Automotive industry cockpit interface evolution

The automotive industry is experiencing a complex evolution in cockpit design and user interfaces. Initially, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) led to a trend of removing traditional physical Start/Stop buttons, as EVs often activate automatically via digital keys or smartphones. While some brands like NIO and Lotus have moved toward complete automatic activation, others like Nissan and Mazda have maintained physical buttons to preserve driver familiarity.

More recently, a strategic pivot has emerged regarding digital versus tactile controls. Major manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Ferrari, are moving away from purely touchscreen-based interfaces due to driver frustration with complex digital menus. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius noted that the industry “overshot its digitalization goals,” impacting driving safety.

This shift is further reinforced by upcoming safety regulations. Starting in 2026, Euro NCAP will require essential functions—such as turn signals, hazard lights, and windshield wipers—to be operated via physical controls for a vehicle to achieve a maximum five-star safety rating. Consequently, while large digital displays remain for multimedia, manufacturers are reintroducing haptic and tactile hardware for critical primary functions to prioritize ergonomics and safety.