Volvo Has Planned Return of Physical Buttons
The manufacturer intends to balance digital touchscreens with tactile controls in its upcoming vehicle lineup.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Volvo has announced plans to reintegrate physical buttons into its car interiors following feedback from customers and journalists. This shift marks a strategic move to blend traditional tactile controls with touchscreen functionality.
Why it matters
The change addresses widespread criticism regarding the over-reliance on digital interfaces in modern vehicle design. By prioritizing ease of use, the manufacturer aims to improve the driving experience for owners across its future model range.
Volvo has committed to releasing 13 new vehicle models by 2030, all of which will feature the revised interior design philosophy. This plan follows the return of Thomas Ingenlath as head of design in 2026.
The players
Volvo
A Swedish automotive manufacturer recognized for its focus on safety, family-friendly design, and a transition to electric vehicle technology.
Thomas Ingenlath
The head of design at Volvo who returned to the role in 2026 to lead the brand's interior aesthetic evolution.
The details
The design shift will focus on striking a balance between physical controls and touchscreen functions. Volvo plans to designate screen interfaces strictly for tasks where digital displays offer the most utility, while returning tactile buttons to the cabin for core operations. This approach seeks to refine the interior layout to prioritize driver intuition and comfort.
Timeline
Thomas Ingenlath returned as head of design in 2026.
Volvo will reveal a concept car featuring new interior designs in early 2027.
The company aims to release 13 new vehicle models by 2030.
The Home Front
This development marks a significant departure from the industry-wide trend toward minimalist, touchscreen-only vehicle cockpits. Volvo is now pivoting to prioritize usability over the aesthetic of a button-free dashboard.
Prospective buyers should look for upcoming concept vehicle reveals in early 2027 to see how these new interior layouts perform in practice. As Volvo rolls out its 13 new models through 2030, consider test-driving the latest designs to ensure the balance of buttons and screens meets your family's needs.
The takeaway
The move signals a shift back toward intuitive, tactile design in automotive interiors that drivers can easily operate while on the road. Keep an eye on new Volvo vehicle launches through 2030 to see how these practical design updates evolve across the brand's updated model fleet.
Further reading
For more updates on automotive technology and interior innovations, see our Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CarBuzz.
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Do you prefer physical buttons over touchscreens for controlling your car's functions?
