Experts in the automotive industry have raised concerns about the rapid shift towards touch screens in modern vehicles, indicating it negatively influences the driving experience. An analysis conducted by the German Automobile Club (ADAC) revealed that some new cars received lower usability ratings compared to older models over the past seven years. The integration of numerous car functions into touchscreen menus requires drivers to spend more time tapping and searching for the desired function, such as adjusting the climate control or changing the radio station, which diverts attention from the road and makes driving less effective than using traditional buttons that can be controlled by touch without the need to look away.

The criticisms are not limited to the ADAC; they have reached Euro NCAP, the primary vehicle safety assessment body in Europe. Euro NCAP has announced imminent changes to its standards beginning in 2026, which will award higher ratings to vehicles that incorporate physical controls (such as buttons and switches) for essential functions. This shift is in response to the growing safety concerns associated with touch screens and the potential hazards they pose to drivers. The incorporation of intuitive, tactile controls is being considered crucial for enhancing driver safety and overall usability.

Given the current trends, the automotive industry's focus on technology must balance innovation with usability and safety. As vehicles become increasingly equipped with advanced technology, the challenge will be to ensure that these technologies enhance rather than hinder the driving experience. Moving forward, both manufacturers and safety organizations will need to prioritize driver-friendly designs to combat the rising trend of technology overwhelm in vehicles.