HD Slow in Making its Way into Our Cars
Even with the massive explosion of high definition television, Blu-ray movies, video games and even mobile phones, the growth of HD in the auto market has been next to nothing. Because of costs and lack of demand – so far – the HD revolution hasn’t taken foot in the growing car-based video market.
You’d be hard pressed to drive a few miles these days without seeing someone with the proverbial drop-down video screens that now come next to standard on many family vehicles. Car manufacturers have recognized the hot family market and the need to occupy the kiddos on that long road trip, or even just to the supermarket across town. Video in the car is here to stay but why hasn’t HD-quality video been a mainstay there?
In a simple word: demand.
Most in-car video systems come standard from car dealers. Whether it’s General Motors, Honda or Toyota, the systems in most cars are built to satisfy the kids in the family. Standard definition DVDs and other programing are the key focus for these systems. They are not built for the videophile looking for the best in resolution, color and sound.
There are, of course, examples contrary to that but overall these systems are built as family workhorses to keep the kids as quiet as possible while on the road.
Also consider this: most of those people who would demand HD for their entertainment are behind the wheel or in the passenger seat. That means standard definition in the car is the standard and no one is clamoring for more expensive and better quality products.
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