Oversized screens in vehicles impact every driver, either directly or indirectly. Even if you’ve promised yourself to never purchase a car with a tablet on the dashboard, you’re still sharing the road with people who have already made that choice. You may blame them, but it’s not solely their fault that modern cars have replaced tactile buttons with distracting displays. It’s created quite a situation, originating from automakers providing features that weren’t even solicited.
My supervisor Kyle explored the history of car screens in The Drive’s latest YouTube video, beginning with the 1986 Buick Riviera. This GM E-Body car was remarkably ahead of its era, and while it was the first mass-produced vehicle to feature a touchscreen, there wasn’t much demand for it. Flash forward three decades and they’re ubiquitous. What shifted? Quite a bit.
Initially, we didn’t have anything comparable to an iPhone when the Riviera aimed to impress middle-class homes with the graphic control interface. This everyday technology quickly accustomed people to touchscreens like never before. As these screens became more common (i.e., produced in larger quantities), their costs diminished. Automotive manufacturers appreciate that aspect even more than consumers do, so after several models like the second-gen Prius demonstrated that individuals could adapt to screens in their daily vehicles, the mass movement away from buttons commenced.
Here we are today, with screens replacing physical controls and displays across every vehicle type. Want a $300,000 super SUV? Screens are marketed as luxury features. Looking for a $30,000 commuter with a warranty and little else? Yet, somehow, you still receive a display that rivals the luxury of a CEO’s Bentley. This is primarily because digital displays help automotive brands cut costs.
It’s also challenging for a manufacturer to serve pop-up advertisements to customers without screens. Don’t even get me started on that.
For the complete narrative, simply view the video embedded at the start of this blog.
Interested in seeing more content like this? Take a look at our YouTube channel! You might have thought it was inactive, and it was… for a few years. We’re back now, sharing stories like these along with some cool high-performance driving explainers.
### The Expansion of Large Screens in Automotive Dashboards: A Study
In recent years, the automotive sector has experienced a substantial change in vehicle interior design, especially concerning dashboard arrangements. One of the most striking trends is the growing occurrence of large screens in automotive dashboards. This change is not just superficial; it signifies broader technological developments, shifting consumer desires, and the changing nature of vehicle capabilities.
#### Technological Developments
The adoption of large screens in dashboards is largely driven by progress in display technology. High-definition LCD and OLED screens have become more economical and adaptable, enabling manufacturers to integrate larger displays without sacrificing quality. These screens offer vivid colors, clear images, and enhanced visibility under diverse lighting situations. Additionally, touch-screen functionalities have improved user interaction, allowing both drivers and passengers to manage various vehicle features effortlessly.
#### Improved User Experience
Large screens provide a more intuitive and engaging interaction experience. They act as central hubs for infotainment, navigation, and vehicle diagnostics. By amalgamating multiple functionalities into a single interface, manufacturers can decrease clutter and streamline the driving experience. Attributes like split-screen displays permit users to access navigation and media concurrently, improving convenience and safety.
Moreover, the rise of smartphone integration technologies, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, has escalated the need for larger displays. These systems necessitate ample display real estate to operate efficiently, enabling users to mirror their mobile devices and access applications seamlessly.
#### Aesthetic Appeal and Personalization
The visual attractiveness of large screens is significant. Contemporary consumers increasingly value design and technology in their vehicle decisions. Large, sleek displays create a futuristic and high-tech atmosphere within the vehicle, resonating with the preferences of technology-oriented buyers. Furthermore, numerous manufacturers provide customizable interfaces, allowing users to personalize their dashboard displays per their preferences, thereby further enhancing the allure of large screens.
#### Safety Issues
While large screens improve functionality and aesthetics, they also pose safety challenges. The possibility of driver distraction is a notable concern, as larger displays may promote increased interaction while driving. To counteract this, manufacturers are incorporating features like voice recognition, steering wheel controls, and haptic feedback to reduce distractions. Additionally, many systems are designed to limit certain capabilities while the vehicle is moving, ensuring that drivers stay focused on the road.
#### Market Trends and Consumer Choices
The appeal of large screens in automotive dashboards is mirrored in market trends. According to industry analyses, the global automotive display market is projected to expand significantly, driven by the growing adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and the emergence of electric and autonomous vehicles. Consumers are becoming more inclined toward vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology, and large screens are increasingly becoming standard features in mid-range and luxury models.
#### Conclusion
The surge of large screens in automotive dashboards symbolizes a convergence of technology, design, and consumer demand. As vehicles become more interconnected and integrated with digital environments, the role of large displays will keep evolving. While concerns regarding safety and driver distraction persist, the advantages of improved functionality and user experience are propelling this trend forward. As the automotive industry continues to innovate, large screens are expected to remain a defining element of modern vehicles, influencing the future of in-car technology.