
The center console refers to the control panel located on the right side of the steering wheel, in the middle front section of the cockpit. Introduction to A-pillar: The pillar between the windshield and the left front door is called the A-pillar. Normally, the driver's binocular overlap angle through the A-pillar is 5-6 degrees. From the perspective of driver comfort, the smaller this overlap angle is, the better, and the thinner the A-pillar is, the better. Introduction to B-pillar: The B-pillar, also known as the center pillar, is located between the front and rear doors. It bears pressure from two aspects: supporting the roof and withstanding the pressure from the front and rear doors. Additionally, some additional components, such as the front seat belts, are installed inside the B-pillar. Therefore, to better achieve force transmission, the B-pillar is usually designed to protrude outward.

When I first bought my car, I wasn't quite sure where the center console was located. Later, I realized it's the area between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat. It starts from the lower right side of the steering wheel and extends all the way to the front of the armrest box - this entire section counts as the center console. Its main function is to operate various vehicle equipment, with features like AC buttons, audio knobs, and navigation screens all located here. Some car models even position the gearshift lever in this area. What I find most convenient is that all control buttons are within easy reach while driving, eliminating the need to search around. Nowadays, many new car models make this section particularly advanced, equipping it with large touchscreens and ambient lighting.

The first thing you interact with every time you drive is the center console area, located on the right side of the driver. It makes full use of the space below the instrument panel, featuring various buttons and knobs. I particularly appreciate center console designs with clearly defined zones, where the air conditioning controls and media controls are separately arranged, making operations very intuitive while driving. New car owners might need some extra time to familiarize themselves with the functions of each button, but once accustomed, they can operate them effortlessly. With the advancement of automotive intelligence, many center consoles have now evolved into full touchscreens, where even the steering wheel controls can adjust the central display content.

The center console is quite interesting in its design, as it precisely occupies the visual focal point inside the car. When driving, our eyes naturally scan towards this area, which is why automakers place special emphasis on its aesthetic appeal. From classic physical buttons to the now-popular floating touchscreens, the layout of center consoles has undergone significant changes. Some sporty models even intentionally tilt the console towards the driver for easier one-handed operation. In terms of practical functions, besides the air conditioning and entertainment systems, I often use the hidden storage compartment beneath the center console for my phone and loose change—this discreet storage design is very thoughtful.


