Autonomous revolution, HMI evolution: ‘Drastic’ changes demand respect

The human-machine interface (HMI) is not a single system as such, and is more a concept that describes any form of interaction between the vehicle and its human passengers. In the past, drivers sourced information or carried out requests manually – either by pressing a button, pulling a lever or flicking a switch. It was very much a one-way conversation, but over the last decade the HMI has become more of an open dialogue. With functions becoming electronically operated, the car can talk – in many cases literally – with its passengers thanks to intelligent software. It can also drive itself in various situations, and ensure its software is current via over-the-air updates.