I spent many years as a high-performance driving instructor, and I can tell you from experience that one of the most nerve-racking things about teaching a novice to drive at high speed on a race track is that student who can’t seem to stop looking at the speedometer. Sure, it’s cool to tell your friends that you hit 130 mph down the back straight, but it’s not cool to look at your speedometer longer than you look at the track at those speeds.
The Importance of Focus on the Track
When you’re driving at high speeds, especially on a race track, your primary focus should be on the road ahead, the turns, and the other vehicles around you. Constantly glancing at the speedometer can be a dangerous distraction. It takes your eyes off the track, which can lead to missed braking points, improper cornering, and even accidents. This is why seasoned drivers often emphasize the importance of “driving by feel” and using peripheral vision to monitor essential gauges without losing focus on the track.
McLaren has recognized this issue and has come up with an innovative solution. The new dash that is coming on its next-generation Super Series sports car will fold down to reduce the distractions that might tempt you while on the track. When the standard display screen is folded down, you can still see essential information like RPM, speed, and the gear you are in, but it’s presented on a very small and minimal display. This minimalist approach ensures that drivers can keep their eyes on the track while still having access to critical data.
Adaptive Display for Different Driving Modes
McLaren’s new dash isn’t just about reducing distractions on the track; it’s also about providing flexibility for different driving conditions. The minimalist display can be tied to various driving modes, allowing drivers to customize their dashboard based on their current needs. For instance, in track mode, the display can be minimized to show only the most crucial information, helping the driver maintain focus. In contrast, during street driving, the display can be expanded to provide more comprehensive data, such as navigation, fuel levels, and other metrics that are more relevant for everyday driving.
This adaptive display is a game-changer for high-performance vehicles. It offers a blend of safety and convenience, ensuring that drivers have the right information at the right time without being overwhelmed by unnecessary data. This feature is particularly beneficial for novice drivers who are still getting accustomed to high-speed driving and need to minimize distractions as much as possible.
Moreover, the ability to switch between different display modes can enhance the overall driving experience. For example, during a leisurely drive through the city, a driver might appreciate having access to a full suite of information, including entertainment options and connectivity features. On the other hand, during a spirited drive on a winding road or a track day, the minimalist display can help the driver stay focused and engaged with the driving experience.
McLaren says you can tie that minimalist display to driving modes or activate it for street driving if you want less distraction. This sounds very cool to me, and I wish other cars had this option. The concept of a foldable, adaptive display could set a new standard in the automotive industry, encouraging other manufacturers to explore similar innovations.
In conclusion, McLaren’s new dash is a thoughtful and practical innovation that addresses a common issue faced by high-speed drivers. By offering a minimalist display that can be adapted to different driving modes, McLaren is enhancing both safety and convenience for its drivers. This feature not only helps drivers maintain focus on the track but also provides flexibility for various driving conditions, making it a valuable addition to any high-performance vehicle.
via McLaren
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