EcoRo is an energy-conscious electric vehicle interface designed to support drivers in saving energy, monitoring driving behavior, and reducing their carbon footprint on every trip.
EcoRo is an energy-conscious electric vehicle interface designed to support drivers in saving energy, monitoring driving behavior, and reducing their carbon footprint on every trip.
EcoRo is an energy-conscious electric vehicle interface designed to support drivers in saving energy, monitoring driving behavior, and reducing their carbon footprint on every trip.
MY ROLE
MY ROLE
MY ROLE
End-to-End Visual Design
Motion Design
Interaction Design
Design Decisions
Usability Test
Quality Control
End-to-End Visual Design
Motion Design
Interaction Design
Design Decisions
Usability Test
Quality Control
End-to-End Visual Design
Motion Design
Interaction Design
Design Decisions
Usability Test
Quality Control
3D RENDERING & MOTION
3D RENDERING & MOTION
3D RENDERING & MOTION
Rhino
Twinmotion
Rhino
Twinmotion
Rhino
Twinmotion
GRAPHICS & PROTOTYPE
GRAPHICS & PROTOTYPE
GRAPHICS & PROTOTYPE
Figma
Photoshop
Illustrator
Figma
Photoshop
Illustrator
Figma
Photoshop
Illustrator
TEAM
Eileen Zhang - PM
Eileen Zhang - PM
PLATFORM
Android Automotive OS
Android Automotive OS
YEAR
YEAR
2023
TEAM
TEAM
Eileen Zhang - PM
Eileen Zhang - PM
PLATFORM
PLATFORM
Android Automotive OS
Android Automotive OS
YEAR
YEAR
2023
2023
Designing for Energy-Conscious Driving
Designing for Energy-Conscious Driving
Designing for Energy-Conscious Driving
As fuel prices climb and climate concerns intensify, energy-efficient driving has become a necessity. Yet most EV drivers — both current and potential — lack clear, real-time guidance to improve their driving behavior.
As fuel prices climb and climate concerns intensify, energy-efficient driving has become a necessity. Yet most EV drivers — both current and potential — lack clear, real-time guidance to improve their driving behavior.
As fuel prices climb and climate concerns intensify, energy-efficient driving has become a necessity. Yet most EV drivers — both current and potential — lack clear, real-time guidance to improve their driving behavior.
Driving Change: What Today’s Consumers Want
Driving Change: What Today’s Consumers Want
Driving Change: What Today’s Consumers Want
More consumers are ready to go electric — not just for innovation, but to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
More consumers are ready to go electric — not just for innovation, but to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
More consumers are ready to go electric — not just for innovation, but to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
The Barrier Behind the Hype
The Barrier Behind the Hype
The Barrier Behind the Hype
Still, many drivers worry about charging access and how far their EV can really go — both closely tied to energy use. According to Consumer Reports’ largest national EV survey, 58% of people said range anxiety was a key reason they wouldn’t buy an electric car.
Still, many drivers worry about charging access and how far their EV can really go — both closely tied to energy use. According to Consumer Reports’ largest national EV survey, 58% of people said range anxiety was a key reason they wouldn’t buy an electric car.
Still, many drivers worry about charging access and how far their EV can really go — both closely tied to energy use. According to Consumer Reports’ largest national EV survey, 58% of people said range anxiety was a key reason they wouldn’t buy an electric car.
Source: Volvo
Source: Volvo
Source: Volvo
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
Most EV drivers make the switch for two reasons: to lower their carbon footprint and save money. In fact, 76% agree that being environmentally responsible matters to them.
Most EV drivers make the switch for two reasons: to lower their carbon footprint and save money. In fact, 76% agree that being environmentally responsible matters to them.
Most EV drivers make the switch for two reasons: to lower their carbon footprint and save money. In fact, 76% agree that being environmentally responsible matters to them.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
Source: CR nationally representative survey of 8,027 U.S. adults conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 18, 2022. Includes "definitely buy" (14%) and "seriously consider" (22%) responses.
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
When Tech Outpaces Understanding
EV education hasn’t kept up with how fast the industry is growing. Most drivers don’t really know how to get the most range out of their car in everyday driving.
EV education hasn’t kept up with how fast the industry is growing. Most drivers don’t really know how to get the most range out of their car in everyday driving.
