Vehicle Windshields: Panasonic Head-Up Display Technology
The Panasonic Head-Up Display Technology will definitely the change the way we repair, replace and price out windshield repairs and replacement. Because of its use of artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) the Head’s Up Display (HUD) provides a guidance route for navigation, cyclist detection, speed, underpass measurement, and the road’s speed limit.
Dashboards: Mercedes-Benz Hyperscreen
The Mercedes-Benz MBUX Hyperscreen acts like a high-tech brain of the car that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) that is actually capable of “learning” by adapting to its user. It can actually make personalized suggestions for infotainment, vehicle functions, and comfort. The Hyperscreen is actually three (3) seamlessly displays that are merged together run over the entire width of the dashboard area.
The very cool display also includes software that evaluates map data and its surroundings to provide information about interesting landmarks or shops along a given route. It can also automatically display more than 20 other functions for passengers and drivers with the help of AI.
Auto Manufacturers
At this year’s CES EV’s were all the rage. Virtually every manufacturer from Mercedes Benz, BMW, Chrysler, General Motors, Volvo and even SONY announced new EV’s at the show. BMW also announced iX Flow, featuring E-Ink a vehicle wrap that can change colors. Here is a link to a video outlining these announcements and more: https://youtu.be/3uj_UoeX7Bg
ADAS Technologies
LiDAR is just starting to make inroads into consumer vehicles. At this year’s CES several companies introduced “mini-LiDAR systems” or SOC’s (system on a chip) that reduce the size and cost of LiDAR systems. Here is a link to a video on the “view” these new LiDAR systems can generate: https://youtu.be/TB320pN947Y
Today’s vehicles are turning into “computers on wheels”. Today’s and tomorrow’s auto collision, repair and glass replacement businesses will either become ADAS, technology and calibration proficient, possibly licensed or sublet these operations to third parties.
Whatever the case, the ADAS repair and calibration business opportunities will be huge in the near future!