Chinese Brand Transforms Windshield into a Massive Head-Up Display | Carscoops

      Xpeng collaborated with Huawei to develop the AR-HUD system for an advanced driving experience.

      This head-up display will be introduced in the upcoming Xpeng G7, which is anticipated to be priced below $35,000.

      Reports suggest that the new G7 will be available with at least two battery pack options. Other manufacturers, such as Audi and Mercedes, already provide augmented reality head-up displays.

      Electric vehicles have quickly transformed into technological showcases, and Xpeng's latest model appears set to elevate that trend further. The Chinese company is gearing up to launch its new G7 electric SUV, featuring a head-up display named “Light-Chasing Panoramic Display,” which goes beyond a traditional speedometer. This advanced AR system, co-developed with Huawei, is powered by artificial intelligence.

      Instead of the typical HUD functions like speed monitoring, radio stations, or current songs playing, the G7's setup utilizes augmented reality to project layered graphics directly onto the driver’s view of the road. Many Chinese EVs already resemble smartphones on wheels, and this system enhances that concept.

      Enhanced Navigation

      The new head-up display was showcased at a recent media event in China, making a striking impression. It reportedly spans almost the entire windshield, offering the visual equivalent of an 87-inch ultra-large screen with a contrast ratio of 1,800:1. Images released by the company demonstrate how it integrates augmented reality into the driving experience, projecting overlays onto the road ahead seamlessly.

      It's important to note that augmented reality head-up displays are not entirely novel; multiple automakers have offered similar systems for several years. Mercedes-Benz was the pioneer, launching its system in the current S-Class, which is among the most sophisticated available. However, Xpeng's system seems to advance the technology further and will debut in a vehicle significantly more affordable than the S-Class.

      The First Xpeng Featuring an AR-HUD

      The expected starting price for the new Xpeng G7 in China is around 250,000 yuan, translating to approximately $34,800 at current exchange rates. While detailed technical specifications haven't been fully disclosed, it is reported to come with two distinct battery pack options. The base model may include a single electric motor providing 292 hp (218 kW), allowing the SUV to reach a top speed of 125 mph (202 km/h).

      In terms of design, the G7 takes inspiration from the Kia EV6 but offers a higher stance. It features sharp LED daytime running lights at the front for a sportier look, while the rear is equipped with sleek LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar. The overall design is clean yet relatively understated, appearing more focused on blending in rather than standing out in China's increasingly competitive EV market.