Volvo Centum is Dalton Maag's new typeface for Volvo

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Software & Reliability Concerns

  • Multiple Volvo EV owners describe serious, recurring software bugs: erratic AC charging schedules (DST shifts, random time zones, ignored limits), infotainment audio failures, and unstable Android Automotive OS (AAOS) updates with vague “various fixes” notes.
  • Some owners are actively avoiding OS upgrades due to fear of regressions.
  • This fuels frustration that Volvo appears to prioritize fonts and nicknames over basic reliability and UX stability.

Touchscreens vs Physical Controls

  • Many argue that large central tablets and touch-only climate controls conflict with Volvo’s safety-oriented image and increase distraction compared to physical buttons/knobs.
  • Others counter that voice controls (e.g., “hey Google, turn on seat heating”) and steering-wheel buttons work well and can be safer than reaching for controls, though there’s concern about kids or mis-recognition.
  • There is nostalgia for older Volvos and other brands where controls were operable entirely by feel, with minimal text and no screens.

Branding & Purpose of a Custom Typeface

  • Some question why a carmaker needs its own font, seeing it as generic, non-innovative, and primarily a branding exercise.
  • Others note that staying “top of mind” requires constant brand work, and a bespoke typeface becomes a subconscious part of identity, similar to previous functional fonts in aviation.
  • Several commenters praise the font’s proportions, balance, and modern, minimal feel; others find it bland or insufficiently legible (O vs 0, I vs l).

Legibility, Safety Claims & Typography

  • Skeptics see “designed for safety” marketing around the font as hollow when more impactful safety wins (physical buttons, better UX, fixing software bugs) are outstanding.
  • Some point out research suggesting other font styles may be more legible, and note specific glyph design “blunders.”
  • Others respond that in a car UI, ambiguous code-like strings are rare; fonts are tuned for glanceable, contextual reading, not programming.
  • A minority defends this work as legitimate safety-related UX refinement, often outsourced, and not mutually exclusive with engineering fixes.

Volvo’s Identity & Ownership

  • Long sub-thread debates whether Volvo is “Swedish,” “Chinese,” or hybrid, weighing origin, HQ, ownership (Geely majority), design location, workforce, and manufacturing.
  • Opinions differ on how much Chinese ownership affects quality culture and safety priorities, with contrasting anecdotes about reliability of recent Chinese-built Volvos.