Like me, if you are a fan of Marvel movies, you must have been fascinated watching Iron Man’s heads up display that shows a collection of vital information on Tony Stark’s sight when he’s wearing one of his high-tech armor. What if I tell you it’s possible to recreate that visual effect, to some extent, inside your car?
Yes, I am talking about HUD or heads-up display! What is a heads-up display? Do you need a special windshield for heads up display? I’ll address most of your HUD queries but will mostly focus on what changes you need to bring to your windshield to embrace a heads-up display.
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What Is A Heads Up Display?
Heads up display is a windshield accessory that allows you to view crucial information on the windshield when you are driving a car. The technology resembles the holographic control panels you would see in science-fiction movies, but it has been around for quite some time now.
HUD displays were first introduced in fighter jets back in the ‘80s. Pilots can see altitude, speed, target location, and other key information in their HUDs. In the later decade, HUDs made their debut in the automotive industry. But, it was mostly limited to high-end cars.
Nowadays, you can find HUDs in many mid-rangers and even entry-level models. The shortage in the microprocessor industry did drive up the price of HUDs lately, but they are still more affordable and sophisticated now than a few decades ago.
Do You Need A Special Windshield For A Heads Up Display?
You don’t necessarily have to install a special type of windshield to get heads up display in your car. The answer to this question depends on the type of heads up display you want to use. I’ll elaborate, but first, let me talk about the two types of heads up display you will get to choose from.
Projection Based Heads Up Display
In a projection based heads up display, the information is projected onto the windshield from the dashboard. There will be a special projector on the dashboard, which will emit laser beams that will make the information appear on the windshield.
Since the windshield will actually work as a projection surface, you will windshields that have been specifically tailored for this purpose. The windshield needs to be coated with a special film that makes it easier for the light to reflect and fall on the driver’s line of sight.
So, if you opt for a projection based heads up display, you will need a special windshield. Unsurpinslgy, this is more expensive than the other HUD option you have.
Reflection Based Heads Up Display
Reflector based heads up display is the most cost-effective HUD solution for drivers. In this method, the light from the projector will not go to the windshield. Rather, it will show the information on a dedicated reflector. You can also do this heads up display smartphone apps.
I’m talking about a dedicated mirror or a reflector that sits in front of the windshield and projects the light coming from the projector. Since the light will not actually bounce off the windshield, there is no need for an especially designed one.
There’s a catch, however. Projection based heads up display creates brighter readings than reflector based HUDs. You can tell the difference, particularly at night when the light bleed becomes more apparent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Add Heads Up Display To Any Car?
Yes, you can add heads up display to any car without changing the windshield or making any other hardware modifications. Install a heads up display app on the phone and hook it up on your dashboard. You can’t enjoy all the perks of a top-tier stock HUD, but you will like the service you get for the minimal investment.
Can You Retrofit Heads Up Display?
100%. Your car doesn’t need to come with a built-in HUD system. You can install a complete HUD system later.
Does HUD work on regular windshield?
A Heads-Up Display (HUD) can work on a regular windshield. While specialized windshields might offer better clarity, retrofit HUD systems can be used with standard windshields, offering helpful information without taking your eyes off the road.
Andy’s Opinion
The question “Do you need a special windshield for a heads-up display (HUD)?” is a common query for car owners interested in this technology.
A HUD projects important data, such as speed, navigation directions, or fuel level, onto the car’s windshield, allowing the driver to see this information without taking their eyes off the road.
The answer is not necessary. You do have the option of purchasing a specially designed windshield for HUD. This type of windshield often comes with specific coatings or designs that can enhance the readability and clarity of the HUD display.
If you opt for this, you might experience a superior HUD experience but at a potentially higher cost.
However, if you want to save money, there’s a more cost-effective solution. You can make your current windshield work with a retrofitted HUD system.
These devices can be added to your dashboard and are designed to project information onto a standard windshield. They don’t require any specific windshield modifications or replacements.
While the display’s clarity might not match that of a specialized HUD windshield, these retrofitted systems are often more affordable and still offer the primary benefit of HUD technology.
So, while you can opt for a specialized windshield to possibly enhance your HUD experience, it isn’t a strict requirement. Many drivers find that a retrofitted HUD system works perfectly with their existing windshield.
