The sophisticated projection...

The sophisticated projection system has been squeezed into a device so small it will fit into the slimmest dash unit of the most compact models.

Until now, HUDs were restricted to luxury cars as only their deep dashes were big enough to accommodate the network of mirrors needed to beam the speed data on to the windscreen. But scientists at Siemens VDO have worked out how to cut the number of mirrors so they fit into a small unit.

Specially designed lenses mean the mini-HUD still creates a sharp coloured image of the speedo, measuring up to 20cm across, that looks as if it"s floating above the bonnet at a distance of about two metres.

Now, it"s hoped manufacturers will start offering the system as an option on all cars to improve safety. An HUD lets the driver concentrate on traffic without having to look away from the road to glance at the speedo - an action that otherwise takes one second. The new mini-HUDs are adaptable, so drivers can adjust the viewing display to suit their seating position.