It's fair to say that electric innovator, Elon Musk, reignited our need for button-less controls in modern vehicles. Though touch screens have been in existence since the late 1980's, it wasn't until the 21st hit that the concept really made sense for the day-to-day driver. Brands like BMW gave drivers a glimpse into this interactive design feature with iDrive, and since then, it's been decades in the making to get where we are now. A market filled with touch infotainment displays, guiding drivers to temperature controls, bluetooth features, and in-cabin settings. Before the Model S debuted in 2012, drivers had never really seen a cabin space completely controlled by taps on a screen. Of course, for years we've tried to envision what the future of driving would be (cue flying cars and automated driving) but the groundbreaking 17 inch display definitely brought new talk to the table. The innovative design paired well with the way of the future: electric and computer-like. A major part of that now including large, almost too large, display screens in models of similar make and style. We're seeing this trend in a handful of other EV startups, such as Rivian and Lucid. For example, Rivian's latest pickup, R1T, features a 15.3 inch touch screen found at the center of the dashboard. And let's not forget to mention the Lucid Air's 34 inch curved display, which retracts into three accessible sections.

Are touch screens safe enough?

Admittedly, there's a lot to be impressed by here. These displays are undeniably cool and can enhance the user experience when used correctly, that we can see. But is the size getting out of hand? You could probably make a case for both sides. Even though the giant dashboard provides a readable, capable and easily tangible experience for the driver, it's also become a question of safety. Is focusing your attention on a digital infotainment screen any better than using your smartphone? Some safety experts acknowledge that these touch screens may not be all they are cracked up to be. In terms of safety, there are shortcomings that can't be overlooked. Even just two seconds with your eyes off the road can put you in a compromising position. Because touch interfaces require the use of your eyes to position your finger in the right place to enable a function, it poses the risk for distraction. Today, distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents in the world. And because touch screens have become an increasingly popular design function and choice, beyond their utility, it's hard to say we will ever see a new car produced without button-less capabilities. Ultimately, the use of touch screens do serve plenty of benefits for daily use. However, the concern for safety leaves the future of touch panels in a contentious situation. What do you think about vehicles with touch screens? Is it safe? Tell us your opinion about this common car tech feature below.