Springteq brings first car navigator with HUD

Taiwanese company Springteq is showing off a unique in-car navigation device that uses a heads-up display to provide visual navigation information. Its WeGo HUD Navigator throws up a virtual readout onto the windshield of the car, which drivers can read without taking their eyes of the road. The eyes' focus needs to change, however, as the information appears about 3.3 feet in front of the driver.

Control over the navigator is accomplished thanks to an RF-based wireless remote control that attaches to the steering wheel. This interface helps keep driver distraction to a minimum, Springteq figures.

The main unit is a projector that mounts on the dash and throws up a 4.5-inch image with a 400x240 resolution and 13,000cd/m2 brightness, while contrast is 500:1. These specs are good enough to be viewed in direct sunlight, Springteq says. A light sensor will adjust brightness accordingly for night viewing.

Power comes from a car's auxiliary jack, though there doesn't seem to be an option for a more invisible and permanent mounting option. The WeGo runs on Windows CE and there is 2GB of onboard memory along with an SDHC card slot.

A smaller WeGo mini is also under development. It produces a smaller, 3.5-inch, 320x240 image and has a lower 10,000cd/m2 brightness rating.

Shipping and pricing details are expected to be announced late this year, as Springteq is looking for a partner before it markets the devices. [via Gizmag]

By Electronista Staff