Hyundai's design chief states that analog car interiors will make a comeback in 1 to 2 model generations.

      DREW PHILLIPS

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      Just last week, we experienced a demonstration of Hyundai's upcoming infotainment system, which features an enormous central touchscreen similar to Tesla's design. If you're among the increasing number of enthusiasts and consumers who are concerned about the removal of physical controls in vehicles, this innovation might have caused you some distress.

      It certainly raised our concerns, which is why we spoke with Luc Donckerwolke, Hyundai Motor Group's chief creative officer, at the Seoul Mobility Show. He reassured us that analog interfaces still have a promising future and suggested that we can expect cars with less reliance on screens in another generation or two.

      "We will witness a revival of analog and a decrease in screen usage—but it will take one or two generations—because, quite simply, people have their phones and can access everything they need on them," the Belgian designer explained. "While it's possible to sync with your car, most individuals still prefer their phones for navigation and other functions," Donckerwolke shared with The Drive.

      "Since Steve Jobs revolutionized our lives with the iPhone, every phone or communication device is now a screen. This is beneficial as it minimizes tooling costs by having just one screen. There's no need for physical buttons and instruments, yet people still enjoy analog interaction. Today, it's all about finding a balance: having screens that provide information in a sufficiently large format that allows for brief glances while remaining focused on driving," he elaborated.

      "However, we must ensure that screens don't force users into complex submenus for tasks that previously required a single button press. It's crucial not to overcomplicate things. Relying solely on screens can distract drivers from keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. For me, safety is paramount."

      This brings to mind our reviews editor Chris Tsui's recent encounter with the Mercedes-Benz CLE300, where the screens malfunctioned, rendering all non-drivetrain functions useless. Donckerwolke noted that in a hurry to emulate smart device experiences, automakers have taken on a significant workload simply replicating features that drivers’ phones can already perform.

      Even among today's screen-heavy vehicles, the hybrid digital-analog approach found in the latest Hyundai and Genesis electric vehicles is superior to some competitors. Donckerwolke has played a key creative role in iconic models like the Lamborghini Murcielago and Gallardo, Bentley Flying Spur, Audi R8 Le Mans race car, and others.

      We can anticipate more of this digital-analog equilibrium, but he warned that future interiors will be influenced by more than just the preferences of those seeking analog involvement. The type of vehicle and its pricing may determine the amount of screen space available.

      "It also depends on the vehicle type," Donckerwolke added. "Mainstream vehicles will predominantly use screens for a few more generations. Basic models will expect owners to 'bring their own device'—meaning they'll primarily rely on their phones as screens—while luxury vehicles will certainly incorporate screens, alongside voice controls. You'll see a diminished reliance on large screens."

      Reducing that reliance also benefits automakers. Maintaining legacy software is challenging, especially in an environment with potential digital threats and heightened data privacy concerns.

      "The primary concern with large screens is the constant need to update their content, which other industries manage much better than the automotive sector. There's a risk of having sizeable screens without the quality content necessary," he added.

      You had us at "fewer screens." Everything else is just an added bonus.

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