GM redesigns truck interface with physical controls and screens

General Motors is rolling out a redesigned in-cabin user interface for its upcoming 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks. The new system aims to combat driver screen fatigue by integrating physical buttons and knobs alongside minimally configured displays focused on essential information.

Spearheaded by Sebastian Bauer, GM's head of human interface design, who previously spent 15 years at Apple and Google, the interface was developed over two years. Bauer's goal was to create an "economical" interface that surfaces necessary features at the right moments without overwhelming the driver. "We saw most automakers just adding bigger screens. We wanted a more balanced approach," Bauer stated.

The new design features screens that blend into the dashboard and a thin line of analog controls for common functions like volume and temperature adjustment. While the displays span over 60 inches across three separate areas, they are designed not to dominate the driver's view. The passenger-side infotainment screen is filtered to be entirely invisible to the driver.

GM aims to provide drivers with needed information and experiences quickly, likening the interface to an "open concept" home where everything is easily accessible. This approach, influenced by Apple's design rigor, also seeks to leverage drivers' existing muscle memory and habits, avoiding overly drastic changes. The automaker plans to expand this interface across its portfolio.