Mercedes Plans to Expand In-Car Screens for Enhanced User Experience

Revolutionary side-to-side screens are the upcoming trend in technology.

We often hear warnings against using our smartphones while operating a vehicle, in order to prevent potential distractions. Despite this advice, car manufacturers are still incorporating excessively large screens into their dashboard designs. Mercedes is one of the main culprits, with their latest “Hyperscreen” display. Yet, it seems that the German luxury brand has no plans to slow down when it comes to loading their cars with multiple screens.

In a recent interview with Autocar, Markus Schäfer, the chief technology officer of the company, revealed that Mercedes has even more exciting advancements in store. He stated, “We are on a trajectory where you see even more screens in the car.” According to Schäfer, the next major development will be a corner-to-corner display, as he explained, “Mercedes will go to seamless screens from left to right. That’s the next evolution.”

According to Schäfer, the jumbo-sized OLED, which utilizes LG technology and measures over 55 inches (1.4 meters) in width, will deliver an unparalleled experience. He promises that it will be “really stunning” for users. The aim is to utilize a video game engine to ensure that the graphics are of the highest quality. Currently, the Hyperscreen is comprised of three individual displays. These include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 17.7-inch infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch display for the front passenger.

BMW’s main competitor, Archrival, has managed to come up with a solution for incorporating screens into various locations in their luxurious cars. This does not refer to the massive 31.3-inch Theatre Screen that can be folded down from the roof of the 7 Series and China’s extended wheelbase version of the 5 Series. Instead, both rear door panels of their top-of-the-line model now include 5.5-inch touchscreens, allowing access to a range of features.

BMW has recently indicated its desire to shift gears and pursue a new direction with their upcoming vehicle models. This strategic shift will apply specifically to the next generation of electric vehicles, which will be built on the Neue Klasse platform. One significant change will involve abandoning the current side-by-side screen configuration. Rather than featuring a traditional instrument cluster, BMW aims to incorporate a dashboard-wide head-up display. Furthermore, they plan to relocate the infotainment system towards the center of the dashboard for easy accessibility.

Regarding Audi, the Grandsphere concept – projected to offer a glimpse of the upcoming A8 successor – showcased a wide dashboard screen. Additionally, it boasted a distinct driver’s display positioned on the steering column.

The trend is evident – car manufacturers are ditching traditional buttons and knobs and incorporating access to these functions within large touchscreens. This is not only limited to high-end brands, as mainstream car makers are also gradually abandoning conventional controls.

Apparently, not all car manufacturers are jumping on the trend of getting rid of physical buttons in their vehicles. Hyundai has made a promise to remain loyal to the use of hard buttons, recognizing their value and practicality. Similarly, Volkswagen has acknowledged that their decision to remove these buttons was an error, and they are determined to rectify it. Their first step towards this is seen in the 2025 Golf GTI model, which will once again feature traditional keys incorporated into the steering wheel. This serves as a clear indication that some companies are holding onto functionality rather than blindly following the latest fads.

Source: Autocar