In a recent announcement, the European Safety Agency has issued a stark warning regarding the dangers associated with touch screens in cars. Euro NCAP, a leading safety assessment organization, is urging drivers to prioritize safety by reverting to physical buttons instead of touchscreens for critical vehicle controls.
Concerns Over Touchscreens
As automotive technology has advanced, incorporating features like autonomous driving and alternative fuel sources, one notable innovation has been the integration of touch screens into vehicle dashboards. However, the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) has raised concerns, asserting that touch screens pose significant risks to drivers. In response, they recommend reverting to physical buttons for essential controls.
According to Interesting Engineering, this announcement follows the growing trend of large touchscreen displays in modern vehicles. Models like the Volvo EX30 boast minimal physical buttons, relying heavily on touchscreen interfaces. Euro NCAP views this trend as a potential source of distraction, highlighting the importance of prioritizing safety over technological advancements in automotive design.
According to KTLA, the Euro NCAP insists that specific features such as turn signals, hazard lights, and more must be controlled by physical buttons rather than touch screens for a vehicle to receive a 5-star crash rating. (via Interesting Engineering)
Matthew Avery, Euro NCAP’s director of strategic development, underscored the industry-wide concern regarding the excessive use of touch screens. Avery noted that many vehicle manufacturers are transitioning essential controls to central touchscreens, posing a risk of distracting drivers and potentially leading to accidents.
“The overuse of touchscreens is an industry-wide problem. Almost every vehicle maker is moving key controls onto central touchscreens, obliging drivers to take their eyes off the road and raising the risk of distraction crashes,” said Matthew Avery.
While Euro NCAP lacks regulatory power, its sway over safety assessments could prompt automakers to reassess their reliance on touchscreen controls. Their firm recommendation encompasses all technological interfaces within vehicles, with compliance potentially affecting safety ratings.
Avery elaborated, stating that forthcoming Euro NCAP evaluations in 2026 will encourage manufacturers to incorporate separate, physical controls for basic functions in a user-friendly manner. This approach aims to minimize the time drivers spend with their eyes off the road, promoting safer driving practices.
“New Euro NCAP tests due in 2026 will encourage manufacturers to use separate, physical controls for basic functions in an intuitive manner, limiting eyes-off-road time and therefore promoting safer driving,” Avery said.
Difference from US Rules
In contrast to Europe’s approach, distracted driving campaigns in the United States typically target cellphone usage. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have not proposed a similar requirement, states like Michigan have enforced bans on handheld phone use while driving. However, with growing concerns over pedestrian safety and the rise in incidents of distracted driving, scrutiny over touchscreen usage in vehicles is expected to intensify, likely sparking discussions shortly.
Tesla’s Role
Tesla, renowned for its innovation in vehicle technology, has been a central figure in the debate over touchscreens in cars. The company’s models often feature large, centrally placed touchscreens that control a wide array of functions. While Tesla has defended its approach as enhancing user experience and reducing clutter, Euro NCAP’s warning suggests a potential need for reconsideration.
As cars evolve and technology continues to advance, ensuring driver safety remains paramount. Euro NCAP’s warning regarding touch screens in cars serves as a timely reminder for both automakers and drivers to prioritize safety over convenience and technological innovation. With potential changes on the horizon, the way vehicles are designed and evaluated may undergo significant shifts to ensure safer roads for all.
