Every tech generation has examples of hardware ahead of its time. The 1991 Buick Reatta is a brilliant example of this phenomenon. This American made luxury vehicle was loaded with features, including pop-up headlights. However, the most intriguing part of the vehicle has to be the built-in touch screen CRT. The touch screen has an overlay on the screen that allows for the user to navigate the custom user interface. The UI is loaded with commands which can be used to control the radio functions, record custom messages, fill in a calendar, check vehicle systems, and much more. This screen was included standard in the 1991 Reatta. It can also be found on Reattas from 1990 and 1989, so if you find the vehicle from that period, it should have the CRT.
I had the opportunity to get an up-close demonstration of this rare CRT on a 1991 Buick Reatta at the Retro World Expo in Hartford, Connecticut. The owner, Steve walks us through the UI and the CRT. It was not only impressive to see this technology, but having a fully working model to review was a real treat. Check out the video to see some incredible tech hardware that is still ahead of its time.
