Rather than a single 'best', dealerships need a small portfolio: a long-throw facade unit, a weatherproof forecourt unit, and a light indoor accent. Here is how to assemble that set for 2026.
The facade unit
For the showroom face 30–80 m away, pick a 200–400 W weatherproof unit with a medium-throw lens and IP65. Prioritise a sharp optic and a matched single-colour LED for a clean marque.
The forecourt unit
A lower, robust unit projecting the badge onto the ground pad near the entrance. Weatherproof, narrow beam to avoid road glare, and a duty-rated driver for night-long operation.
The service-bay unit
Often the same class as the forecourt but aimed at the service drive. If the bay is covered, an indoor-rated unit is fine and cheaper.
Indoor accent
A cool, low-power static logo on a pillar or floor inside the showroom. No weather rating needed; focus on crispness and quiet operation.
2026 buying priorities
Rank these when comparing:
- IP rating matched to mount location.
- Lens sharpness at your throw distance.
- Duty cycle / MTBF for 24/7 use.
- Standardised gobo + matched LED for group consistency.
- Supplier proof and reorder support.
Sample portfolio
One mid-size lot might use:
| Job | Class | Qty |
|---|
| Facade | 200–400 W, IP65 | 1–2 |
| Forecourt pad | Mid-power, IP65 | 1 |
| Service drive | Indoor/outdoor | 1 |
| Indoor accent | Low-power | 2–3 |
Common questions
What is the best gobo projector for a dealership in 2026?
There is no single best — assemble a set: a 200–400 W IP65 facade unit, a weatherproof forecourt unit, and a light indoor accent, all sharing one standardised gobo.
How many units for one lot?
Typically 4–7: facade (1–2), forecourt (1), service (1), and a few indoor accents, scaled to site size.
IP65 or IP67 for outdoors?
IP65 for elevated, sheltered facade mounts; IP67 for low or washdown-exposed forecourt units.
Should the indoor unit be weatherproof?
No — indoor accents can use lighter, quieter, non-weatherproof units and save budget.
How do I future-proof the buy?
Standardise gobo artwork and matched LED now so reorders and new sites stay consistent as the range evolves.
What spec matters most at distance?
Lens sharpness at your actual throw — brightness without a good optic just makes a bright blur.
Need help specifying this?
Send us the throw distance, the image size you need and your artwork — we will recommend the right model and quote within 24 hours.