EV education hasn’t kept up with how fast the industry is growing. Most drivers don’t really know how to get the most range out of their car in everyday driving.
Source: MYEV.com
Source: MYEV.com
Source: MYEV.com
How might we support EV drivers in making smarter driving decisions that save both energy and money on every trip?
How might we support EV drivers in making smarter driving decisions that save both energy and money on every trip?
How might we support EV drivers in making smarter driving decisions that save both energy and money on every trip?
To address this, we designed a navigation system focused on real-time driving support and post-trip insights — helping EV drivers drive smarter with more confidence.
To address this, we designed a navigation system focused on real-time driving support and post-trip insights — helping EV drivers drive smarter with more confidence.
To address this, we designed a navigation system focused on real-time driving support and post-trip insights — helping EV drivers drive smarter with more confidence.
FEATURE 1
FEATURE 1
Eco-Switch
Eco-Switch
Eco-Switch
Energy-saving mode with a single tap
Energy-saving mode with a single tap
Energy-saving mode with a single tap
Chill or Extreme modes with customizable settings for different driving styles
Chill or Extreme modes with customizable settings for different driving styles
Chill or Extreme modes with customizable settings for different driving styles
FEATURE 2
FEATURE 2
Eco-Route
Eco-Route
Eco-Route
Multiple route suggestions with estimated savings and travel time
Multiple route suggestions with estimated savings and travel time
Multiple route suggestions with estimated savings and travel time
Energy efficiency tracker with eco-route performance metrics
Energy efficiency tracker with eco-route performance metrics
Energy efficiency tracker with eco-route performance metrics
FEATURE 3
FEATURE 3
Driving Tips
Driving Tips
Driving Tips
A real-time suggestions to help improve driving efficiency from the AI assistant
A real-time suggestions to help improve driving efficiency from the AI assistant
A real-time suggestions to help improve driving efficiency from the AI assistant
Live dashboard with average mileage and projected range
Live dashboard with average mileage and projected range
Live dashboard with average mileage and projected range
FEATURE 4
FEATURE 4
Trip Report
Trip Report
Trip Report
Driving report with energy consumption, carbon emissions, and driving behavior data
Driving report with energy consumption, carbon emissions, and driving behavior data
Driving report with energy consumption, carbon emissions, and driving behavior data
Friends leaderboard to encourage community engagement
Friends leaderboard to encourage community engagement
Friends leaderboard to encourage community engagement
Understanding the Gaps in Today’s EV Experience
Understanding the Gaps in Today’s EV Experience
Understanding the Gaps in Today’s EV Experience
To understand user needs and behaviors, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 EV and potential EV drivers. Open-ended questions encouraged participants to think out loud and share details about their driving habits, motivations, and concerns.
To understand user needs and behaviors, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 EV and potential EV drivers. Open-ended questions encouraged participants to think out loud and share details about their driving habits, motivations, and concerns.
To understand user needs and behaviors, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 EV and potential EV drivers. Open-ended questions encouraged participants to think out loud and share details about their driving habits, motivations, and concerns.
Energy Feedback Gaps
Energy Feedback Gaps
Energy Feedback Gaps
Only Tesla provides real-time energy diagrams. Drivers found them helpful, but still not easy to access or read while driving.
Only Tesla provides real-time energy diagrams. Drivers found them helpful, but still not easy to access or read while driving.
Only Tesla provides real-time energy diagrams. Drivers found them helpful, but still not easy to access or read while driving.
Limited Customization
Limited Customization
Limited Customization
Most EV brands offer energy-saving modes, but few allow flexible, personalized settings.
Most EV brands offer energy-saving modes, but few allow flexible, personalized settings.
Most EV brands offer energy-saving modes, but few allow flexible, personalized settings.
AI Guidance
AI Guidance
AI Guidance
Participants showed interest in intelligent assistants that offer real-time driving tips for better efficiency.
Participants showed interest in intelligent assistants that offer real-time driving tips for better efficiency.
Participants showed interest in intelligent assistants that offer real-time driving tips for better efficiency.
Driving Reports
Driving Reports
Driving Reports
Users valued post-trip reports showing driving efficiency. Some suggested integrating this data with insurance incentives.
Users valued post-trip reports showing driving efficiency. Some suggested integrating this data with insurance incentives.
