The debate on the use of touch screens in modern cars is gaining momentum, with automobile manufacturers and road safety authorities at odds over the issue. In both Europe and the United States, concerns are being raised about the potential distraction caused by excessive reliance on touch screens for various functions within the vehicle.
While iconic brands like Alfa Romeo have opted to maintain physical buttons for key controls in their models, other manufacturers such as Audi and Chinese brands are increasing the use of touch screens. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the US and Euro NCAP in Europe have both expressed reservations about the widespread adoption of touch screens in cars.
Euro NCAP has launched a program called “Vision 2030” to address the issue of driver distraction caused by touch screens. The organization’s development director, Matthew Avery, has highlighted the need for manufacturers to re-evaluate their use of touch screens and prioritize safety on the road. Euro NCAP’s upcoming tests will focus on promoting the use of physical controls in cars to reduce distractions and improve overall safety.
German manufacturers like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have started to scale back on touch functions in their upcoming models, while Tesla continues to lead the market with a high number of digital functions in their vehicles. The industry-wide shift towards reconsidering the use of touch screens reflects a growing recognition of the importance of ensuring safety on the road for all drivers.