Summary
- Volkswagen is bringing back key controls in physical form starting with the ID.2 model
- All future models will have key controls in button form and no more touch panels on the steering wheel
- Mercedes also acknowledged screens are not ideal in cars and are considering a switch to buttons
- Euro NCAP will require physical controls for certain functions in cars starting in 2026 for safety ratings
- Manufacturers are slowly realizing that relying solely on touchscreens for car functions is flawed and are beginning to prioritize tactile controls for safety and user experience.
Article
Volkswagen Adopts Physical Controls in Key Functions for its Next Models
Volkswagen has announced that it will be bringing back physical buttons for key controls in its upcoming models, starting with the ID.2. This decision comes after years of complaints from car journalists and owners about the trend of touchscreens taking over the dashboard. The move acknowledges that having dedicated physical controls for important functions is a superior solution to touchscreens. The decision was confirmed by Andreas Mindt, VW’s design boss, who admitted that their previous approach was a mistake and that from now on, the five most crucial functions in a car will have physical buttons.
The Five Key Functions Getting Dedicated Controls in Volkswagen’s Models
The upcoming Volkswagen models will have dedicated physical controls for the five most important functions: volume, heating on each side of the car, fans, and hazard lights. These controls will be placed below the screen and will be present in all VW cars going forward. In addition to meeting driver preferences, this move also aligns with safety requirements from Euro NCAP, which will include these functions in its safety ratings starting in 2026. The presence of physical controls for key tasks can help reduce distractions and make driving safer, especially at high speeds.
Mercedes Follows Suit in Moving Away from Touchscreens
Volkswagen isn’t the only automaker rethinking the touchscreen trend. Mercedes has also acknowledged that screens in cars are not ideal, despite offering three gigantic screens in its latest models. Instead of screens, they have opted for buttons and knobs, recognizing the importance of tactile controls in enhancing the user experience. This shift in approach signals a broader industry recognition that touch-only interfaces have limitations when it comes to usability and safety, especially in a fast-paced driving environment.
The Role of Cost and Competition in the Shift to Physical Controls
The touchscreen trend in the automotive industry has been driven by cost considerations and competition. Manufacturers have felt pressured to incorporate large screens in their vehicles to attract customers, leading to the consolidation of controls into these screens. While this approach may be cost-effective initially, it has resulted in compromises that impact the user experience. Volkswagen and other companies are realizing that investing a little more in physical controls can significantly enhance driver satisfaction and safety, making it a worthwhile trade-off in the long run.
Lessons from Tesla’s Experience with Touchscreen Controls
Tesla, known for its innovative approach to technology in cars, was a pioneer in the touchscreen trend with models like the original Model S. While the large touchscreen initially impressed consumers and spurred competitors to follow suit, subsequent Tesla models showcased the limitations of touch-only interfaces. The removal of physical controls for important functions like turn signals and gear selectors led to questions about the practicality and safety of such designs. Tesla’s potential return to simplified physical controls suggests a reevaluation of the touchscreen-focused approach.
The Shift Back to Tactile Controls for Improved User Experience
The industry’s gradual shift back to tactile controls reflects a growing understanding of the importance of user experience and safety in vehicle design. Despite the allure of sleek touchscreen interfaces, manufacturers are recognizing the value of physical buttons and knobs in enhancing driver convenience and reducing distractions. By prioritizing tactile controls for critical functions, automakers like Volkswagen and Mercedes are aiming to create a more user-friendly and intuitive driving experience that prioritizes safety and ease of use.
Read the full article here
