Apple Car Dashboard UI Concept

Crafting modular, glanceable dashboards for the modern driving experience.

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Concept Overview

Inspired by ongoing discussions about the Apple Car, I set out to design a realistic Apple-style car interface. Using Figma, I created multiple dashboard concepts that incorporate Apple's design principles and rumored automotive interface plans.

I built a modular system of instrument displays and control panels that prioritize clarity and usability while maintaining Apple's signature design approach to user experience.

Inspiration

The images below show my primary visual reference — Apple's conceptual in-car UI. I was drawn to how the gradients, spatial depth, and rounded geometry create a futuristic and intuitive interface.

Designing for automotive UI requires a different approach — contrast, legibility, and glanceability take priority over decorative flourishes. I aimed to translate these principles into a functional speedometer concept.

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Goals

  • Reimagine traditional speedometers using Apple’s aesthetic and clean grid systems
  • Explore different driving modes (Eco, Sport, Standard) with UI variations
  • Build a modular set of gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and navigation
  • Balance functionality with aesthetics — these designs should be practical, not just visually appealing

UI Explorations

I created multiple dashboard layouts, each tailored for different driving experiences.

1. Neo-Tech Drive

A clean, modern look with glowing outlines and a soft shadowed central map. Designed for electric vehicles in Eco Mode, the interface leans on green cues, subtle gradients, and a minimal HUD.

Featured:

• Circular tachometer and speedometer

• Centered navigation with step-by-step guidance

• Intelligent use of ambient light rings to indicate status

2. Eco-Analog Hybrid

This one fuses analog-inspired needles with digital precision. It features compass orientation, climate meters, and clock widgets — great for long-haul drives.

Features:

• Compass degrees & cardinal direction

• Environmental stats (temp, coolant, fuel level)

• Clock and ETA built into the layout

3. Precision Minimalist

A tighter, denser layout for drivers who prefer just the essentials. Everything is intentional — from RPMs to street navigation — and the layout thrives in night mode.

Features:

• High contrast RPM and speed readouts

• Focused wayfinding and speed limit signage

• Compact display with no visual noise

4. Sport Chrono Digital

This version focuses on performance monitoring. It functions like a digital chronograph watch, featuring clear angles, prominent RPM warning indicators, and speed-focused displays.

Features:
  • RPM display with clear red warning zones
  • Performance-focused color scheme emphasizing speed and alerts
  • Large, clear text layout for at-a-glance reading

Component System

I also broke the visuals down into modular instruments — gauges, thermometers, compass bars, etc. These components can be reused or recombined into different layouts, making the system scalable for different screen sizes (full HUD, HUD+infotainment, etc.)

Each dial has multiple variants:

• Green for battery or Eco mode

• Orange/Red for temperature, fuel alerts or Sport mode

• Blue for standard or comfort driving

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