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If you happened to catch the introduction of the GMC Sierra EV electric pickup truck, you might have observed a familiar element in its interior display. Attached to the screen is a petite knob, presumably for regulating the volume, and it bears a striking resemblance to the touchscreen dial present in the Mustang Mach E. Upon noticing this similarity, Ford designer Ryan McManus playfully poked fun at his competitor on Twitter.
The “Sync knob” in the Mustang Mach E stands out as a notable feature of its interior, offering users a physical means of controlling certain functions of the infotainment system. While the majority of the system operates through its extensive touchscreen, the Sync knob provides a tangible interaction point, enhancing convenience during driving. Given the positive reception from customers, it’s understandable that GM would opt for a similar technology. And so they did.
The new Sierra EV from GMC showcases its own version of a knob for the infotainment system, though not an exact replica. It’s easy to mistake McManus’ jest as a sign of Ford being copied by GM. In reality, the credit goes more to their shared supplier—Preh.
Preh, a German provider of automotive components, is the mastermind behind the touchscreen-based physical dial that both the Ford Mustang Mach E and GMC Sierra EV incorporate. This dial design physically adheres to the screen and is then programmed to manage specific functions of the infotainment system. While volume control is the primary function, the dial also offers directional tilting to operate other features.
Despite both brands adopting Preh’s touchscreen dial technology, each has customized the design and touchpoints to reflect their individual styles. While Ford’s dial is larger (hold your laughter) with more knurling on the edge, GM’s version is slightly smaller and features a smoother edge. Nonetheless, both brand’s dials serve the same purpose.
In the grand scheme of things, it’s more of a “Who executed it better” scenario, with neither brand harboring any genuine animosity over this matter. It is common for car manufacturers to share parts suppliers, making this occurrence unsurprising. Particularly with a groundbreaking component from Preh, a supplier that caters to a wide range of automobile brands beyond just Ford and GM. Nonetheless, it serves as a light-hearted jest between rival brands.
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