FLEETDRIVE
Why physical buttons are making a comeback
In recent months, there has been a renewed interest in retaining physical buttons in vehicles. As vehicle manufacturers continue moving essential functions into touchscreen interfaces, concerns have grown around driver distraction.
Inspired by Euro NCAP’ s protocols, ANCAP now encourages manufacturers to ensure that key safety functions remain easily accessible through physical buttons instead of being buried within multiple layers of touchscreen menus.
They are also evaluating emerging design features such as electric door handles, assessing whether doors can still be opened after a crash if a vehicle ' s electrical system fails. Manual override systems are becoming an increasingly important consideration in post-collision scenarios.
Another new area of assessment involves pedal misapplication technology, which is designed to reduce incidents where drivers accidentally press the accelerator instead of the brake. While these events are relatively uncommon, they are becoming a greater consideration as populations age.
The rise of post-crash technology
Perhaps the most significant change to the 2026 protocols is the introduction of an entirely new post-crash assessment category.
This new pillar focuses on what happens after a collision and includes battery integrity, fire risk monitoring, and emergency communication systems.
As electrification accelerates, ANCAP is placing greater emphasis on how vehicles monitor battery conditions following an impact and how they communicate potential risks to occupants and emergency responders.
One technology expected to play an increasingly important role is eCall. Already mandatory in Europe, eCall systems automatically contact emergency services following a serious crash.
35