Continental is equipping the tenth-generation Mercedes Benz E-Class with two wide screen, high-resolution displays that appear to be a single unit.

In addition to their own home and day-to-day place of work, for more and more people the car is becoming another living space, in which they attach importance to high-quality interiors. To fulfill this requirement, for the first time the international technology company Continental is equipping the tenth-generation Mercedes Benz E-Class with two wide screen, high-resolution displays that appear to be a single unit. As a central element of the vehicle interior, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Dual Display elegantly combines two screens in one module and enables the driver to receive information intuitively. “We are constantly working on new, exciting user concepts to ensure that drivers receive relevant information that has been optimally prepared. Screens in particular play a central role for the human-machine interface. With our Dual Display, which is being used in volume production of the Mercedes Benz E-Class for the first time, we have created a unique selling proposition in this segment,” says Dr Frank Rabe, Head of the Instrumentation & Driver HMI Business Unit at Continental.

Two become one

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Dual Display offers drivers real added value because it makes information and other content intuitively perceptible. This means the implemented display options are easier to understand than conventional alternatives. For example, if required, visual pointer instruments can make space for large-scale, added-value information. The solution comprises two large, 12.3-inch (display size: 31.2 cm) screens with a high resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels, resulting in a technical revolution in the vehicle interior. One display replaces the conventional instrument cluster and its analogue instruments, while a central display is mounted above the center console. The displays offer realistic effects and high-quality graphics, which perform cross-fading at high image-build up speeds.

Both modules become real eye-catching features due to an integrated cover glass surface, thanks to which they appear to merge into one wide screen display without a visually disruptive connection and to float in front of the dashboard. The discrete and functional screen design fits seamlessly into the attractive vehicle environment.

This is enhanced by the option for the driver to choose between three designs to customise how content is displayed on the screen. For example, a driver could hide the rev counter and replace it with other information such as navigation maps. At the same time, it is ensured that safety-relevant information is displayed under all operating conditions. The electronics used to generate the graphics for the instrument cluster display are integrated in the Dual Display, while the central display is passively controlled by the head unit. “The dual display offers drivers of the new E-Class a brand-new user experience. New display and customisation options turn human-machine communication into a real experience,” summarises Dr Rabe.

HD Displays: Features

The solution comprises two large, 12.3-inch (display size: 31.2 cm) screens with a high resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels, resulting in a technical revolution in the vehicle interior. One display replaces the conventional instrument cluster and its analogue instruments, while a central display is mounted above the center console. The displays offer realistic effects and high-quality graphics, which perform cross-fading at high image-build up speeds.