Users valued post-trip reports showing driving efficiency. Some suggested integrating this data with insurance incentives.
User Journey
User Journey
User Journey
I was envisioning a scenario in which the user is trying to drive back home with a low battery.
I was envisioning a scenario in which the user is trying to drive back home with a low battery.
I was envisioning a scenario in which the user is trying to drive back home with a low battery.
User Journey
User Journey
User Journey
Designing an Ecosystem
Designing an Ecosystem
Designing an Ecosystem
Based on our research insights and opportunity areas, we designed an ecosystem to support and motivate EV drivers to drive more efficiently.
Based on our research insights and opportunity areas, we designed an ecosystem to support and motivate EV drivers to drive more efficiently.
Based on our research insights and opportunity areas, we designed an ecosystem to support and motivate EV drivers to drive more efficiently.
Information Architecture
Information Architecture
Information Architecture
Mapping Concepts Across the Drive
Mapping Concepts Across the Drive
Mapping Concepts Across the Drive
I kicked off with a brainstorming session to explore bold ideas across the EV driving journey. Feasibility was set aside to encourage creative thinking. I mapped five key stages of the user journey, then refined our concepts into a more cohesive and realistic system.
I kicked off with a brainstorming session to explore bold ideas across the EV driving journey. Feasibility was set aside to encourage creative thinking. I mapped five key stages of the user journey, then refined our concepts into a more cohesive and realistic system.
I kicked off with a brainstorming session to explore bold ideas across the EV driving journey. Feasibility was set aside to encourage creative thinking. I mapped five key stages of the user journey, then refined our concepts into a more cohesive and realistic system.
User Flow
User Flow
User Flow
A Day in the Life of an EV Driver
A Day in the Life of an EV Driver
A Day in the Life of an EV Driver
I kicked off the Crazy Eight exercise with a focused user journey:
After work, Veronica gets into her EV and sees the battery is at 30%. She turns on Saving Mode and heads home, hoping to stretch the remaining charge. Once she arrives, she plugs in to recharge before her next trip.
I kicked off the Crazy Eight exercise with a focused user journey:
After work, Veronica gets into her EV and sees the battery is at 30%. She turns on Saving Mode and heads home, hoping to stretch the remaining charge. Once she arrives, she plugs in to recharge before her next trip.
I kicked off the Crazy Eight exercise with a focused user journey:
After work, Veronica gets into her EV and sees the battery is at 30%. She turns on Saving Mode and heads home, hoping to stretch the remaining charge. Once she arrives, she plugs in to recharge before her next trip.
Navigation Sketch
Navigation Sketch
Navigation Sketch
Mid-Fi
Mid-Fi
Mid-Fi
With all wireframes laid out, we built an interactive mid-fi prototype to test the user flow. This gave us a clearer view of how the Eco-driving dashboard might look and behave in context.
We went through several rounds of iteration, refining key elements like the Eco-driving toggle, main panel, search bar, settings bar, and report panel.
With all wireframes laid out, we built an interactive mid-fi prototype to test the user flow. This gave us a clearer view of how the Eco-driving dashboard might look and behave in context.
We went through several rounds of iteration, refining key elements like the Eco-driving toggle, main panel, search bar, settings bar, and report panel.
With all wireframes laid out, we built an interactive mid-fi prototype to test the user flow. This gave us a clearer view of how the Eco-driving dashboard might look and behave in context.
We went through several rounds of iteration, refining key elements like the Eco-driving toggle, main panel, search bar, settings bar, and report panel.
Mid-Fi
Mid-Fi
Mid-Fi
Reframing
Reframing
Reframing
We continued refining the mid-fidelity wireframes across different widgets and panels to clearly structure the Eco-driving experience. The process was mapped into five key steps, with each component serving a specific function within the EV dashboard system.
We continued refining the mid-fidelity wireframes across different widgets and panels to clearly structure the Eco-driving experience. The process was mapped into five key steps, with each component serving a specific function within the EV dashboard system.
We continued refining the mid-fidelity wireframes across different widgets and panels to clearly structure the Eco-driving experience. The process was mapped into five key steps, with each component serving a specific function within the EV dashboard system.
Refined User Flow
Refined User Flow
Refined User Flow
Crafting the Driver Experience
Crafting the Driver Experience
Crafting the Driver Experience
I translated user insights into a clean, structured interface that supports energy awareness and smooth interaction throughout the EV driving journey.
