Jörgen Normark

The computerization of automobiles and their interfaces leads to unprecedented opportunities. With fully graphical display devices instead of mechanical gauges, the flexibility of the visual information presented to the driver is expanded largely when it comes to what, where, and when to present things. The graphical displays also lead to a cost efficient way to update and change information and in-vehicle systems. The in-vehicle information can be tailored to fit specific user groups, or even specific individuals. These possibilities raise questions whether the user can control and customize the vehicle by him or her self, to what extent, will these possibilities have an impact on driving safety, and what are the users emotional appeal to this? In order to create a safe driving environment, the in-vehicle systems need to be enjoyable to use and suit the users needs. Focus has shifted from investigating how different systems and devices, like the mobile phone, affect the driver, to investigating why the driver really needs to use a mobile phone. The design task is to design the vehicle in a way that it allows the user to fulfill his or hers needs, like communicating, in a safe way.