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Shifting the Paradigm: Volkswagen’s Move Toward Physical Controls
Is Euro NCAP’s approach nudging Volkswagen toward significant change? Or has Volkswagen initiated this evolution independently? The speculation surrounding these developments can be intriguing. However, Andreas Mindt, the chief designer at Volkswagen, recently expressed:
“From the ID.2all onward, we are committed to integrating physical buttons for critical functions—volume control, temperature settings for both sides of the vehicle, fan adjustments and hazard lights—located conveniently below the display screen. This implementation will be standard in every vehicle we produce moving forward. We will never repeat past missteps regarding interface design. Furthermore, our steering wheels will feature tangible buttons; there’s no room for ambiguity anymore. Users desire feedback; they appreciate real controls because a car is not just a smartphone.”
This sentiment resonates strongly with many enthusiasts who have long voiced their concerns since Tesla introduced touchscreen-based controls in vehicles.
A Focus on Essentials
An interesting observation arises from Mindt’s remarks—the critical functions he listed differ from those identified by Euro NCAP. While Euro NCAP emphasizes features vital during emergencies—the ability to respond quickly in crises—Volkswagen highlights everyday functionalities that drivers use frequently such as volume levels and climate control settings to ensure drivers remain focused on the road ahead while accessing these features easily. The solitary shared element between them was indeed the hazard lights; it is worth noting that Volkswagen appears keen to maintain physical mechanisms for essential operations like windshield wipers and turn signals.
Credit: Volkswagen – Image of ID .2all.
Pioneering a New Direction with ID .2all
This commitment to finding an effective balance between touch screens and traditional controls marks a new dawn with models starting from ID .2all (and it would be great if they could also revert back to using straightforward names for their models instead of obscure titles filled with punctuation). Users expect visually supported options like backup cameras in every modern automobile—suggesting that touch interfaces still play an integral part in automotive design going forward.
Mindt acknowledged this notion saying,” Numerous functionalities are necessary within specific regions’; therefore’, displays will have extensive human-machine interface [HMI] elements embedded within deeper system tiers.” He continued stressing “However,” rest assured “the five primary functions will consistently exist at an accessible level.” This practical approach seems not just logical—it undoubtedly aligns well with what many consumers desire when operating their vehicles.
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