Handschuhkästen

Handschuhkästen, often translated as glove compartments or glove boxes, are storage compartments found in vehicles. They are typically located in the dashboard, in front of the passenger seat. The primary purpose of a handschuhkasten is to provide a secure and accessible place for drivers and passengers to store small personal items.

These compartments are usually designed with a hinged lid that opens to reveal the storage space. The size and design of handschuhkästen can vary significantly between different car models and manufacturers. Some may be simple, open spaces, while others might include dividers, small trays, or even cooling functions. Historically, they were often used to store a car's manual, registration documents, and sometimes gloves, hence the name.

In modern vehicles, handschuhkästen serve a broader range of purposes. They are commonly used for storing items such as mobile phones, sunglasses, coins, pens, maps, and other personal effects that a driver or passenger might need during a journey. The lockable nature of some handschuhkästen also allows for the secure storage of more valuable items. The accessibility of the handschuhkasten makes it a convenient and integral part of a vehicle's interior design.