Speedometer Demo: Measuring Speed with ESP32 and Ultrasonic Sensing

by hvivanion Posted on
At Pacific Custom Engineering, we’re passionate about turning creative ideas into functional prototypes using accessible, reliable components.
Check out this fun and practical Speedometer Demo we recently built and shared! In the video, you’ll see a compact speedometer in action — powered by an ESP32 microcontroller.

It uses an HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor to detect movement (such as a waving hand, spinning object, or passing item) by measuring rapid changes in distance over time. The calculated speed is then displayed clearly on an LCD1602 I2C display for real-time feedback.

Key highlights of the build:

  • ESP32 — The brain of the project, handling timing, calculations, and display control with plenty of processing power and GPIO flexibility.
  • HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor — Provides non-contact distance measurements up to several meters, perfect for speed detection without physical contact.
  • LCD1602 I2C Display — Simple, low-pin-count way to show speed readings (in km/h, mph, or custom units) with clear visibility.
  • USB Charging Data Cable (540° Rotation – 3.3ft Red with 3 magnetic tips) — Makes testing and connections effortless. The magnetic tips allow quick, secure attachments during prototyping and debugging — no more fumbling with loose wires!

This project demonstrates how everyday sensors can create interactive, real-world applications — from educational tools and interactive exhibits to potential uses in robotics, conveyor monitoring, or fun maker gadgets.

The complete ESP32 code is open-source and available on GitHub https://github.com/PacificCustomEngineering/ESP32-Speedometer. 

ESP32 Pin layout

#define TRIG_A 5
#define ECHO_A 18
#define TRIG_B 32
#define ECHO_B 34
#define BUZZER_PIN 27
Feel free to fork it, modify the units/formulas, or adapt it for your own projects!
We’re always experimenting with new sensor integrations and custom electronics.
Interested in a similar build, custom firmware, or a full prototype? Reach out — we’d love to collaborate.
Stay tuned for more demos and tutorials from Pacific Custom Engineering!
#ESP32 #MakerProjects #UltrasonicSensor #Prototyping #Electronics

Discover more from Pacific Custom Engineering

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a Reply