Indiegogo accessory adds high-end physical buttons to Tesla Model 3

Eliminate the need for dangerous adjustments while driving with improved visibility.

The Tesla Model 3 and Y are known for their sleek, large displays, but some drivers may find them difficult to navigate while driving. A new gadget called the Ctrl-Bar, created by Greenmission, aims to improve the driving experience by providing physical buttons for easy access to frequently used features. The Ctrl-Bar has two knobs and two buttons that can be used to control the car's temperature, seat heaters, defrost mode, and more.

Greenmission, a Norway-based startup, has experience in creating Tesla accessories, as they currently sell a wireless charger for the Model S and X. The Ctrl-Bar is connected to the car via a hidden USB cable and is currently only compatible with the Model 3 and Y.

The Ctrl-Bar is created to seamlessly integrate with Tesla's display and it connects to your phone via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). However, it does not have a direct link to the car. To use the Ctrl-Bar, you must have the Greenmission app running on your phone and an internet connection. When you press a button or turn a knob, the command is sent to your phone first and then to the Tesla API to control the car.

The Ctrl-Bar, a new device for controlling a car's functions, may pose a problem with its potential lag between issuing a command and seeing it executed on the car's display. Greenmission has attempted to alleviate this by including a display on the device that shows the result of the action immediately, with the car's response happening in less than a second. This may still be an issue when multiple commands are inputted in succession.

The Ctrl-Bar also offers additional benefits such as LED lighting and speed trap warnings, with the possibility of more features being added through over-the-air updates. The project has reached over $18,000 in funding, with a goal of $27,216 and 20 days remaining to reach it. The Ctrl-Bar can be pre-ordered for $260.