Car Tech is Reverting to Buttons

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Volkswagen is bringing back physical buttons to all its vehicles, calling its pivot to touch screens in recent years a mistake. The change will apply to key functions: volume control, individual heating for each side of the car, the fans, and hazard lights.

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The decision is logical from both a performance and cost standpoint.

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A 2022 study found that traditional buttons were more efficient for drivers to complete simple tasks—such as tuning the radio or adjusting the temperature.

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Meanwhile, technology’s rapid integration into modern vehicles significantly increases research and development expenses for automakers. Between 2015 and 2023, R&D costs and capital spending for the top 25 automotive companies rose by 33%, climbing from approximately $200 billion to $266 billion.

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Tesla is also reintroducing physical controls, including a column-mounted stalk for turn signals in the recently refreshed Model Y.

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Automakers are pressing rewind to save money and keep things practical—bringing back physical buttons might be the right switch.