Buttons may be coming back to touchscreen-heavy cars. Two countries have recently taken steps to require buttons for certain functions because paging through touchscreen menus can be distracting.
None of the rules apply in the U.S. But automakers often sell the same cars in many countries, so a stricter rule overseas can change cars sold in America.
European automakers are reworking interior car design after the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP, Europe’s car safety program) updated its assessment protocols. The new rules required buttons for turn signals, wipers, hazard lights, the horn, and SOS to receive a coveted five-star rating.
Related: Buttons Are Coming Back to Cars, but They Will Take Time
Automakers choosing to stick with popular touchscreens will have points deducted from their Euro NCAP safety evaluation. While Euro NCAP safety ratings are used in marketing, they are not required by European law.
“The thinking is that the risk of crashes increases as drivers hunt through touchscreen menus to access basic functions,” says Automotive News Europe.
Some brands have already begun switching it up. Volkswagen shifted away from the touchscreen for its new ID Polo, a car not sold in the U.S. The new-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC and CLA are equipped with a steering wheel featuring switches, rotary controls, and buttons.
European automakers will have a 3-year window to redesign interiors to qualify for the top Euro NCAP safety score.
Europe might just be the beginning. Bloomberg reported that similar requirements could become law in China.
