Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concept of "anti-human design" in automobiles, categorizing designs into two types: those that compromise user experience for aesthetics or cost, and those that, while seemingly counterintuitive, are based on engineering logic or industry standards [1][36]. Group 1: Unreasonable Designs - Hidden door handles are popular among new energy vehicles for their aesthetic appeal and slight reduction in drag coefficient, but the energy savings are minimal, leading to user inconvenience in cold weather and potential safety issues [3][4][5]. - The trend of eliminating physical buttons in favor of touchscreens can create safety hazards, as drivers must navigate menus instead of using simple buttons to adjust settings [7][8]. - The removal of physical "close" buttons for features like electric tailgates can lead to awkward user experiences when the sensor fails [10]. Group 2: Reasonable Designs - The gear shift logic of placing the reverse (R) gear in front of the drive (D) gear is based on historical conventions that enhance usability and safety during parking maneuvers [11][12]. - The design of rear seat angles, which may feel uncomfortable, is actually intended to improve comfort and safety by preventing passengers from sliding during collisions [15][18][21]. - The thickening of the A-pillar, while reducing visibility, is a necessary compromise for structural integrity and safety during collisions, with modern technology providing solutions to mitigate blind spots [23][25][28]. Group 3: Safety Considerations - Delays in automatic window operations are designed to prevent accidents, particularly for children and pets, reflecting a safety-first approach in engineering [29][30]. - The article emphasizes that many designs perceived as "anti-human" are actually rooted in safety, comfort, and regulatory compliance, highlighting the importance of understanding the rationale behind these choices [33][36].

Core Viewpoint - The automotive industry is experiencing a debate between "technology" and "safety," sparked by Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna's comments on the ineffectiveness of in-car screens, emphasizing that cars are meant for driving, not for entertainment [1] Group 1: Trends in Automotive Design - The automotive interior design is diverging into two trends: the minimalist tech approach represented by Tesla, which uses a central touchscreen to replace most physical buttons, and the traditional approach upheld by companies like Ferrari, which values the tactile feedback of physical controls [4] - The "efficiency-first" camp advocates for touchscreen operations that align with digital-native user habits, while the "safety-first" camp emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of physical buttons in emergencies [4] - The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) warns that integrating all functions into screens increases the risk of accidents due to driver distraction [4] Group 2: Regulatory Changes and Industry Response - The recent regulations from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) regarding hidden door handles in electric vehicles signal a shift in the automotive industry from a focus on aesthetics and technology to prioritizing safety and practicality [5] - Volkswagen plans to reintroduce physical buttons for core functions across all models starting in 2026, reflecting market recognition of the safety benefits of physical controls [4] Group 3: Systemic Safety Risks - The safety crisis in smart vehicles has evolved from mechanical failures to systemic risks, including the elimination of hardware redundancies, increased cognitive load from human-machine interaction, and vulnerabilities in software security [6] - The average time a driver’s gaze is diverted from the road when using a touchscreen is 1.5 seconds longer than with physical buttons, significantly increasing accident risk [6] Group 4: Innovations in Safety Design - The automotive industry is seeking breakthroughs in safety through advancements in materials and architecture, such as solid-state batteries and fire-resistant electrolytes [7] - New safety designs, like BMW's iDrive system, aim to reduce reliance on touchscreens by enhancing voice control response times [7] - Regulatory bodies are implementing stricter safety standards, compelling manufacturers to invest significantly in safety technology [7] Group 5: Future of Automotive Safety Standards - The automotive safety revolution is underway, with a focus on integrating proactive, passive, and operational safety measures [10] - Future regulations will likely become more stringent, with increased emphasis on safety design and technology investment by manufacturers [9] - Consumers are expected to prioritize safety ratings and features in their purchasing decisions, making safety a critical factor in the automotive market [9]