According to the expert, transferring control of basic and additional functions to touch screens increases the risk of an accident. The driver has to take his eyes off the road to find the right button in the complex submenus of the on-board media system. Accordingly, he may miss the moment that requires active action in order to avoid an accident.
Matthew Avery promised that in 2026 EuroNCAP will introduce new testing regulations that will take this aspect into account. The association plans to require manufacturers to maintain at least a minimum set of physical regulators in car interiors. They, according to experts, provide intuitive access to functions and allow the driver to remain focused on control.
Among the functions that, as EuroNCAP considered, cannot be transferred to touch screens are the inclusion of turn signals, windshield wipers and emergency lights, a horn and calling emergency services via the eCall system. They will not be required to have physical buttons, but the association will deduct points from tests for missing keys. Accordingly, cars without such buttons will not be able to receive the highest safety rating, which, according to EuroNCAP, will negatively affect their image in the eyes of buyers.