Imagine transforming a vintage Volvo into a time-traveling masterpiece with a dashboard straight out of a 1950s sci-fi dream. That’s exactly what [David Forbes] has done with his Nixie tube dashboard, and it’s nothing short of breathtaking. The Autopian boldly declares it “the coolest speedometer of all time,” but let’s be real—it’s not just a speedometer. This custom instrument cluster includes a tachometer, temperature gauge, oil pressure indicator, and voltmeter, all glowing with the retro charm of Nixie tubes. And this is the part most people miss: the entire setup could theoretically have been built back in the 1950s when the Volvo PV544 was new—though you’d probably need enough vacuum tubes to fill the trunk (or boot, if you’re across the pond).
Here’s how it works: [David] uses a mix of Nixie tubes, with the larger ones in the center dedicated to the speedometer and tachometer, while the oval tubes on either side handle the other gauges. A microcontroller mounted on the firewall acts as a modern ECU for the gauges, though the Volvo’s engine remains stock—carbureted, as you’d expect from a car of that era. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a purist’s nightmare or a genius fusion of old and new? Does preserving the car’s original mechanics while adding futuristic instrumentation honor its heritage or betray it?
What’s undeniable is the sheer craftsmanship and creativity behind this project. We’ve seen [David]’s work before, like his wearable video coat, but his Nixie Watch—famously worn by Steve Wozniak—remains his most iconic creation. This Volvo dashboard, however, might just steal the spotlight. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, proving that sometimes, the past and future can coexist beautifully.
Thought-provoking question for you: If you could retrofit any vintage vehicle with modern tech, what would it be, and where would you draw the line between preservation and innovation? Let us know in the comments!
Special thanks to [JohnU] for the tip, and all images courtesy of Griffin Riley via The Autopian.
