The history of car interiors, past and present

Evolution of car interiors, from simplicity to luxury

Nothing defines driving comfort quite like your car's interior, whether you're sitting on a leather seat or have amenities like an airbag or built-in GPS. Cars have come a long way to achieve this level of comfort. Discover the history of the car interior in this blog post.

From simplicity...

At the beginning of the twentieth century, when cars first appeared, vehicles were still simple, as were their interiors. They were seen as a practical means of getting from point A to point B. Therefore, interior comfort and safety were practically nonexistent. They were primarily characterized by wooden benches and a simple dashboard with the most essential instruments.

...to more luxury

Only when the automotive industry truly began to become a business did car manufacturers pay more attention to the interior. Between the two world wars, they used luxurious-looking materials like leather and chrome. While this significantly improved the car's appearance, comfort was still far from being a priority.

That only changed in the 1950s and 1960s when more technology came onto the market. The industry made its biggest leap forward, and the car of that time closely resembled what we know today. Cars were equipped with air conditioning, power windows, and radios. Comfort was increased, making the vehicle suitable for everyday use. In the 1970s, more materials, such as plastics, became available, and safety was improved with the introduction of airbags and seat belts.

The interior today

These days, you can't imagine anything too crazy and your car has it. From touchscreens to navigation systems, entertainment systems, and autopilot. Technology has delivered high-tech features that have elevated driving comfort to unprecedented levels. Sustainable materials are also increasingly being used in the interior. And perhaps we haven't reached the end of the line yet...

Want to learn more about the history of car interiors? Contact ICT-ASL Benelux.