Jo is an interactive in-car system that seamlessly guides drivers
from manual control to full autonomy in three progressive stages. Through empathetic support,
Jo enhances user confidence and cultivates trust in autonomous driving.
Goal
Jo is an interactive in-car system designed to help drivers transition smoothly
from manual control to full autonomy. By focusing on trust and gradual adaptation, Jo enables young commuters
to build confidence in autonomous driving while maintaining a sense of control. The system was developed in
response to future mobility challenges, emphasizing the need for a more natural and reliable connection between
users and their vehicles.
Design process
The development of Jo followed a structured research and design process,
starting with desk research, surveys, digital ethnography, and interviews to identify key user behaviors
and pain points. Through multiple iterations, the team explored various automotive scenarios and gradually
refined the concept to focus on trust in automation. Initial prototypes and user testing revealed the need
to simplify interactions, leading to a refined UI and improved system logic. Testing sessions with students,
professors, and industry professionals provided valuable feedback, helping to enhance usability, streamline
communication, and integrate ADAS into the cockpit for a more intuitive experience.
How it works
Jo introduces autonomy in three progressive steps, allowing drivers to adjust at their own pace. By continuously monitoring the driver’s emotional state, Jo detects moments of relaxation and suggests increasing automation accordingly, ensuring a smoother transition. The system’s digital assistant provides intuitive guidance through voice commands and steering wheel controls, reinforcing a sense of support and reliability. Key refinements include relocating essential information to the cockpit, reducing text in favor of voice interaction, and enhancing user control with a reject option via the left handle.
With
Agostino Sanna
Paolo Lunardon
Simone De Marchi
Martina Ricca
Italdesign
Tools
Interview
Shadowing
Figma
ProtoPie
User testing
Prototypes
Logitech steering wheel
My role
UX researcher
Interaction designer
UI developer
Motion designer