I translated user insights into a clean, structured interface that supports energy awareness and smooth interaction throughout the EV driving journey.
I translated user insights into a clean, structured interface that supports energy awareness and smooth interaction throughout the EV driving journey.
Task-Based Prototype Validation
Task-Based Prototype Validation
Task-Based Prototype Validation
We broke down the prototypes into 5 main tasks, corresponding to the user flow. Next, we conducted the second round of user testing.
We broke down the prototypes into 5 main tasks, corresponding to the user flow. Next, we conducted the second round of user testing.
We broke down the prototypes into 5 main tasks, corresponding to the user flow. Next, we conducted the second round of user testing.
Loading time may be affected by high-resolution animations. Thank you for your patience.
Loading time may be affected by high-resolution animations. Thank you for your patience.
Loading time may be affected by high-resolution animations. Thank you for your patience.
Eco-Switch
Eco-Switch
Test Case 1: Turn on Eco-driving mode
Test Case 1: Turn on Eco-driving mode
Test Case 1: Turn on Eco-driving mode
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
A simple, one-step toggle to activate Eco-driving mode.
A simple, one-step toggle to activate Eco-driving mode.
A simple, one-step toggle to activate Eco-driving mode.
Justification
Justification
rivers want quick access to energy-saving features. Requiring multiple steps to turn on saving mode creates frustration and interrupts the flow.
rivers want quick access to energy-saving features. Requiring multiple steps to turn on saving mode creates frustration and interrupts the flow.
rivers want quick access to energy-saving features. Requiring multiple steps to turn on saving mode creates frustration and interrupts the flow.
Progressive Side Panel
Progressive Side Panel
Test Case 2: Check Car Condition
Test Case 2: Check Car Condition
Test Case 2: Check Car Condition
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
Adjustable panel height reveals progressive information levels.
Adjustable panel height reveals progressive information levels.
Adjustable panel height reveals progressive information levels.
Justification
Justification
Allows drivers to customize the visual hierarchy of the display, enhancing clarity and tailoring the driving experience to individual preferences.
Allows drivers to customize the visual hierarchy of the display, enhancing clarity and tailoring the driving experience to individual preferences.
Allows drivers to customize the visual hierarchy of the display, enhancing clarity and tailoring the driving experience to individual preferences.
Setting Panel
Setting Panel
Test Case 3: Adjust Eco-Setting
Test Case 3: Adjust Eco-Setting
Test Case 3: Adjust Eco-Setting
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
Two power-saving modes, Saving and Extreme, optimize energy use based on battery levels.
Two power-saving modes, Saving and Extreme, optimize energy use based on battery levels.
Two power-saving modes, Saving and Extreme, optimize energy use based on battery levels.
Justification
Justification
When battery drops below a set threshold, the system auto-switches to Extreme mode to preserve essential functions and extend driving range.
When battery drops below a set threshold, the system auto-switches to Extreme mode to preserve essential functions and extend driving range.
When battery drops below a set threshold, the system auto-switches to Extreme mode to preserve essential functions and extend driving range.
Eco-Route
Eco-Route
Test Case 4: Choose Energy-Saving Route
Test Case 4: Choose Energy-Saving Route
Test Case 4: Choose Energy-Saving Route
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
Navigation system presents multiple routes, prioritizing and highlighting the most energy-efficient option.
Navigation system presents multiple routes, prioritizing and highlighting the most energy-efficient option.
Navigation system presents multiple routes, prioritizing and highlighting the most energy-efficient option.
Justification
Justification
Traditional navigation favors speed over sustainability. This EV-specific approach guides drivers toward routes optimized for lower energy usage.
Traditional navigation favors speed over sustainability. This EV-specific approach guides drivers toward routes optimized for lower energy usage.
Traditional navigation favors speed over sustainability. This EV-specific approach guides drivers toward routes optimized for lower energy usage.
Live Monitoring
Live Monitoring
Test Case 5: Monitor and Interpret Energy Use While Driving
Test Case 5: Monitor and Interpret Energy Use While Driving
Test Case 5: Monitor and Interpret Energy Use While Driving
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
Real-time energy diagram and indicators, with a digital assistant offering live energy-saving tips.
Real-time energy diagram and indicators, with a digital assistant offering live energy-saving tips.
