Volkswagen has taken a significant step towards reviving traditional controls in automotive design with the introduction of its upcoming ID. Polo, showcasing a range of physical buttons, switches, and a dedicated audio control knob in its interior layout. The initiative aims to enhance user experience by providing tangible controls that foster a sense of reliability and familiarity.
Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen’s chief designer, conveyed this sentiment in a recent press release, stating, “We have created an interior that feels like a friend from the very first contact.” He emphasized the importance of clear physical buttons, which are designed to evoke a sense of stability and trust, while warm materials and thoughtful details contribute to the overall appeal. Notably, the interior will feature retro-inspired instrument views that nod to Volkswagen’s rich heritage.
This move to reintroduce physical controls stems from Mindt’s earlier comments to Autocar regarding the commitment to integrating real buttons in all future vehicles, starting with the innovative ID. 2all concept. The ID. Polo, which has evolved from that concept, will offer an array of tactile features that prioritize driver interaction.
In addition to the physical buttons strategically placed beneath its infotainment display, the ID. Polo boasts a steering wheel equipped with numerous clearly labeled buttons, ensuring ease of access and control for the driver. The design team has also placed an audio control knob conveniently between the driver and passenger, allowing for effortless adjustments to volume and track selection.
While the ID. Polo embraces a modern digital cockpit with a 10.25-inch display located behind the steering wheel, it also features a nearly 13-inch central touchscreen, enhancing the vehicle’s technological offerings. For those who appreciate a classic touch, the car can switch its cockpit display to a design inspired by the iconic Golf I from the 1980s, either via a dedicated button on the steering wheel or through the touchscreen interface.
The ID. Polo is set to launch as the first in a series of four new electric vehicles targeted at the small and compact car market, with rollouts planned across European markets starting this year. However, despite these promising developments, Volkswagen has announced that it does not currently plan to introduce the compact EV in the United States, limiting its availability to the European consumer base.
