The new Lincoln Nautilus features a 48-inch panoramic screen that sets a new standard for dashboard displays. Designed thoughtfully, this screen is not just about size but functionality and safety, addressing concerns about the growing trend of large displays in modern cars.
With the increasing expectation for cars to replicate the digital experience of smartphones, many vehicles now feature large, gadget-packed screens. However, these can often become distractions rather than enhancements. The trend started with Tesla’s Model S in 2009, featuring a 17-inch center display, and has since evolved into massive screens like Mercedes-Benz's 56-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, which spans the entire car width.
However, many of these designs replace analog controls with touchscreens, which can be problematic for moving vehicles. For example, adjusting the air vents in a Rivian R1T requires dragging a finger across a virtual dashboard on the touchscreen—such designs force drivers to divert their attention from the road, posing safety risks. The European New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) plans to evaluate vehicle controls in safety ratings starting in 2026, requiring physical controls for essential functions to achieve high ratings.
The Lincoln Nautilus addresses these issues with its panoramic screen. Positioned above the dashboard and set back from the driver, it keeps essential information within the driver's natural field of vision. Information like time and weather, displayed on the far right, uses larger graphics and fonts for easy readability.
Christian Dodd, Lincoln's digital design director, emphasized the importance of not overloading the display with information. The panoramic screen in the Nautilus is paired with a smaller 11-inch touchscreen located lower on the center stack. The touchscreen prioritizes voice control through Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for functions like setting cabin temperature, playing music, and getting directions.
Interestingly, the Nautilus does not include a head-up display projected on the windshield, a common feature in luxury cars. Lincoln determined it was optional due to the efficiency of the panoramic screen setup. Additionally, when parked, the driver can access entertainment options like gaming, video streaming, and Zoom meetings.
Looking ahead, as cars become more automated, windshields could become entertainment screens, further expanding the boundaries of in-car digital experiences.