In the rapidly evolving landscape of automotive design, sleek touchscreens and digital interfaces have become nearly ubiquitous. Yet, when it comes to safety and usability, traditional solutions sometimes surpass modern technology. Vehicles equipped with physical rotary controls enable consistently quicker temperature adjustments compared to their touchscreen counterparts.
Why do rotary controls stand out?
✅ Tactile Feedback: The tangible sensation of turning a dial allows for adjustments without the need to divert one's gaze from the road. This tactile feedback is crucial for maintaining the driver's attention where it matters most—on the task of driving.
✅ Ease of Use: Unlike touch controls, which often require navigating through menus, rotary controls are straightforward. A simple turn of the dial results in immediate action—no second-guessing, no delays.
✅ Reliability: With fewer layers of complexity, physical controls are less prone to failure. They're robust, enduring, and less likely to succumb to wear over time or software glitches.
Indeed, while touchscreens offer numerous advantages and a modern aesthetic, for certain applications, the ergonomics and safety of physical controls remain unparalleled.
As we embrace technological advancements, we must not lose sight of the primary goal of vehicle design: to enhance the driving experience without compromising safety.
The humble rotary dial—a simple yet ingenious design element that continues to stand the test of time.
I extend my sincere thanks to Tobii UK for allowing me to use the Tobii glasses eye tracker and for giving me this fantastic opportunity to test cars with top infotainment systems. This unique tool has been instrumental in providing clear insights into driver interactions and safety. This data snippet is part of a broader study, set to be fully published elsewhere.
*Plot twist: The Honda e:Ny1, the brand's first fully electric vehicle, features climate controls on the touchscreen 😊