With the evolution of car interiors moving towards touchscreens and digital interfaces, Volkswagen has decided to make a significant shift by reintroducing physical buttons in their next generation of electric vehicles. Andreas Mindt, the company’s design chief, emphasized the importance of tactile controls, affirming that “It’s not a phone: it’s a car.”
### The Return of Buttons
Volkswagen’s acknowledgment of the challenges posed by touch-heavy controls comes as a welcome change for driving enthusiasts who have expressed frustration with the trend. While touchscreens offer versatility and aesthetics, many drivers have found them difficult to navigate, especially for essential functions like climate control and volume adjustment.
### A Commitment to Ease of Use
Volkswagen’s commitment to ensuring intuitive and easy-to-use controls is reflected in their decision to include physical buttons for vital functions in all future models. CEO Thomas Schäfer previously admitted the difficulties with the touchscreen approach and pledged to rectify the issue.
### The Impact on Future Models
The transition back to physical buttons will begin with the launch of the ID.2all, Volkswagen’s compact electric vehicle set to enter production later this year. While touchscreens will remain essential for functions like navigation and infotainment, critical controls like volume adjustment and temperature settings will feature dedicated physical buttons.
### Regulations and Safety
Volkswagen’s decision aligns with a broader safety movement pushing for physical controls in vehicles. The European New Car Assessment Program’s upcoming requirements for critical functions to have physical buttons reflect the growing concern over driver distraction caused by touchscreens.
### Conclusion
Volkswagen’s move to bring back physical buttons marks a significant shift in car design philosophy. By prioritizing ease of use and driver-friendly interfaces, the company is poised to set a new standard in the industry. As the automotive landscape evolves, the return of buttons in Volkswagen’s cars signals a return to simplicity and functionality for drivers.
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