Volvo design chief Thomas Ingenlath announced a shift in the company's interior design strategy following the 2026 strategic update event. The automaker plans to reintroduce physical controls to its vehicle cabins after receiving feedback from consumers and media regarding the over-reliance on touchscreens.
Ingenlath clarified that the company will not abandon touchscreens entirely but will reserve them for functions where they are most effective. Essential features that require constant access will be moved to physical buttons to ensure better usability and safety while driving.
The new design philosophy draws inspiration from Leica cameras, focusing on the tactile quality of knobs and buttons. Volvo aims to incorporate physical controls that offer distinct textures, shapes, and feedback, enhancing the overall premium feel of the vehicle interior.
This decision aligns with a broader industry trend where manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, MINI, and Kia have also expressed intentions to retain or bring back physical controls to balance digital interfaces with functional hardware.
