Roadmaster scrolling LEDs enable artistic license

Now you have an alternative to your programmable VW bumper sticker if you want to communicate digitally with other road users. Roadmaster has unveiled two scrolling LED message systems that enable drivers to program up to 99 preset messages and five user-edited messages to share with other drivers. The system comes in two models: the Roadmaster Scrolling Digital License Plate Frame, and the Scrolling Rear Deck Message System, which sits on the car's parcel shelf; both are priced at $69.

Preset words and phrases can be called up using numbers on the systems' TV-like remote controls. According to Roadmaster, stock messages include "help me," "slow down," "turning left," and "your lights aren't working". For more creative souls, the displays can be used to show off your favorite aphorism, sports-team message, or greeting. To ensure that the latter remain decent, Roadmaster has fitted the systems with a "profanity filter", which displays a select number of words as ****.

This seems a little prudish to us: I mean, come on, how the **** are you supposed tell other drivers what you really want to say?

[techmonkey]

Saw this on an SUV - Neat for Advertising

Personally, any use of this product OTHER than for advertising is pretty lame.

I saw one of these scrolling LED license plates about 2 months ago on an SUV...it was advertising the services the person does, along with a phone number to call.

For those purposes its a cheap alternative. Eye catching and cool.

If you just want to scroll lame-a#$ messages, dont bother...you're the one going to look lame.

[techmonkey]

Saw this on an SUV - Neat for Advertising

Personally, any use of this product OTHER than for advertising is pretty lame.

I saw one of these scrolling LED license plates about 2 months ago on an SUV...it was advertising the services the person does, along with a phone number to call.

For those purposes its a cheap alternative. Eye catching and cool.

If you just want to scroll lame-a#$ messages, dont bother...you're the one going to look lame.

[jeroethel]

Something else to distract people

Just what we need -- "sorry I hit you, I was programming my message center to complement you on your breasts".

[jeroethel]

Something else to distract people

Just what we need -- "sorry I hit you, I was programming my message center to complement you on your breasts".

[jbell94521]

Where Can We Get These?

I think if used judiciously, they could actually improve safety. For example, I put on my left turn signal to change lanes on a crowded freeway. I am having trouble merging in. Now I display the message: "May I?" Maybe the driver in the other lane backs off a bit to give me room. Perhaps wishful thinking, but I feel like it is worth a try. So where can I get one?

[jbell94521]

Where Can We Get These?

I think if used judiciously, they could actually improve safety. For example, I put on my left turn signal to change lanes on a crowded freeway. I am having trouble merging in. Now I display the message: "May I?" Maybe the driver in the other lane backs off a bit to give me room. Perhaps wishful thinking, but I feel like it is worth a try. So where can I get one?