Mercedes-Benz is changing its approach to vehicle interiors after years of prioritizing large digital displays over traditional controls. CEO Ola Källenius said the company plans to bring back key physical buttons while continuing to use large touchscreen technology, acknowledging that customer experience must remain a priority.
Mercedes-Benz Reassesses Its Digital Dashboard Strategy
Luxury automakers have spent years expanding touchscreen displays while reducing the number of physical controls inside their vehicles. Mercedes-Benz became one of the leading companies in that shift with its MBUX Hyperscreen.
The automaker’s largest Hyperscreen configuration stretches 56 inches across the dashboard. While the display delivers a futuristic appearance, it also requires drivers to navigate digital menus for routine functions.
Källenius acknowledged that the company focused heavily on advanced technology and aesthetics, sometimes at the expense of 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,” he said.
Customer Feedback Drives a New Direction
According to Källenius, Mercedes-Benz continues to invest significantly in user interface development. In an interview with Autocar, he joked that the infotainment system should be intuitive enough for either a five-year-old child or a Mercedes board member to use.
Although the company continues to improve its voice control technology, customer feedback has prompted Mercedes-Benz to adjust its interior design strategy.
Going forward, the automaker plans to restore selected tactile controls while maintaining its digital displays.
Physical Buttons Are Already Returning
Mercedes-Benz has already begun implementing the change by bringing physical buttons back to its steering wheels, replacing the haptic touch controls that had drawn criticism.
“From now on, you will see us reintroduce the most sensible buttons,” Källenius said.
Large Screens Will Remain Part of Mercedes Vehicles
When asked whether the automotive industry had reached “peak screen,” Källenius said he was not certain but added, “we’re at low button.”
His comments indicate that Mercedes-Benz does not intend to abandon large digital displays. Instead, the company plans to combine them with practical physical controls to improve everyday usability for drivers.
The updated strategy reflects Mercedes-Benz’s effort to balance advanced in-car technology with intuitive controls, while responding to customer feedback on the usability of its vehicle interiors.
