The European New Vehicle Assessment Program (NCAP), an independent safety agency, announced that from January 2026, automakers must include physical controls for basic functions such as indicators, hazard warning lights, windshield wipers, SOS calls and horn to achieve full performance. five-star safety rating.

Why is this necessary?

This move aims to reduce driver distraction, which is the leading cause of traffic accidents. According to NCAP, touchscreens force drivers to take their eyes off the road and navigate complex menus; Buttons and dials can be controlled by touch and muscle memory.

NCAP’s decision is based on research showing that touch buttons are safer and faster to use while driving.

NCAP’s announcement comes at a time when some automakers are trying to outdo each other in the size and sophistication of touchscreens in their cars.

• In 2021, Mercedes introduced the “Hyper Screen” instrument panel that extends up to 56 inches.
• Tesla, in particular, has decided to remove almost all physical controls and bury the main functions, including gauges and even driving modes, in the menu on the large central touchscreen.

But some automakers are already realizing the benefits of physical controls and bringing them back into their models. For example, Porsche added buttons and dials for climate control and driving modes to its Taycan electric car after receiving feedback from customers who preferred them over a touchscreen.

Edmund King, president of the British Automobile Association, welcomed the NCAP initiative and said it would help drivers focus on the road rather than the side screen. He also praised NCAP for its role in improving crash safety and saving countless lives.

He said: “Euro NCAP has revolutionized crash safety and saved countless lives, so it is reassuring to see how the design can lead to driver distraction.”