The automotive industry is undergoing a period of unprecedented transformation. Driven by electrification, autonomous driving technology, and the integration of smartphone-like features, the cars of today are vastly different from their predecessors. This revolution is fueled by stricter environmental regulations, the rise of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers like Tesla, and the adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
One industry insider predicted significant changes within two decades, and so far, that forecast has proven accurate. The move toward electric vehicles is arguably the most significant shift. Many manufacturers are abandoning the traditional gasoline engine in favor of electric motors and battery technology. Autonomous driving capabilities are also becoming increasingly sophisticated and can handle mundane driving tasks, such as braking for pedestrians, changing lanes, and maintaining speed in traffic. Some vehicles, like those equipped with General Motors’ Super Cruise, are even capable of hands-free driving under certain conditions.
Furthermore, cars are evolving into rolling infotainment centers, integrating large touchscreens, numerous cameras, and over-the-air software updates. For example, Fisker’s Ocean SUV features a massive 17.1-inch screen that rotates for entertainment when parked.
Despite these remarkable technological advancements, a recent visit to the Los Angeles Auto Show revealed a surprising disconnect. While the internal workings of cars are undergoing a technological renaissance, their exterior designs tell a different story. The show floor presented a sea of vehicles with a remarkably similar aesthetic. The uniformity in design was uninspiring, leaving a feeling of disappointment.
These innovations are reshaping the automotive landscape, but the visual presentation of these advancements seems to be lagging behind the advancements themselves. The exciting new technology is packaged in what feels like a bland and homogenous exterior.
