Isn’t there an iOS app that runs CarPlay directly on an iOS device?

I can see the logic.

The head unit in my car doesn’t support CarPlay. it’s impossible to replace it with one that does because other functionality is integrated with the infotainment system.

It would be nice to have a simpler, CarPlay like interface on the phone itself while driving.

That makes no sense.

CarPlay lets you use your iPhone apps on your Car's built in screen.

Why would you need CarPlay on your iPhone? You can already use your apps on your iPhone directly why do you think you need CarPlay there?

While I can understand the need for a simpler interface, you can probably just make a specific Home Screen or folder with only the Apps you want to use in the car and open that when you get in the car and place the iPhone in a holder, rather than complete separate interface, which seems a bit unnecessary.

mehcl wrote:

It’s not clear that the native iOS interface can allow the split screen that CarPlay allows, for example 2/3 maps and 1/3 another app. I suppose Siri could voice control the apps in the same way, but the larger buttons and text are also a benefit of CarPlay mode.

True, on an iPhone Split Screen is not available.

An iPad on the other hand, does offer that option. An iPad mini might work for what you want in that case.

And there's always external after market Car Play units: https://www.amazon.com/Automatic-Multimedia-Bluetooth-Navigation-Vehicles/dp/B0B421845R/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=apple+carplay&qid=1689007296&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

No need to replace the current screen and its features.

No. There isn’t.

I have a 1991 car that I use a phone mount for in lieu of a gaudy 10” screen on the dash. So having the ability to simulate car play on my phone would be great for that use case