The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has updated its safety protocols for 2026 to address driver distraction caused by excessive touchscreen reliance. Under the new standards, vehicles must provide direct physical inputs for essential functions to achieve top marks in the 'Safe Driving' assessment.
Key controls that require physical buttons or switches include:
- Turn indicators
- Windscreen wipers and washers
- Hazard warning lights
- Horn
- eCall emergency button
In recent testing, the Audi Q7 and Kia EV2 performed well by retaining clear, ergonomic physical controls. The Audi Q7 achieved a 90% score for driving controls, with 100% for essential tasks. In contrast, the XPENG X9 relied heavily on its central touchscreen for these functions, resulting in a 20% score for primary driving controls.
While all three models secured a five-star overall safety rating, the assessment highlights a growing divide in cabin design. Euro NCAP officials have urged manufacturers to prioritize physical buttons to reduce the time drivers spend looking away from the road.
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