Buttons in cars: Australian crash testers are latest to require them

In an industry heavily influenced by design trends, the automotive sector is seeing a significant shift back to traditional controls. While flashy features and high-tech interfaces have dominated car interiors, the safety implications of these trends are prompting regulators to take action. Gone are the days when vehicles were adorned with glossy black trims, which, while visually appealing, often led to frustration for drivers due to their susceptibility to scratches and fingerprints. Designers, like Kia's Jochen Paesen, have acknowledged that the era of black gloss is over, recognizing the need for more practical materials. The most pressing concern, however, is the move away from physical buttons in favor of touchscreens and digital controls. The Euro New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) announced that starting in 2026, vehicles will face penalties in crash tests for lacking easily accessible, separate controls. This decision underscores a growing consensus that driver safety should not be compromised for the sake of modern aesthetics. Following suit, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has implemented similar criteria for vehicles tested in Australia and New Zealand, further emphasizing the importance of driver accessibility and safety in automotive design. As technology advances, the industry is reminded that the functionality of vehicle controls remains paramount, ensuring drivers can maintain their focus on the road ahead.