Transition from Physical Buttons to Touchscreens in Cars
BMW and other car manufacturers are moving towards touchscreens in cars, replacing physical buttons and knobs. This shift is driven by cost savings, design benefits, and customer preference for mobile phone-like interfaces. However, research shows that using touchscreens while driving can significantly impair reaction times and safety.
Key Points
- Car manufacturers are increasingly replacing physical buttons with touchscreens in cars
- Research shows using touchscreens while driving can impair reaction times
- Euro Ncap requires easy-to-use tactile controls for safety ratings
Pros
- Cost savings for car manufacturers
- Design benefits such as sleek and clutter-free dashboards
- Alignment with customer preference for mobile phone-like interfaces
Cons
- Impaired reaction times and safety when using touchscreens while driving
- Negative impact on driver's ability to control the vehicle
- User dissatisfaction with touchscreens in cars