Instrument
Panel
An instrument panel is a multifunctional platform that, in
an automobile, displays information on the vehicle’s status
(e.g. speed, distance traveled), performance, location, and
well-being. It is also home to a variety of controls, heating
and ventilation outlets, and other features such as storage
access. Behind the instrument panel may be a variety of other
components including the passenger airbag, ventilation, air conditioning, and screen demisting
systems, and important structural cross-member. The modern-day
instrument represents an evolution of the traditional dashboard, which was itself a development of the wooden
board that prevented stones from the road being “dashed” upon
the driver and occupants of Victorian horse-drawn carriages.
Switches and controls not essential to the running of the
vehicle (e.g., associated heating and cooling, and radio and
CD/MP3) are typically located in a central console, or on
stalks or the steering wheel. Electric window and seat adjustment
switches tend to be positioned out of direct line of sight
on doors or armrests.
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