A next-generation HMI for Aston Martin
Valence reimagines the Aston Martin experience for a 2035 driver. It carries the marque’s heritage of refined British craftsmanship into a next-generation HMI — intuitive mode control, real-time feedback and immersive environmental visuals that bring performance, emotion and seamless interaction together.
Valence covers the three places a driver looks at and touches: the dashboard behind the wheel, the steering wheel itself and the central display. All three follow the same drive mode — GT, Sport or Track.
The dashboard is the interface drivers use most while driving. We gave it more features and made it adapt to the moment: GT, Sport and Track Mode each get a layout tailored to what the driver needs right then.
In GT Mode the dashboard puts a comfortable, intuitive drive for daily use first. The car sits at the center in real-time 3D, between the gear and RPM dial on the left and the speed dial on the right.
Sport Mode heightens engagement and responsiveness, with performance-oriented feedback and more visual energy.
Track Mode is built for competitive driving, where every detail matters. Everything non-essential is gone, leaving only the critical racing data so drivers stay fully focused at high speed.
A custom steering wheel, 3D-printed as a physical prototype, bridges the elegance of grand touring with the raw precision of track driving. It is the driver’s main point of contact with the car — physically, and with its digital systems.
The central display is the main hub of communication between the driver and the car. Intuitive and immersive, it brings key functions, the drive modes and real-time feedback together — Aston Martin’s luxury and intelligence at the driver’s fingertips.
To tailor the design, we interviewed Aston Martin owners, then built personas and user journey maps from what they told us.
“Honestly, I feel like the Aston Martin doesn’t really offer a noticeable sensory difference between its modes, except for the raw power that it delivers. I wasn’t even tempted to really push the car to its limits.”
“While in Track mode, I hardly noticed any significant changes in the car’s performance. I yearned for more visual cues that would truly convey the exhilarating experience of driving a high-performance machine.”
“The dashboards in my Aston Martin leave much to be desired. With just a basic tachometer and screen, it feels like I’m missing out on so much potential. This simplicity really dampens my daily driving experience.”
Drive mode transitions lack UX clarity and feedback.
Every mode change shows on all three surfaces: the cluster switches layout, the knob’s halo changes colour, and the display plays a matching transition.
Ergonomics are inconsistent between GT and Track Mode.
One wheel serves both modes. In Track Mode its two screens switch to three big icons, and the display prompts a seat adjustment on entry.
Limited personalization for driver profiles and behaviors.
The car greets its driver by name and sets seat, steering and climate; the display’s scene follows the time of day and the place.
Visual overload in the cluster during high-performance driving.
Track Mode keeps only the critical racing data — shift lights, an oversized gear, four tire temperatures — and cuts the wheel’s screens to three big icons.
Autonomous grand tours — scenic, high-end journeys with a spouse.
Elegant · Leisurely · Long road trips · Traditional driving feel
Track days and performance driving events.
Competitive · Data-aware · Chases the perfect lap · Insights over raw data
City and highway driving, with an emphasis on comfort, control and refinement.
ActionApproaches and unlocks the car.
GoalA quick, effortless start to the journey.
TouchpointSmart key authentication; personalized ambient lighting turns on.
ActionSits in the driver’s seat and presses start.
GoalA seamless, welcoming transition into the car.
TouchpointSeat, steering and climate adjust automatically; the dashboard greets the driver.
ActionPicks a destination by voice or touch.
GoalEasy route selection, minimal distraction.
TouchpointThe AR-HUD previews the route; AI suggests the best one for current traffic.
ActionReviews traffic and sets the drive mode.
GoalA drive tuned to personal preference.
TouchpointAI traffic insights, lane optimization and real-time adaptive navigation.
ActionDrives, following navigation and traffic updates.
GoalStay focused while getting essential assistance.
TouchpointThe AR-HUD highlights lane guidance, live traffic alerts and road warnings.
ActionUses entertainment and productivity features.
GoalInfotainment control without distraction.
TouchpointVoice commands, steering-wheel controls, call suggestions and AI-picked music.
ActionStops at red lights or in congestion.
GoalLess idle frustration, more useful updates.
TouchpointThe display switches to quick information: schedule, news, energy tips.
ActionReaches the destination and looks for a space.
GoalHassle-free parking with minimal input.
TouchpointAR parking assist suggests free spots; Auto-Park if selected.
ActionGets out and secures the car.
GoalA smooth return to the daily routine.
TouchpointThe car locks itself.
The final prototype brings the physical steering wheel, the digital dashboard and the central display together in one setup — housed in a custom-built interior rig that simulates the car.
To see Valence where it belongs, we modelled the HMI into a full car interior and rendered it in Blender — the dashboard behind the wheel, the steering wheel with its two touch screens, and the central display.
