Large screens are no longer just a prestige car thing. Generally, technology trickles down from luxury cars to more affordable ones, only it’s not a trickle now, more a torrent.
The legal and safety implications of using the systems while driving could also be significant. When the car is switched on most ‘infotainment’ systems ask the driver to agree to not let the content on the display distract them while driving.
Carmakers would argue that many physical controls remain on the steering wheel and this is true, but we’re not just talking about skipping to the next track or adjusting the volume. Many controls are only accessible now through a screen such as safety systems like lane keeping assistance; convenience functions like the heated steering wheel, seats and lighting; vehicle set-up from suspension to drive modes; and even the engine stop/start function.
