Automakers and even former Apple design chief Jony Ive are acknowledging that giant touchscreens in cars have gone too far. Drivers are increasingly frustrated, and safety concerns are mounting, leading to a return of physical controls. The trend suggests a critical re-evaluation of in-car technology—one that prioritizes driver focus over digital excess.
The Problem with Digital Overload
For years, car manufacturers chased the sleek aesthetic of minimal dashboards dominated by large central touchscreens. This meant consolidating climate controls, entertainment, and even essential vehicle functions into menus accessed via the screen. The result? Drivers spend an average of 40 seconds interacting with these screens at just 25 mph. According to a 2017 AAA study, that’s enough time to travel the length of five football fields with your eyes off the road—a clear safety hazard.
Jony Ive, who shaped the original iPhone and later contributed to Ferrari’s EV interior design, agrees. He stated bluntly that touchscreens are “just the wrong technology” for core in-car controls. He never would have integrated them for primary functions, emphasizing that looking away from the road to operate a screen is inherently dangerous.
Ferrari’s Hybrid Approach
The upcoming Ferrari Luce is a case study in this shift. While it retains a sizable touchscreen and digital cluster, the cabin also features tactile knobs, switches, and physical toggles for climate, heated seats, and other frequently used settings. The design philosophy centers on intuitive use and safety, balancing digital aesthetics with driver-focused ergonomics.
Ive’s design goal for the Ferrari touchscreen was to make it “something you could use intuitively, enjoy, and use safely.”
Why This Matters
The move away from touchscreen dominance isn’t just about aesthetics or convenience. It reflects a growing awareness of cognitive load and driver distraction. Automakers are facing customer frustration and potential liability concerns. Overreliance on digital interfaces degrades the driving experience and introduces unnecessary risk.
The resurgence of physical controls signals a return to prioritizing functionality and safety. This trend isn’t just a design choice; it’s a pragmatic response to real-world consequences. The industry is learning that less is sometimes more—especially when lives are at stake.
