Automotive interiors are losing identity and usability due to the excessive implementation of touchscreens. Product designers face a critical challenge: how to combine premium materials, safety and intuitive interaction without reverting to mechanical buttons. This presentation introduces Smart Surfaces, a new hardware UI paradigm where materials such as composites, carbon fiber, glass, wood and others become interactive. Through patented sensorization technology, èlevit embeds ultra-reliable touch sensors directly into materials without compromising design, strength, or performance. The presentation will explore how designers can reclaim brand identity, enhance perceived quality and build next-generation automotive HMIs.

• How to reclaim brand identity in automotive interiors by moving beyond generic touchscreens
• How to design interactive experiences directly on premium materials like carbon fiber, glass and composites
• How Smart Surfaces expand creative freedom without compromising safety or usability
• How to balance aesthetics, ergonomics and manufacturability when designing next-generation HMIs
• How to integrate Smart Surfaces into real product development workflows, from concept to production