Real-time energy diagram and indicators, with a digital assistant offering live energy-saving tips.
Justification
Justification
Drivers prefer quick, easy-to-read feedback to stay aware of energy usage without distraction.
Drivers prefer quick, easy-to-read feedback to stay aware of energy usage without distraction.
Drivers prefer quick, easy-to-read feedback to stay aware of energy usage without distraction.
Trip Insights
Trip Insights
Test Case 6: Check Trip Report
Test Case 6: Check Trip Report
Test Case 6: Check Trip Report
Final Design
Final Design
Feature
Feature
Displays energy and cost savings, driving score, and potential insurance discounts.
Displays energy and cost savings, driving score, and potential insurance discounts.
Displays energy and cost savings, driving score, and potential insurance discounts.
Justification
Justification
Gives drivers clear insights into energy use, emissions, and driving habits, plus actionable tips to boost efficiency and cut costs.
Gives drivers clear insights into energy use, emissions, and driving habits, plus actionable tips to boost efficiency and cut costs.
Gives drivers clear insights into energy use, emissions, and driving habits, plus actionable tips to boost efficiency and cut costs.
UX-to-Dev Pipeline
UX-to-Dev Pipeline
UX-to-Dev Pipeline
I worked closely with the dev team to define a scalable design handoff workflow. Instead of pushing everything at once, I introduced a phased rollout using design sprints — giving the team time to dev, test, and adapt.
I worked closely with the dev team to define a scalable design handoff workflow. Instead of pushing everything at once, I introduced a phased rollout using design sprints — giving the team time to dev, test, and adapt.
I worked closely with the dev team to define a scalable design handoff workflow. Instead of pushing everything at once, I introduced a phased rollout using design sprints — giving the team time to dev, test, and adapt.
User Testing & Iterations
User Testing & Iterations
User Testing & Iterations
We ran usability testing with prospective users to evaluate the EcoRo dashboard’s clarity and impact. After a brief walkthrough of the project goals and system features, participants interacted with a working prototype while providing real-time feedback.
We ran usability testing with prospective users to evaluate the EcoRo dashboard’s clarity and impact. After a brief walkthrough of the project goals and system features, participants interacted with a working prototype while providing real-time feedback.
We ran usability testing with prospective users to evaluate the EcoRo dashboard’s clarity and impact. After a brief walkthrough of the project goals and system features, participants interacted with a working prototype while providing real-time feedback.
Key Findings
Key Findings
Key Findings
The driving report stood out — users found it highly informative, especially in tracking daily energy usage and savings.
The Eco Mode toggle was well-received — praised for its simplicity and ease of access.
Usability gaps emerged — we categorized the issues and applied targeted refinements across design iterations to enhance clarity and navigation.
These sessions gave us actionable insights, leading to a more intuitive dashboard that supports energy-efficient driving and promotes sustainable habits.
The driving report stood out — users found it highly informative, especially in tracking daily energy usage and savings.
The Eco Mode toggle was well-received — praised for its simplicity and ease of access.
Usability gaps emerged — we categorized the issues and applied targeted refinements across design iterations to enhance clarity and navigation.
These sessions gave us actionable insights, leading to a more intuitive dashboard that supports energy-efficient driving and promotes sustainable habits.
The driving report stood out — users found it highly informative, especially in tracking daily energy usage and savings.
The Eco Mode toggle was well-received — praised for its simplicity and ease of access.
Usability gaps emerged — we categorized the issues and applied targeted refinements across design iterations to enhance clarity and navigation.
These sessions gave us actionable insights, leading to a more intuitive dashboard that supports energy-efficient driving and promotes sustainable habits.
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About Me
A lifelong learner, driven by curiosity and inspired by diverse perspectives, always humbled by the wisdom of many. With over four years of experience, I’ve worked across enterprise, R&D, startups, and consumer-facing digital and physical products, primarily within healthcare, commercial sectors, and urban design.
© 2025 DEREK CHAI
© 2025 DEREK CHAI
About Me
A lifelong learner, driven by curiosity and inspired by diverse perspectives, always humbled by the wisdom of many. With over four years of experience, I’ve worked across enterprise, R&D, startups, and consumer-facing digital and physical products, primarily within healthcare, commercial sectors, and urban design.
© 2025 DEREK CHAI