Physical buttons could make a comeback thanks to a new safety regulation

Yahoo

06-03-2025

Over the past decade, automakers have increasingly replaced physical buttons and dials with sleek, minimalist touchscreens. From adjusting the climate control to activating windshield wipers, drivers of modern vehicles often have to navigate digital menus instead of simply pressing a button. While this trend has been driven by cost savings and aesthetics, safety regulators and consumers alike are pushing back.
A growing body of research suggests that touchscreens increase driver distraction, leading to higher accident risks. In response, the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) is introducing new safety rating criteria in 2026 that will require physical controls for key driving functions to achieve a coveted five-star rating. This move underscores a broader shift in the industry, as automakers are being forced to reconsider the balance between high-tech features and practical usability.Starting in January 2026, automakers seeking the highest safety rating from Euro NCAP must include physical controls for five critical functions: turn signals, hazard warning lights, horn, windshield wipers, and the emergency call (eCall) system.
The changes come amid growing concerns that over-reliance on touchscreens forces drivers to take their eyes off the road for extended periods. According to Matthew Avery, director of strategic development at Euro NCAP, 'The overuse of touchscreens is an industry-wide problem,' and addressing it is essential for safer driving. Euro NCAP's decision could set a precedent for safety organizations in other regions, potentially influencing regulations beyond Europe.Automakers initially introduced touchscreens as a way to modernize dashboards, simplify interfaces, and reduce manufacturing costs. Physical buttons and dials require complex wiring and additional materials, whereas a software-based interface can be updated remotely. Some of the biggest names in the industry, including Tesla, Mercedes, and Volkswagen, have gone all-in on touchscreens, eliminating traditional controls in favor of digital alternatives.
Tesla, for instance, has famously removed stalks for turn signals in some of its models, requiring drivers to use touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. The Volkswagen ID.7 forces drivers to control air vents through a screen-based climate control menu. Volvo's EX30 buries mirror adjustments and the rear window defroster within a sub-menu. While these design choices might streamline manufacturing and enhance visual appeal, they come at the cost of usability. Many drivers find it frustrating — and even dangerous — to perform basic functions through a screen, especially while moving.
Another key motivation behind the touchscreen revolution has been the rise of over-the-air (OTA) software updates. With digital interfaces, manufacturers can roll out new features and fix issues remotely, reducing the need for physical recalls. However, this approach often prioritizes software flexibility over user experience, leading to interfaces that are difficult to navigate while driving.As touchscreen-centric designs have proliferated, complaints from consumers, safety advocates, and industry experts have surged. Edmund King, president of the UK's Automobile Association (AA), recently tested the latest Tesla Model 3 and described the experience as 'daunting,' particularly due to the lack of any dashboard dials behind the steering wheel. He noted that 'car controls need to be intuitive for all drivers so they can concentrate on the road ahead rather than the screen to the side.'
Research supports these concerns. A report by the European Road Safety Observatory found that drivers engage in distracting activities for about half of all driving time, with infotainment systems being one of the primary culprits. Unlike traditional physical controls, which can be operated by feel, touchscreens require drivers to look at them, diverting their attention from the road. The backlash has also extended to repairability, as some touchscreen systems are costly to replace if they malfunction, creating an additional burden for car owners.While the new Euro NCAP safety standards are not legally binding, they hold significant weight. A five-star safety rating is a major selling point, and manufacturers strive to meet these benchmarks to reassure customers and regulators alike. Automakers that fail to comply risk losing their competitive edge in safety-conscious markets.
Some manufacturers have already started to shift their approach. Mazda, for example, has resisted the trend of eliminating physical controls, maintaining traditional buttons and dials for key functions. Toyota has also expressed skepticism about fully touchscreen-based interiors, opting for a mix of digital and physical interfaces. Other carmakers may soon follow suit as they adapt to the upcoming regulations.
Additionally, some automakers are looking at voice controls as a compromise. Advanced voice-activated systems could allow drivers to interact with vehicle functions without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. However, voice controls are not foolproof and may struggle with background noise, different accents, or complex commands. Some drivers also find them unreliable or unintuitive, meaning they are unlikely to be a complete replacement for physical buttons.The pushback against touchscreens marks a pivotal moment in automotive design. While digital interfaces are unlikely to disappear entirely, manufacturers will need to strike a better balance between aesthetics, cost efficiency, and driver safety. The upcoming Euro NCAP rules will likely accelerate this shift, encouraging carmakers to reintroduce physical controls where they are most needed.
For consumers, this is a welcome development. Cars should be designed for intuitive, safe operation — not just for a sleek, futuristic look. In the coming years, we may see automakers experimenting with hybrid approaches, integrating physical buttons for essential functions while maintaining digital interfaces for infotainment and navigation. Some brands may even use haptic feedback or contextual controls that dynamically adjust based on driving conditions.
As safety standards evolve, drivers may once again find themselves using familiar knobs and buttons instead of fumbling through endless digital menus. And in the end, that could save lives.
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