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Automotive Human-Machine Interaction (NDA)

Role:

UX Designer

Project Timeline:

November 2022 - December 2024

Location:

Berlin, Germany

This project is under Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with Volkswagen Group. All visualizations in this document are rendered within defined visual boundaries or using publicly available materials that are contextually relevant.

Project Goals

To expand, iterate, and create an intuitive human-machine interaction system that prioritizes seamless, minimally disruptive usability while driving. These interfaces were developed in compliance with driver safety regulations and tailored to align with brand-specific design guidelines across Volkswagen Group’s portfolio.

 

Key focus areas:

  • Safety-Centric Design: Ensuring all interactions adhere to ISO 26262 and regional driving safety laws, minimizing cognitive load to keep driver attention on the road.

  • Brand Alignment: Adapting interface logic, visual language, and interaction patterns to preserve the unique identity of each Volkswagen Group brand (e.g., Audi, Porsche, VW, etc).

  • Context-Aware Usability: Implementing voice commands, gesture controls, and adaptive touch interfaces that respond dynamically to driving conditions, enabling safe multitasking without compromising operational focus.

tomton-and-cariad-navigation-v1.jpeg

Image Source: [1]

Challenges

EV adoption has created a need for navigation systems that could display crucial information such as battery status and charging information, easing driver concerns about running out of power, especially on long-distance journeys.

At the same time, modern ADAS features must be user-friendly, keeping drivers alert and in control. A clear navigation interface helps communicate upcoming hazards and maneuvers effectively. But manufacturers also need to consider that the driver has only limited processing capacity while they are driving.

Design Lifecycles

1. Requirement Identification

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The design process began with identifying user needs and analyzing existing products on the market. Initial information about user needs was often collected from different departments that in touch directly with customer. On some occasions, a research session was conducted by testing competitor products.

One example, when created solution on how to show alternative routes in navigation, Lotus Eletre’s navigation (see image) were studied for benchmark.

Lotus-Digital-Cockpit-high-res-scaled.jpg

Image Source: [2]

2. Initial Solution​

image.png

To address identified requirements, solutions are developed through a combination of prototyping and involving brands in the process.

 

Through ongoing feedback and iteration, proposed solutions are validated to ensure they are practical, user-focused, and scalable—balancing innovation with real-world execution.

Dummy example of Mockup in Figma 

3. Feasibility Check

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To ensure solutions are both brand-consistent and technically viable, cross-checks are conducted with various Volkswagen Group brands and technical stakeholders. This process verifies that designs align with each brand’s unique interface style and are compatible with their respective technology stacks.

By collaborating closely with design and engineering teams across the groups, potential integration challenges are identified early, enabling scalable and cohesive implementation across the brands.

4. User Test

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In collaboration with the researcher, test scenarios are developed to reflect the specific conditions, ensuring a realistic and relevant evaluation. Existing mockups are then be integrated on simulators (see image) to replicate the real-world driving experience during user test.

cariad-china-digital-cockpit.png

Image Source: [3]

Lesson Learned

Design for Multiple Brands

In organizations encompassing multiple brands, design decisions must account for each brand's market geography and segment positioning. Proactive engagement with individual brand teams during decision-making processes is crucial for achieving design success across the portfolio.

Driver-Cetered System

Automotive information systems represent the secondary focus for users after primary driving tasks. This necessitates that infotainment interactions prioritize:

  • Limited attention capacity

  • Intuitive workflow simplicity

  • Minimized cognitive load

Adopt New Technology Safely

While cutting-edge infotainment technologies inherently require familiarization periods, their in-vehicle implementation must:

  • Maintain uncompromised safety standards

  • Feature non-intrusive interaction patterns

  • Balance innovation with immediate usability

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