Can cars be caring: How wellness trends in the automotive space will transform future vehicles

A Sense of Well-Being 

Much of the future sensor and camera technology in the automotive industry is reactive, stepping in when something goes wrong. But there’s also a strong argument for using innovation to introduce preventative measures.

The same cameras and sensors that monitor stress levels can work proactively, with artificial intelligence detecting subtle changes in a driver’s voice or speech patterns that signal an impending mood shift.

At this point, the vehicle could adjust ambient lighting, play a calming soundtrack through Polestar’s renowned speaker system, or activate a gentle massage function in the seats.

If that fails, the vehicle might suggest a break and, once parked, launch a guided meditation session via Polestar’s Breathe app—an increasingly popular feature among Polestar owners.

With hypnotic animations, therapeutic soundscapes, and easy-to-follow breathwork instructions, the app is designed to clear the mind, reduce stress, and enhance focus.

“It’s basically a guided breathing tool that helps ground the user. So, before going to work or heading home to chaos, you can take a moment to relax,” explains Johanna Øien, a UX Designer within the Polestar Innovation team.

Beyond stress relief, this future suite of sensors, lighting, sound, and AI could also boost positive moods—playing an uplifting soundtrack, opening the panoramic roof blinds, or even shifting into a sportier driving mode when the navigation system detects an open road ahead.