Cerium Auto

Infotainment System Concept

Context + Problem

Cerium Auto is a self-initiated automotive HMI concept focused on improving how drivers interpret, navigate, and act on information while in motion. The project explores how infotainment systems can reduce cognitive load, improve task flow, and create more predictable interactions across core driving tasks.

Current infotainment systems often force drivers to choose between usability and control. Interfaces are cluttered, buried in menus, or don’t behave like the devices people are used to. The goal was to design a system that reduces distraction, improves task speed, and still gives users control over their experience.

Research

To better understand the problem space, I conducted secondary research across platforms like Tesla, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, then validated findings through user interviews.

Competitive audit insights:

  • Clear navigation enables quick task switching

  • Consistent interactions improve predictability

  • Recognition-based UI reduces mental effort

  • Minimal layouts improve readability and focus

  • Clear feedback and guidance decreases learning curve

User interview insights:

  • Drivers treat infotainment like an extension of their phone

  • Connected users want customization and control

  • Routine users want fast, familiar interactions

  • Maps, music, messaging, and calls are the primary actions

System Design

I translated insights into a simplified system architecture focused on core driving tasks.

Strategy:

  • Prioritized 4 core functions: GPS, Music, Messaging, Phone

  • Reduce menu depth and surfaced high-frequency actions

  • Introduce customizable profiles to adapt to different users

  • Design predictable navigation patterns aligned with mobile behavior

This became a system that supports both quick interactions and deeper control when needed.

Interface Design

The interface was designed for readability at a glance, with large touch targets, reduced visual noise, and familiar interaction patterns adapted from mobile. The goal was not just visual simplicity, but faster comprehension and more confident task switching while driving.

Testing

I ran three rounds of usability testing to evaluate task speed, comprehension, and navigation confidence. Iterations focused on layout hierarchy, data presentation, and interaction predictability, leading to faster task completion and stronger user confidence in the system.

Final Concept

Outcome

Cerium pushed my thinking beyond interface design into how in-vehicle systems need to behave, prioritize, and communicate under real-world conditions. It became a way to explore simplicity, control, and familiarity in a space where interaction design carries more weight.