Hyundai Design Chief Questions the Necessity of In-Car Touchscreens
Hyundai's design philosophy is undergoing a significant shift, as the company's head designer, Simon Loasby, is re-evaluating the widespread use of touchscreens in vehicle interiors. This movement away from extensive digital interfaces prioritizes user preference for physical controls and a safer driving experience. Hyundai, with its Concept Three and upcoming Ioniq 9, is leading the charge in exploring alternative interior designs, signaling a potential trend for the automotive industry.
Hyundai Rethinks Interior Design: A Shift Away from Touchscreens
In a recent discourse with Auto Express, Simon Loasby, the influential head of Hyundai's design center in Korea, raised a poignant question about the ubiquitous presence of touchscreens in modern vehicle cabins: 'Why do we need a screen?' This query highlights a growing sentiment that, despite technological advancements, many consumers still favor the tactile feedback and intuitive operation of physical buttons for critical in-car functions. Loasby pointed out that drivers often express frustration with navigating through multiple layers of digital menus for tasks such as adjusting volume, controlling heating and ventilation, or managing media playback. He emphasized that the focus should not be on justifying the existence of buttons, but rather on questioning the fundamental necessity of screens when alternative, more user-friendly methods exist. Hyundai's forward-thinking Concept Three, while not entirely devoid of displays, exemplifies this refreshed approach. Its interior design incorporates smaller, strategically placed screens near the steering wheel, complemented by a row of accessible physical buttons on the dashboard. This design choice aligns with Hyundai's commitment to safety, as articulated by Loasby at the launch of the Ioniq 9 at last year's Los Angeles Auto Show. He stressed the importance of keeping drivers' eyes on the road, ensuring that frequently used controls are readily available through physical interfaces, thereby reducing distractions. This vision is not exclusive to Hyundai; other prominent automakers, such as Cadillac, are also venturing into post-touchscreen interior concepts. Cadillac's latest autonomous concept, for instance, foregoes a central touchscreen in favor of a dashboard-spanning display and an integrated screen within the steering wheel, indicating a broader industry interest in innovating beyond current touchscreen-centric designs. The industry is also exploring enhanced voice control systems, leveraging artificial intelligence for improved functionality, and augmented-reality head-up displays that project information directly onto the windshield. These developments collectively suggest a future where automotive interiors are reimagined to be less distracting and more driver-centric, responding directly to consumer demand for a blend of advanced technology and ergonomic practicality.
This re-evaluation of interior design, championed by figures like Simon Loasby, represents a crucial step toward creating safer and more intuitive driving environments. By listening to consumer feedback and prioritizing physical controls for frequently used functions, automakers can design cabins that minimize distraction and enhance the overall driving experience. The move away from an over-reliance on touchscreens could signal a new era of automotive interior innovation, where practicality and driver well-being take precedence alongside cutting-edge technology.