Within our previous articles on the subject of organic light-emitting diodes (or OLEDs), we talked time and time again about the fact that these particular solutions would most likely represent the future of display solutions, the first commercially-available consumer electronics to incorporate OLED screens being already available on the market. However, it would seem that, soon enough, this type of displays will tackle a whole different segment as well, namely that of automobiles.

And that's because a German association of companies actively involved in OLED-related research (known as CARO, from Car OLED) has come up with a very interesting concept, namely an OLED display placed right in the middle of the steering wheel.

As we all know only too well, in today’s vehicles, liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are widely used in the instrument cluster, the central infotainment, and the climate control unit. In nearly every vehicle, the emblem of the corresponding car manufacturer is integrated in the central position of the steering-wheel and placing an OLED display in that particular location would open up a variety of new ideas and concepts for interior designers.

Due to the thin construction depth of OLED displays, the integration of other components into the steering-wheel will not be influenced (enough space for installing the airbag will remain under the display). Plus, since OLEDs are also used as lighting solutions, by opening the car doors, the OLED might be activated and light up the emblem of the car manufacturer. If the ignition is switched on, the emblem will be dimmed or completely switched off. Furthermore, the display could be used to show warning instructions during the drive or take over further functions of today’s instrument clusters.

Indeed, the concept developed by Optrex Europe GmbH, Fraunhofer IPMS and G.Pollmann GmbH is a very interesting one, and, with the proper implementation, it could prove to be very successful with car makers and customers alike.


We are just a few, but there are many of you, Softpedia users, out there. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to create an email address for you to help us a little in finding gadgets we missed. Interesting links are bound to be posted with recognition going mainly to those who submit. The address is .