Mitsubishi eX Concept Brings Augmented Reality To The Windshield

Mitsubishi isn't waiting until the Tokyo Motor Show later this month to announce it newest crossover SUV concept, the eX. While it may feature a somewhat edgy, futuristic exterior design that will surely be reeled-in before ever hitting a consumer vehicle, it's actually the technology on the inside that Mitsubishi is showing off. Instead of using a heads-up display that we're seeing more often in cars these days, the eX Concept features a windshield enhanced with augmented reality (AR).

The system aims to keep drivers' attention on the road ahead by taking information that is commonly displayed on dash-mounted navigation screens and projecting it forward into their field of view. This can include turn-by-turn navigation guides, warnings about drifting from the lane and upcoming traffic signs, as well as alerts about getting too close the vehicle ahead.

Mitsubishi has still put a display screen in the middle of the dashboard, however, calling it an Information Display (ID) that is used for information or entertainment not directly related to driving the vehicle. The ID connects to the cloud after pairing with a smartphone, and by using artificial intelligence the system can recommend destinations based on the driver's hobbies or interests.

The concept also uses cameras and displays to replace both the rearview and side-mounted mirrors. A screen in the overhead console shows what is behind the car, while smaller displays to the right and left behind the steering wheel show the side views.

As for the rest of the eX Concept, Mitsubishi has outfitted the vehicle with Twin Motor all-wheel drive, powered by a "high capacity" battery capable of trips up to 248 miles (400 km) on a single charge. Also unique about the design is the four-door setup with front and rear hinges, allowing the doors to swing open with a center pillar in between, making it easier to get in and out.

VIA Mashable