According to CarScoops, this decision was made after Hyundai realized that American consumers were not satisfied with integrated touchscreen technology. This shows a change in the Korean automaker's perspective, when they admitted that touchscreen technology is not the optimal choice for all customers.
Hyundai experimented with virtual touchscreen controls, replacing traditional physical buttons, to create a clean, modern interior. However, the company quickly realized that this change was not well received by consumers.
“When we added integrated displays to the car, we also tried using touch screen controls, but people didn’t like it,” said Ha Hak-soo, vice president of Hyundai Design North America (HDNA).
When we tested it with our research subjects, we found that people get stressed, frustrated, and angry when they want to control something in an urgent situation but can't."
Despite the advantages of creating a clean, tidy cabin space and more flexibility for vehicle functions, touchscreen technology also shows its limitations when the driver has to search for digital switches while moving, especially when driving over rough roads. Even changing a simple feature becomes more complicated than using traditional knobs or buttons.
Hyundai is committed to keeping physical controls on its vehicles, especially on the recently upgraded Ioniq 5. These models will no longer rely entirely on touchscreens, making it easier for drivers to operate in all situations.
However, Hyundai's North American design team also believes that in the future, consumers may gradually accept touch screen technology more when cars are equipped with advanced driving assistance technologies, helping drivers relax and reduce stress when using the car.
These changes are an important step in meeting the real needs of customers, showing Hyundai's listening and quick adaptation to the US market.
