In an era when almost every car is obsessed with touchscreens, Skoda is making a sharp turn that may turn out to be the most sensible move for the brand. While competitors are racing to eliminate physical buttons, Skoda's CEO says that their company has found the perfect balance that simultaneously reduces distractions and increases driver safety.
"Smart dials": The future is in the past
Skoda's solution is materialized in the so-called "smart dials". These innovative controls, already available in the new Superb and Kodiaq, are a hybrid between classic buttons and miniature 32mm displays. This allows the driver and passenger to control basic functions such as air conditioning temperature, seat heating and ventilation without having to dig through complex menus on the central screen.
The central dial offers even wider functionality. With its help, fan speed, air direction, volume, driving modes and even the scale of the navigation map can be controlled. This Smart approach ensures that important settings are always at hand, intuitive and easy to use.
Development and future plans
Although the system is currently only available in two models, Skoda has confirmed that it will soon be implemented in its future seven-seat electric crossover. The Vision 7S concept model has already shown an architecture with three similar dials, which is a clear sign of the brand's long-term intentions.
Skoda's management does not hide that in the past there were problems with software within the Volkswagen Group. Today, however, these problems have been overcome, and the current systems are stable and receive regular updates.
Smart design philosophy
Skoda's main goal is to make automotive technology less intrusive and eliminate the so-called "visual noise". By simplifying the interface, the brand seeks to increase driver comfort and safety. This approach shows that innovation does not always mean more screens, but more often - a more intelligent and intuitive design.