A system for displaying an external view of a vehicle is provided. The system may comprise a video camera for capturing images external to the vehicle and a display for displaying the images for the vehicle operator. The camera is powered by electrically connecting it to the reverse lamp power line and is operable to continuously capture images when powered. The camera may be mounted in a license plate frame to further simplify installation. The camera may communicate with the display through a wireless connection. The receiver and display may be mounted in the field of view of the vehicle operator, such as on the dashboard of the vehicle.