Volkswagen Might Reintroduce Physical Buttons In Its Future Models

• Shifts from touchscreens to balanced controls based on feedback.
• Sets a tactile standard with physical buttons, guiding redesign.
• Adopts eco-friendly materials for a greener design.
• Aims for ID 2all features by 2025, adapting to preferences.
• Introduces smart storage, enhancing utility in redesign.

Volkswagen responds to customer feedback, shifts away from touchscreen-heavy design

In a surprising shift, Volkswagen is set to reintroduce the physical buttons in its upcoming car models, marking a departure from its recent emphasis on the touchscreen controls. The move is a direct response to the customers criticism, signaling a reconsideration of the brand's interior design strategy.

Showcasing a new approach that’s inspired by the customers input

The recently unveiled ID 2all concept SUV serves as a blueprint for Volkswagen's revised interior design philosophy. Darius Watola, the company's interior designer, expressed that the concept signifies a "new approach for all models" and is a direct response to the feedback received from the customers that are dissatisfied with the touchscreen-heavy approach.

CEO Acknowledges Damage Done

Thomas Schafer admits drawbacks of touchscreen-centric design

Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schafer openly acknowledged the negative impact of the touchscreen approach, stating that it "did a lot of damage" to the brand. This admission underscores the importance of addressing the concerns of the customer and signals a commitment to a more user-friendly and well-received interior design.

Physical Buttons and Touchscreen Integration

The new interior design features a row of backlit physical buttons for climate controls, providing a tactile and intuitive alternative to the touchscreen interactions. Additionally, a rotary controller on the central tunnel, reminiscent of BMW's iDrive, has also been introduced for managing the touchscreen functions. This integration aims to offer the users a seamless and versatile control experience.

Rethinking The Materials

Volkswagen is not only reevaluating its control interfaces but also rethinking the materials that are used in its interiors. The ID 2all concept also introduces a shift towards sustainability, with a goal to eliminate the hard plastics, glue, leather, and chrome. Soft-touch surfaces, incorporating fabrics and Alcantara, take center stage, aligning with the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.

2025 Vision: From Concept to Production

Darius Watola expressed a desire to see as many features and materials from the ID 2all concept in production cars by 2025. The concept's customizable screens, including themes like retro graphics from the original Golf, are expected to make it to production, showcasing Volkswagen's dedication to incorporating the customer-centric design elements.

Practical Innovations

ID 2all introduces clever storage solutions and practical features

In addition to the shift in controls and materials, the ID 2all concept also introduces the practical innovations. The foldable bottom half of the rear bench allows for the transportation of a bike in the rear passenger footwell. Furthermore, a storage space beneath the floor of the 490-liter boot is designed to accommodate three large drinks crates, showcasing Volkswagen's commitment to enhancing the utility and convenience of its future vehicles.

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Verdict: Volkswagen takes a note of the customer’s feedback by reintroducing the physical buttons in response to the criticism on the touchscreens. The ID 2all concept showcases this tactile shift, emphasizing sustainability. With a 2025 goal for production, VW aims for a customer-centric and eco-friendly evolution in design.