Driver Interaction, Needs, and Preferences for Steering-Wheel HMIs: An International Survey

Abstract

The increasing integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), infotainment platforms, and connected technologies has transformed the steering wheel into a central Human–Machine Interface (HMI) for drivers. Despite this evolution and the growing complexity of automotive HMIs, quantitative studies providing a holistic understanding of drivers’ interaction patterns, preferences, and unmet needs regarding steering-wheel interfaces remain limited. This study aims to characterize current driver interaction with steering-wheel HMI technologies and identify design implications for future automotive interfaces through an international online survey conducted among drivers holding a valid motor vehicle driving license. A total of 280 participants from multiple nationalities completed the questionnaire, covering driver profiles, vehicle technologies, steering-wheel interaction and usability. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods to identify interaction patterns, usability challenges, and user expectations.The results indicate that steering-wheel controls are particularly relevant for infotainment and communication functionalities, with nearly 80% participants reporting regular use. In contrast, ADAS-related steering-wheel controls presented lower usage levels. Although participants generally perceived steering-wheel layouts and icons as intuitive and recognizable, difficulties in locating functions, non-intuitive layouts, and excessive numbers of physical buttons were identified as relevant usability challenges. Participants showed a preference for customizable controls, simplified layouts, and adaptive functionalities to improve convenience while reducing interaction complexity and driver distraction.The findings provide empirical insights into current driver interaction with steering-wheel HMI technologies and support the user-centred design of future automotive interfaces. The design implications can assist researchers and manufacturers in developing safer, more intuitive, and adaptable steering-wheel HMIs.

Keywords: Steering-Wheel HMI, Automotive Human–Machine Interfaces, Driver Interaction, User-Centered Design, Driver Distraction.

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1008137