Custom Display and controller for Car Lift System
Custom Display and Control System for a Luxury Car Lift System
Overview
RDS collaborated with a luxury car-lift owner and installer to develop a bespoke, high-end display and control system for use with hydraulic vehicle lifts and integrated security systems. The objective was to replace traditional mechanical switches with a modern, intuitive and visually striking digital interface that matched the premium nature of the customer’s product.
The result is a flexible, globally deployed control solution that combines embedded computing, custom electronics and refined industrial design.
Challenge & Objectives
The client operates in the high-value sports and luxury car market, where both functionality and aesthetics are critical. Existing mechanical controls did not reflect the quality of the lift system or the expectations of end users.
Key objectives included:
A stylish, high-tech control interface suitable for luxury environments
Replacement of mechanical switches with a fully digital control system
Secure operation of a hydraulic jack and integrated security features
Support for live camera monitoring directly from the control interface
A flexible design allowing wall-mounted or pedestal installation
Robust construction suitable for long-term, global deployment
Design & Development
RDS led an iterative design and development programme in close collaboration with the customer. Several prototype units were developed and refined over a number of months within RDS’s in-house facility, ensuring the final system met both technical and aesthetic expectations.
The front interface uses a dead-front effect panel combined with capacitive touch switches, creating a clean, minimalist appearance when inactive while providing clear, responsive controls when in use.
The system integrates a camera module to support security and live monitoring, adding an additional layer of functionality beyond basic lift control.
The internal architecture was built around:
An embedded PC running Windows
Custom power control electronics, providing multiple I O channels via USB
Touch-enabled display technology for intuitive interaction
A custom metal enclosure designed for durability and visual appeal
The overall design was engineered to support multiple mounting configurations, allowing the same core system to be installed either on a pedestal or directly onto a wall.
Production & Deployment
Following successful prototype development and validation, the system moved into full production. The solution is now manufactured and installed worldwide, supporting the client’s international customer base.
RDS’s involvement ensured consistency from early concept through to production-ready hardware, enabling reliable replication of the design across multiple installations.
Outcome & Impact
The finished control system delivers a significant upgrade over traditional mechanical interfaces, both in terms of functionality and user experience. It modernises the operation of the car lift while enhancing security and usability.
The refined interface and integrated features provide a premium user experience that aligns with the luxury positioning of the lift system and the expectations of high-end vehicle owners.
Key Takeaways
Bespoke digital control system for luxury automotive applications
Dead-front capacitive interface for a clean, minimalist appearance
Integrated camera and security functionality
Flexible mounting options for varied installation environments
Iterative prototyping leading to a production-ready global solution
RDS specialises in custom embedded display and control systems where performance, reliability and design quality are equally important.
