Due to the growing use of electronics in automobiles, displays used in vehicles are multi-functional, providing safety indications, energy information, entertainment, and other conveniences while driving. In-car navigation is becoming more prevalent around the globe, as it enables safer driving by allowing drivers to focus on the road, and saves time by allowing drivers to avoid traffic and accidents.

“The demand for automotive monitors continues to increase as displays play a growing role in an increasing number of applications for automobiles,” noted Hiroshi Hayase, NPD DisplaySearch Vice President of Small/Medium Display Research. “With the growing production of hybrid and electric vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf, we forecast strong growth for this segment.”

With increased performance requirements, including higher resolution and wider color gamut for maps and other information, TFT LCDs are gaining ground over passive matrix displays for console applications.

Japanese LCD manufacturers such as Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba are focused on the development of TFT LCDs for automotive monitors because of their ability to produce high-quality small/medium displays and the higher profit margin potential. In this segment, Sharp led in 2011 with a 24.5% share, followed by Sony with an 18.9% share and Toshiba with a 14.7% share.

Figure 2: LCD Supplier Market Share by Manufacturer (Shipments)