understanding screen technologies
Display technologies therefore represent a favorable testing ground for innovation in the automotive industry. Each technology has advantages and limitations, adapted to different uses and constraints.
DLP (Digital Light Processing) DLP uses micro-mirrors to reflect light and form the image. This technology allows for large displays with consistent resolution and stable brightness. In the automotive industry, it is primarily used for HUDs (head-up displays), which project information directly onto the windshield to provide clear and dynamic reading without cluttering the passenger compartment. However, it has limitations in terms of contrast and can sometimes be limited in terms of display.
QLED (Quantum Light Emitting Diode) QLED screens rely on conventional backlighting, enhanced by a layer of nanocrystals (Quantum Dots). This technology allows for very high brightness as well as great purity and richness of colors. The images are vibrant and precise, making them an ideal solution for bright interiors. However, the presence of backlighting prevents perfectly deep blacks from being obtained and the viewing angles remain more limited than on other technologies.
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) OLED displays use organic diodes capable of producing their own light, without backlighting. Because each pixel can turn off completely, they deliver deep blacks and exceptional contrast, ensuring optimal readability in dark environments. However, this technology is susceptible to burn-in: a static interface displayed for too long can leave a persistent mark on the screen.
Micro-LED Micro-LED technology is based on thousands of tiny, self-contained inorganic diodes. Like OLED, it does not require backlighting, but is distinguished by higher brightness, longer lifespan, and no burn-in. It offers vibrant colors and optimal readability even in direct sunlight, making it a particularly promising option for automotive applications. However, it remains the […] (the sentence is incomplete).
The use of these technologies is already a reality, whether for cockpits or integrated directly into certain vehicles. Thus, DLP technology is used in the Mercedes S-Class HUDOn the OLED side, we can mention the Genesis GV80, equipped with an impressive 27-inch screen, or Ferrari, which collaborates with Samsung Display to integrate custom OLED panels into its models.
Conclusion
Technological innovation in the automotive industry is booming, and the display sector is no exception. Several manufacturers have also formed strategic partnerships with major display players such as LG, Samsung ou SWAROVSKI, in order to offer ever more efficient systems. The objective is twofold: ensure the safety of drivers and passengers, all in improving user experience, making it more comfortable, intuitive and simple.
This development, however, raises a crucial question: What are the challenges to overcome in order to offer a truly qualitative user experience?
These UX challenges constitute the next essential step in transforming these display technologies into truly useful innovations adopted on a large scale. This will be the subject of our next article! 🙂
Marwa Frawes, AMOA project manager at UX-Republic
