Volvo to reintroduce physical buttons in response to safety standards

Volvo Cars has announced a shift in its design language, moving away from an overreliance on touchscreens to reintroduce physical buttons for essential functions. This decision follows significant criticism from customers and journalists regarding screen-heavy interfaces. Volvo's new design chief, Thomas Ingenlath, indicated that future models will prioritize physical controls for features where safety and comfort are paramount.

This industry shift is also being driven by Euro NCAP. Starting in January 2026, the safety organization will implement new requirements for achieving a five-star crash test rating. To secure this rating, five central functions—turn signals, hazard lights, the horn, windshield wipers, and the automatic emergency call (eCall)—must be operable via physical buttons or switches.

Other major manufacturers are already moving in a similar direction. Volkswagen's design chief, Andreas Mindt, previously stated that the company would not repeat the ‘screen experiment,’ and Mercedes-Benz has also begun shifting its approach toward more intuitive physical controls.