Lilliput RV18-50NP lets you get your shows on the road

So, talking on your cellphone while driving isn't risky enough for you? How about watching a flick? The Lilliput RV18-50NP is a 5-inch LCD display built into a rear view mirror, which is being marketed as being "perfect for viewing DVD movies, playing video games" and other such uses. Actually, the Lilliput can be useful; when connected to its included backup camera it can help you get a better view when backing up your car. However, judging from the way it's being marketed, it seems like that's not its top use — unless, that is, you really do need to avoid crushing C-3PO as you back up your ride. (Come to think of it, maybe you should just turn the thing off and crush the old tin windbag, eh?)

[Via TRFJ]

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

There are ones that I would deem more "appropriate". When I was looking for one, I came across one that had a 1 inch lcd on the right side of the mirror and the rest was mirror. This was is too little mirror for my liking.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

what happened to just enjoying music while driving?

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

"what happened to just enjoying music while driving?"

Agreed, or even books on tape for long drives. And it's not as if people aren't still getting into accidents just adjusting the radio on occasion. Now they wanna watch DVD's and satellite TV ? Why are people going out ? It sounds like they'd be much more comfortable just staying home with the tube...er...panel and the fridge...

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

Time goes by faster with video. I drove to Rochester, NY from va beach, va and back this weekend and its about a 10 hr drive. When I can count my driving time by west wing episodes, life is much more pleasant.(I have a flip out screen). Traffic was even enjoyable as i pulled out my subway sandwich, my favorite drink(grape juice), rolled up windows, turned on the AC, and just enjoyed the episode as we moved very very very slowly. :)

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 2nd 2007 4:13PM]

Well, I don't have a rearview mirror because I have no way to use it in a cargo truck. This little device is just what I need to not just see rearward while backing up but most importantly to see the folks who so helpfully and invisibly hide right behind me while driving. Not a problem till they quickly emerge to pass which is why it'd be much safer to know they're tucked in back there in the first place. I like to get home without squashing someone like a bug. This is just what I need.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

When I read this article one word comes to my mind... SAFETY... There is a huge safety risk with this device... Cellphones, Navigation Systems, CD Players, Food, TVs in the dashboard are all major risks on the roads these days and this device is just going to make the list longer... Plus, why not spend the few hundred dollars more and put two small LCD screens on the back headrests...

I agree with TheCheeks when they say what happened to music while driving...

If you really want to watch a movie or TV show while driving then you should have two things. You should have a second driver and you should have LCD screen TVs in the BACK.. So when you get tired and want to relax back and eat you can stop the car at a service station and switch seats... Plus, in the back you will have more room and will be more comfortable.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

When I read this article one word comes to my mind... SAFETY... There is a huge safety risk with this device... Cellphones, Navigation Systems, CD Players, Food, TVs in the dashboard are all major risks on the roads these days and this device is just going to make the list longer... Plus, why not spend the few hundred dollars more and put two small LCD screens on the back headrests...

I agree with TheCheeks when they say what happened to music while driving...

If you really want to watch a movie or TV show while driving then you should have two things. You should have a second driver and you should have LCD screen TVs in the BACK.. So when you get tired and want to relax back and eat you can stop the car at a service station and switch seats... Plus, in the back you will have more room and will be more comfortable.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

This would be illegal in Oregon I think. You cannot have any video that the driver can see.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

While driving at night I watch a movie on my laptop. I put the laptop between the seats and adjust the screen so that I can see the reflection in the front windshield. This is awesome since your eyes are always on the road as well as the movie :) ... too bad it only works at night

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

I thought it is illegal in most states to have video where the driver can view it....

Sounds incredibly STUPID to me (and I'd love to sue the buzzard that rear-ends me with one of these playing...)

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

"Don't back up there. It's much too rocky."

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

Useless gadget

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

Hah now that is clever Samir. Just hope there aren't any subtitles.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

To the two people who posted about watching TV while driving: stop. You could get yourself or another killed.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:36AM]

fake