During the 1980s, this display began to be used for automotive applications, especially where car makers were dabbling with digital displays for vehicle instruments like the speedometer and odometer. A good example of these were the high-end Subaru cars made in the early 1980s (referred to by Subaru enthusiasts as a digi-dash, or digital dashboard). The brightness of VFDs makes them well suited for use in the automotive industry. Current models of Renault MPV, Scenic and Espace both use VFD panels to show all functions on the dashboard including the radio and multi message panel.They are bright enough to read in full sunlight as well as dimmable for use at night. This panel uses four colours; the usual blue/green as well as deep blue, red and yellow/orange.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vacuum_fluorescent_display |