Volkswagen Revises Back Buttons Following Complaints About Touchscreen-Heavy Design

The physical buttons at the rear are back in new Volkswagen car models.

Volkswagen, responding to customer feedback, shifts gears in design philosophy, discarding the touchscreen-heavy approach in favor of a more tactile experience with the groundbreaking ID 2all concept.

The change was brought up by customers who have complained that its touchscreen-heavy design was something that needs a workaround.

Customer-Driven Design Overhaul

Volkswagen to Launch Affordable EVs to Challenge Its Chinese Rivals
German auto giant Volkswagen has announced plans to develop a low-cost electric vehicle (EV) model to compete in the growing EV market. Cesar Salazar from Unsplash

VW's ID2all concept signifies a departure from the touchscreen-centric design, addressing dissatisfaction voiced by customers.

Darius Watola, VW's interior designer, reveals that the concept marks a fresh approach for all models, a direct response to recent customer feedback that criticized the touchscreen-heavy Mk8 Golf and ID 3 designs.

Away from the touchscreen-heavy design, Volkswagen brings back physical buttons for climate control and a rotary controller akin to BMW's iDrive, per Autocar. The driver-centric dashboard display ensures safety, featuring not only the main central touchscreen for infotainment but also a dedicated screen for driving information.

VW aims to phase out hard plastics, leather, chrome, and glue, embracing a sustainable approach. The ID 2all boasts surfaces soft to the touch, incorporating fabrics, Alcantara, wood, and metals.

While the concept prioritizes premium materials, the goal is to maintain a sub-€25,000 price tag, possibly influencing material choices in the production model.

Smart Storage Solutions and Design Efficiency

The ID 2all streamlines design by combining door handles, grab handles, and armrests into a unified unit, emphasizing efficiency and simplicity.

Andreas Mindt, VW's design boss, envisions a "love brand" identity for Volkswagen, emphasizing stable, likable designs infused with humor.

The ID 2all, conceptualized in just six weeks, showcases a new design language inspired by classic models like the Beetle, Golf, and Polo, distinguishing it from its predecessors and new EV rivals.

MEB Entry Platform and Performance

The ID 2all, utilizing the MEB Entry platform, promises spacious interiors, echoing the size of a Golf and the affordability of a Polo. With a length of 4050 mm and a 2600 mm wheelbase, the front-wheel-drive electric vehicle boasts a 490-liter boot and a claimed range of up to 280 miles. Two battery sizes (38kWh and 56kWh) offer flexibility, catering to different consumer needs.

Towards a Sustainable and Electric Future

Volkswagen's commitment to a sustainable future is evident in the ID 2all's efficient drivetrain, battery options, and quick-charging capabilities. The brand's vision extends beyond design, with advanced assistance systems, LED matrix headlights, and panoramic sunroofs promised in the production version, slated for a 2025 debut.

As the automaker embarks on a significant brand revamp, the ID 2all serves as a compelling manifesto, blending classic influences with modern, sustainable design.

With an innovative interior, smart features, and a commitment to affordability, Volkswagen's ID 2all paves the way for a new era of electric vehicles that prioritize user experience, sustainability, and distinctive design.

Joseph Henry
Tech Times
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