Application of OLED displays in automobiles

The vehicles we use today only vaguely resemble those used by our grandparents and great-grandparents. Technology has transformed travel into a safe, fast and modern experience.

Engines are more efficient, driver assistance systems have emerged, as well as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth integration. OLED displays in automotive applications have improved the way we see information on the dashboard. But this is just the beginning of how technology has changed our driving experience.

OLED displays in the automotive industry

The size of displays in vehicles is growing. OLED technology is helping automakers reduce the weight that this change causes. This is a major advantage in the automotive industry, where every kilogram saved increases range.

All of these features contribute to the development of battery electric vehicles; they increase the range of the vehicle without increasing battery capacity.

With a curved screen with a small radius, it is possible to create innovative dashboards that define the brand’s identity. The bezel disappears into the vehicle’s black finish. Using less plastic than comparable LCD displays, OLED is a greener option.

How do OLED displays in cars work?

OLED technology: what is it? The displays use organic LEDs. The pixels consist of three sub-pixels in red, green and blue, which are illuminated separately without the use of a backlight. As a result, the colors displayed are vivid and blacks are deep.

An OLED display consists of several layers: substrate, anode, organic layers, conductive layer, emitter layer and cathode. When an electric current is applied, electrons flow from the cathode to the anode through the emitter layer. The organic molecules are excited and emit light, returning to their ground state.

Advantages of OLED displays over traditional LCD displays

In OLED displays, each pixel produces its own light. Unlike LCD screens, they do not require a backlight. Turning off individual pixels ensures high contrast and vivid colors.

The improved contrast makes images more vivid and easier to see. In addition, OLED displays offer better viewing angles. Colors remain consistent when viewed at extreme angles.

OLED vs. LCD: A Comparison

Check out the comparison of OLED and LCD displays in automobiles before you choose the perfect solution for your application:

• OLED displays offer a much higher contrast ratio than LCD displays.
• LCD displays have lower power consumption , because they use a backlight to illuminate the screen. This process requires less energy than the individual pixels in an automotive OLED display.
• Both displays offer good color accuracy, but OLED displays are generally considered superior.
• LCD displays generally have a longer lifespan than OLED displays. Backlights can last tens of thousands of hours, while organic compounds degrade over time.
• OLED displays generally cost more than LCDs because their production is more complex and requires advanced technology.

Examples of the use of OLED displays on the dashboard

Many cars now use OLED screens to display speedometer, tachometer, clock and mileage. The information is readable even on a sunny day. Vibrant colors and deep blacks enhance navigation and entertainment systems.

With the in-car touchscreen, drivers can adjust the climate control and audio system without touching physical buttons. This makes it easier to operate from the seat. The interface becomes more intuitive; it is possible to choose the information displayed and how it is presented.

How do OLED displays improve driving safety?

The high contrast of the car’s OLED display provides excellent visibility at night, in a dark tunnel and on a sunny day. Important information is readable at any time of day. Warnings about lane departure or an impending collision appear immediately , so that the driver can react to dangerous situations. High-quality OLED displays and a well-organized interface reduce the time the driver takes his eyes off the road.