2024 speaker
Elizabeth Musanga
Navigating the Crossroads: Embracing Degrowth and Sustainability in Automotive UX
As an automotive engineer with a background in UX design, Elizabeth Musanga is passionate about the intersection of these two fields. She believes that UX designers have a critical role to play in shaping the future of the automotive industry, particularly as we transition to a more sustainable future.
“In today’s world, the automotive industry has predominantly embraced consumerism, often neglecting the profound environmental consequences of this approach. Users have grown accustomed to a specific driving experience, and the need to transform it in response to the imperative of sustainability is clear. Our challenge lies in reshaping these ingrained habits, and in doing so, we uncover both a compelling opportunity and a moral responsibility.
The automotive industry, with its focus on mass production and individual car ownership, has long been a driving force behind consumerism and its associated environmental impacts. As UX designers, we have played a role in shaping this narrative, often inadvertently encouraging a focus on material possessions and impulsive purchasing decisions. However, at this critical juncture, we must rise to the challenge and redefine our role in the automotive industry, embracing degrowth principles and championing sustainable practices.
The current automotive paradigm is unsustainable. The production, operation, and disposal of conventional vehicles contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and pollution. Moreover, the industry’s emphasis on individual car ownership perpetuates a lifestyle that prioritizes convenience over environmental responsibility.
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) offers a beacon of hope, presenting an opportunity to reshape the automotive experience while minimizing its environmental footprint. However, we must move beyond simply swapping out internal combustion engines for electric ones. We need a holistic approach that encompasses user-centric design, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to sustainability.
Redefining the automotive experience is not without its challenges. We must break away from the ingrained habits of car culture and guide users towards a more sustainable perspective. This requires a paradigm shift in our design approach, prioritizing efficiency, shared mobility, and eco-conscious materials.
UX designers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of automotive UX. We have the power to influence user behavior, preferences, and expectations. By prioritizing sustainable design principles, we can create experiences that are not only environmentally friendly but also enjoyable and user-centric.
Embracing degrowth principles and prioritizing sustainability in automotive UX is not just an option; it is an imperative. As UX designers, we have the responsibility to shape the future of mobility, creating experiences that are both environmentally conscious and enjoyable for all.”
Key takeaways for the audience
- Prioritizing sustainability in UX design: Consider the environmental impact of your designs throughout the entire product lifecycle.
- Embrace degrowth principles: Design for shared mobility solutions and promote
- sustainable materials and manufacturing processes.
- Utilize user-centric design to enhance the user experience of EVs. Make EVs more appealing to a wider range of consumers.
- Collaborate with engineers and other stakeholders to drive systemic change. Work together to create a more sustainable automotive ecosystem.
- Advocate for degrowth and sustainability within the automotive industry: Be a catalyst for change and inspire others to follow suit.
Elizabeth Musanga is a Mechatronic engineering student from Nyeri, Kenya. She has a deep-rooted passion for the fusion of technology and innovation. Her current focus lies in the exciting realms of Machine Learning and Data Science, particularly within the Robotics and Automotive sector.
Elizabeth has a strong foundation in product design, complemented by skills in leadership, communication, and teamwork. She collaborates with startups, crafting compelling brand experiences aligned with their mission and vision, and is also an enthusiastic contributor to open-source projects that serve community needs.
Elizabeth is a strong advocate for women in tech and actively support initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion within the technology industry. She is also dedicated to building tech communities where knowledge-sharing and collaboration thrive.
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE HERE: https://uxcopenhagen.com/#tickets
