Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius says the automaker has listened to customer feedback and concluded that its move toward replacing physical controls with digital interfaces may have gone too far. The company now plans to reintroduce what Källenius described as “the most sensible buttons” in future Mercedes vehicles.
Mercedes Acknowledges Customer Feedback
The comments come after criticism of Mercedes-Benz’s increasing reliance on touchscreen controls and digital interfaces. According to Autocar, Källenius said the company recognizes that technology should not come at the expense of customer usability.
“Sometimes you get a bit ahead of yourself and do technology for the sake of technology and maybe forget a little bit about the customer,” Källenius said. “So from now on, you will see us reintroduce the most sensible buttons.”
CEO Says the Industry Has Gone Too Far
Källenius suggested the issue extends beyond Mercedes, saying the automotive industry may have pushed digital controls beyond what customers want.
“The industry as a whole might have gone a little bit too far” with digital controls, including voice commands, he said. When asked whether the industry had reached “peak screen,” Källenius replied, “I don’t know if we’re at peak screen, but we’re at low button.”
Buttons Are Already Returning to Steering Wheels
According to Källenius, Mercedes has already begun bringing physical buttons back to its steering wheels. However, he indicated that it will take time before the updated design philosophy is reflected across the company’s broader vehicle lineup, noting that new vehicles require significant development time.
The remarks represent a public acknowledgment from the head of a manufacturer that has been among the industry’s strongest advocates for replacing traditional controls with digital interfaces.
A Shift Toward More Practical Controls
Källenius said Mercedes is responding to customer sentiment by restoring practical physical controls where they make the most sense. While the transition will not happen immediately across every model, the company has already started implementing the change.
The comments signal Mercedes’ intention to balance technology with usability by reintroducing physical buttons alongside its digital features.
