How Autonomous Car Concepts are Influencing Current UX/UI Design

The rise of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has had a profound impact on modern UX/UI design, laying the foundations for new user expectations, interfaces and interactions. Even though fully autonomous cars are still in development, their concepts are actively influencing current automotive design trends.

Shift from driver-centric to passenger-centric UX

Traditional car UX focused on the driver managing controls, but AV concepts prioritise the passenger experience. As the responsibility of driving reduces, designers are rethinking interiors to support new activities such as working, relaxing or entertaining. This shift calls for adaptable interfaces that balance functionality and simplicity, while accommodating a range of user needs, such as personal control over lighting, seating or infotainment systems.

(source: https://www.autosprint.ch/en/aktuell/yanfeng-das-auto-als-oase-zum-wohlfuehlen/)

Trust and communication through UX

A critical design challenge in autonomous vehicles is building trust. AVs need to clearly communicate their intentions and status to help users feel safe. For example, interface systems now display the vehicle’s awareness of its surroundings, such as identifying pedestrians or road conditions. By showing this “cognitive awareness” in real time, car manufacturers aim to reduce fears about safety and control.

(source: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/11/5/117)

Incorporating AI for predictive experiences

Autonomous car concepts are increasingly using AI to predict user preferences and streamline the journey. Features such as adaptive climate control, route suggestions or personalised entertainment systems increase comfort. These innovations are now influencing current vehicles, even in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), where predictive feedback improves the user experience.

(source: https://blogs.sw.siemens.com/thought-leadership/2022/01/24/in-cabin-ai-the-push-to-develop-smarter-autonomous-cars-for-the-future/)

Flexible and minimalist UI design

AV interiors often emphasise minimalism, reflecting an intuitive approach to reducing cognitive load. Touchscreens, voice commands and haptic feedback replace traditional controls, simplifying navigation and vehicle interaction. As designers test AVs, these principles are being incorporated into current models, with large screens, clean dashboards, and advanced voice assistants such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

(source: https://autodesignmagazine.com/en/2024/03/bmw-neue-klasse-x-suv-from-the-future/)

Balancing automation and human interaction

Even as automation advances, user-centred design remains essential. For example, partial autonomy (such as Tesla’s Autopilot) requires intuitive systems that allow for seamless driver interaction. Modern UIs already address this balance, ensuring clarity in mode switching and responsibilities between human and machine.