Carmakers who thought that touchscreens are the future, are starting to double back. The clearest case is with the all-new ID. Polo—Volkswagen’s newest EV that brings back tactile buttons and switches. It will definite the interior concept of upcoming Volkswagen EV models moving forward.
The ID. Polo offers physical buttons and newly-structured screens that run their next-generation software.
According to Volkswagen, clear physical buttons provide “stability and trust.” The multi-functional steering wheel features clearly-structure button fields, while separate buttons for climate functions and the hazard warning lights are integrated into a strip below the infotainment screen. There’s even a rotary controller positioned between the smartphone tray and cup holders for volume adjustment.
Of course, like other modern cars, Volkswagen will continue with screens. Here, however, they haven’t been blown out of proportion. Two large displays—10.25-inch for the driver and 12.9-inch for the infotainment—are placed in a single line of sight. They contain high-resolution graphics making it easily accessible for both the driver and the front passenger.
The interactive light strip called ID.Light continues the ID. Polo and extends not only across the width of the instrument panel at the base of the windshield, but also into the front doors for the first time.
Along with the return of physical buttons and switches, the ID. Polo will be the first Volkswagen model to feature the “Pure Positive” design language. The implementation is reflected in details such as fabric-covered surfaces on the dashboard and door inserts as well as a pleasant overall feel of all the surfaces, buttons, and controls for an inviting and friendly atmosphere.
Finally, the ID. Polo has added a special touch: a retro-themed display. With just one press of a button on the steering wheel or via the infotainment system, the digital cockpit displays transform into classic views from the Golf I of the 1980s.
Volkswagen’s move back to clear, tactile switches and buttons may be the response to customer feedback, but more importantly, it will play a role in future European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) tests.
Starting this year, Euro NCAP will require separate, physical controls for basic functions limiting eyes-off-road time.
Under the new rating scheme, which has just come into effect, cars tested by the Euro NCAP won’t be able to achieve the highest safety rating if they don’t provide proper, physical switches for certain functions including indicators, hazard lights, sounding the horn, operating windscreen wipers, and activating the eCall SOS function.
Great move by Volkswagen.
ReplyDeleteNo need to fully copy Tesla and other Chinese car manufacturers.
So Toyota has been right all along. LoL to those saying Toyota is low tech, now as always Toyota has the last laugh 😻😻😻
ReplyDeleteHindi naman sinabing low tech ang toyota dahil may physical buttons parin, sadyang low tech lang talaga kasi karamihan sa kanila daihatsu.
DeleteKahit nga yung hindi daihatsu low tech talaga eh, tingnan mo rav4, labo ng rear camera, liit ng screen, bagal pa. Compare mo rav4 natin sa rav4 sa america, canada, europe at australia, parang ibang sasakyan sa laki ng difference. Hindi yung bago ah.
Yeah, I don't think the physical switches are the only thing giving them that label. You should see how slow the systems are on the new Urban Cruiser. 😬
DeleteVW also has a more ambitious roadmap ahead than Toyota specifically targeting a very affordable EV in the near future which is something Toyota has not committed to (for better or worse).
Meanwhile, mazda...
ReplyDeleteTHIS.
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