The European Safety Agency has issued a warning regarding the potential 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. 

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Raising Concerns Over Touchscreen Use in Cars

As automobiles have 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.

Interesting Engineering reported that this announcement follows the growing trend of large touchscreen displays in modern vehicles. For instance, models like the Volvo EX30 boast minimal physical buttons, relying heavily on touchscreen interfaces. 

Europe's authority on conducting crash and safety evaluations for new vehicles Euro NCAP views this trend as a potential source of distraction, highlighting the importance of prioritizing safety over technological advancements in automotive design.

As reported by KTLA, Euro NCAP is adamant that specific features such as turn signals, hazard lights, and other essential controls must be operated through physical buttons rather than touchscreen interfaces for a vehicle to attain a coveted 5-star crash rating.

This directive stems from concerns over potential distractions and safety risks associated with touchscreen controls, particularly in critical situations requiring swift responses. 

Notably, companies like Tesla have been pioneers in replacing traditional physical controls with touchscreen interfaces, prompting discussions about the impact on driver safety.

Highlighting Industry-Wide Concern

Euro NCAP's director of strategic development, Matthew Avery, 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.

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.

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In contrast, in the United States, distracted driving campaigns typically target cellphone usage. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have not proposed a similar requirement. 

Nevertheless, states like Michigan have enforced bans on handheld phone use while driving. The IIHS has also suggested the use of roadside cameras and telematics as tools to penalize distracted drivers.

However, there is growing concern over pedestrian safety and the rise in incidents of distracted driving. It is foreseeable that scrutiny over touchscreen usage in vehicles will intensify, likely sparking discussions in the near future.

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