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Future driver information systems will consist of a plurality of information components containing the classic instrumentation like instrument cluster, radio and trip computers but also new components like car telephones, navigation systems and TV. This development leads in a first step to a new kind of instrument cluster design, and in a second step to a rather high resolution graphic display, located in the central console region. To use best the display capabilities for all functions and to have an extendable system, the components will be connected by a multiplex wiring system. In order to reduce drivers distraction, secondary information from the mentioned components concerning safety and navigation information should be displayed near to the primary field of vision of the driver within the instrument cluster using small graphic LCD modules. Also in the non-visible region of the instrument cluster there will be significant changes in the technology behind the scales.

The present paper demonstrates the feasability of liquid crystal displays for automotive applications. It covers points of special interest in LCD characteristics such as contrast behaviour in comparison to active electronic display technologies and matching of LCD’s with mechanical instrumentation. Technological aspects are discussed e.g. contrast optimization with respect to the viewing area or switching behaviour. It also describes technical methods used to solve special automotive problems such as illumination, anti-reflection, driving and connecting techniques. Examples of applications are given for single stand alone instruments and complete dashboards as well.