Interesting technology

[chetJ]

Here is a cool little piece of technology developed by Garmin in its GPS. My only concern would be would it distract the driver?

Garmin's head-up display connects smartphone navigation to any vehicle windshield - Computerworld

 

[Rubberdown]

I mean, not anymore than the HUD in a corvette distracting you by showing speed, g-load, rpm, etc.

 

[phillyd2]

My only concern would be would it distract the driver?

My car has HUD with the NAV displayed on it and its very helpful and not at all distracting.

 

[Victor_inox]

It`s about time GPS companies started developing something new, my garmin 5 years old, upgraded every year with lifetime subscription, until it dies I won`t replace it. I look at gps every now and then but don`t see a reason upgrading it. HUD is cool I have hud for my motorcycle helmet, love it.

 

[oldsweng]

I've been writing software for aircraft HUDs for 30 years and was involved with the development of a prototype auto HUD in the '80s. HUDs provide a safety benefit if they provide data which keeps the person in control of the vehicle looking out the the windshield AND the display is focused out in front of the vehicle.

Aircraft HUDs provide this capability. Add-on auto HUDs provide at least the eyes-up portion. I don't have any experience with OEM auto HUDs so I do not know if any focus the image in front of the car. The Garmin HUD add-on film/lens may actually provide the capability to focus the image at a distance. For those who are not aware of Garmin's capabilities, they provide one of the standard avionics packages for many of the prop and small jet aircraft so they have the capability to design a proper automobile HUD.

Frankly, the only functions I want on an auto HUD are:
1. Current speed
2. Turn signal indication
3. Cruise control status, including set speed
4. Fuel status
5. General warning light to prompt me to look at dash to see what is wrong

Navigation is the last thing I need. Audio alerts are all I need.

 

[2013Trail]

I think the Garmin HUD is great. Much cheaper than buying a quality aftermarket NAV unit and certainly much cheaper than a factory equipped one unless you must absolutely have enTune. One thing though, I wonder just how "transparent" the plastic film really is once it's installed?

BTW, it couldn't possibly be any more distracting than looking down to read or touch your NAV unit while you drive.