Fisker Ocean

Human-machine interface design for the all-electric SUV from automotive designer Henrik Fisker

FISKER_SHOOT_1896_TALENT_COUPLE_PROFILE_Wallbox_1_hvsqmg

UX, UI, HMI, Product Design

January 2022 - May 2024

Overview

Fisker Ocean is the first all-electric SUV in Fisker Inc.'s model line. Designed with sustainability and eco-friendliness at its core, the Ocean incorporates a variety of environmentally conscious materials and cutting-edge technologies.

The Ocean's infotainment system features a 17.1-inch center touchscreen that can rotate between portrait "Control Mode" for driving, and landscape "Hollywood Mode" while parked, allowing users to watch movies and stream content. The vehicle also boasts a 9.92-inch driver display, enabling the driver to easily view essential information while driving.

The Fisker Ocean supports various features, including custom profiles, app as a key, vehicle preconditioning, smart traction, range factors, "PowerBank", and "SolarSky".

Layout

In the early stages of development, our research team conducted concept testing and usability research. Through these studies, we discovered the importance of a clear visual hierarchy, intuitive navigation, and quick access to key features. In response, UX and UI teams developed an optimized layout to meet these requirements effectively.

Look & Feel Development

After analyzing the company's core values, interviewing the interior and exterior design teams, and exploring various visual directions, the UI team selected a dynamic environmental theme that responds to the surroundings as the look and feel direction. This approach involves dynamically changing interface colors based on the time of day and environment, offering a visually responsive experience that mirrors the user's surroundings. Organic, asymmetrical shapes combined with motion were chosen to give the design a humanistic and friendly feel.

First Look at Fisker Ocean's Interface

Unveiled at the Paris Auto Show 2022, the Fisker Ocean's user interface showcased a unique, user-centered design.

During discovery research, we identified a common need among users for a screen that they could easily use while driving, where they could see the most popular apps like the map, climate control, range, and music all in one place. As a result, we developed the concept of the Home Screen with widgets that can expand into fullscreen mode, providing a convenient and intuitive way for users to interact with these features while on the road.

The video also showcased the navigation app, music sources, audio playback, a charging screen, and real-time data from the solar roof harnessing energy. Media reviewers praised this interface for its practicality and user-friendliness.

Wireframes

Once the look and feel had been established, my primary role in the final stage of user interface development was creating layouts for the home, radio, phone, vehicle, and settings apps. I prepared user flows for all screens in the experience based on low-fidelity wireframes provided by the UX team. I also maintained the design system, delivered finalized assets to the engineering team, and ensured pixel-perfect implementation. Here are the full-fidelity wireframes featuring each app from the main navigation in light and dark themes.

Production and OTA Updates

Fisker began production of the Ocean and initiated deliveries in 2023. I was involved in developing features outlined in the roadmap for future software releases, including custom profiles, smart traction, range factors, vehicle-to-vehicle charging.

Based on user studies and feedback, the we refreshed the design, which was undergoing the implementation process. The updated design aimed to introduce enhanced visuals, improved accessibility, and address valuable customer suggestions, ensuring a more seamless and satisfying driving experience.

However, despite these efforts, Fisker filed for bankruptcy protection in June 2024, ultimately leading to the liquidation of its assets.