Ultraminiature laser display technology provider MicroVision Inc. has announced its entrance into a development agreement with a major automotive manufacturer to incorporate its PicoP head-up display (PicoHUD) technology into its test vehicles. The first agreement of its kind for the company, the deal offers a path toward commercialization for the PicoHUD technology inside a mass-production car model targeted for introduction in 2014. MicroVision and its Tier 1 supplier will work together to develop advanced HUD prototypes that include the next-generation PicoP display engine based on direct green lasers. The prototypes are intended for installation in early test vehicles for specific upcoming models already identified on the automobile manufacturer’s production road map. It is anticipated that the first phase will be followed by a series of milestones that may result in introduction of the HUD into a production vehicle. At the request of the partner, its name, the name of its Tier 1 supplier and other details of the contract are being withheld. MicroVision’s PicoHUD technology allows information such as vehicle monitoring, navigation, radio controls and other information to be projected directly onto the windshield of a vehicle. With critical information being displayed within the driver’s direct line of sight, distractions caused by looking down at center console panels or instrument clusters are eliminated. MicroVision also is collaborating with Pioneer Corp., which intends to commercialize its aftermarket automotive HUD based on PicoP technology in 2012. For more information, visit: www.microvision.com