The invention relates to an automotive operating system comprising an optical display unit for displaying at least one operating function and at least one manual actuating element associated with the optical display unit for operating the at least one displayed operating function. According to the invention, the system is provided with at least one additional manual actuating element and at least one sensor which detects if the at least one additional actuating element is approached, whereby an operating function associated with the additional manual actuating element is displayed on the optical display unit once such an approach is detected. The inventive system is used e.g. in motor vehicles.
