Ford’s next generation of vehicle interiors could be far more customizable than ever before. The automaker has filed a patent for interchangeable interior components, a system that would allow future Ford models to use modular parts that can be swapped or rearranged to suit the driver’s needs.

Filed on February 17, 2025, and published on October 2, 2025, the patent describes a modular base system that could support different types of components — from touchscreens and climate controls to entire center consoles and digital instrument panels. The idea is to create a flexible interior that can be upgraded or reconfigured without replacing the vehicle itself.

Today’s vehicles are largely built with integrated hardware, meaning that core features like multimedia systems and HVAC controls are fixed in place. Ford’s new concept reimagines that structure, introducing a standardized interface that allows compatible components to be easily installed, removed, or upgraded as technology evolves.

Such an approach could make personalization easier and extend vehicle lifespans by reducing the need for full redesigns or replacements. Instead of trading in for the latest tech, owners could simply swap out a new display or updated console — much like changing a module on a computer.

Ford has recently filed several patents focused on vehicle flexibility and interior usability, including ideas for deployable work surfaces and mobile office features. This latest concept aligns with that same vision — one where a Ford cabin can adapt to work, play, or future technologies with minimal effort.

While Ford notes that patents don’t always translate directly into production features, the idea of a modular, upgradable interior reflects a growing trend toward sustainable design and long-term ownership value. It’s a glimpse at how Ford is thinking ahead — building vehicles that can evolve right alongside their drivers.