Mercedes Chief Acknowledges “Buttons Are Superior,” and Plans to Reintroduce Them: TDS

Mercedes Chief Acknowledges “Buttons Are Superior,” and Plans to Reintroduce Them: TDS

      Mercedes-Benz AG

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      Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

      TDS is concise, engaging, and straightforward. It captures the latest automotive news from around the world and condenses each story into a single sentence, providing links for those interested in further details.

      Now that the first cup of coffee is gone, let’s dive in.

      🚘 What I’m driving: The 2025 Ford Expedition Platinum is parked in my garage, and the three standout features are the new split tailgate design, the updated dashboard and steering wheel, and the fact that each of these items sports a black tailgate.

      ⌨️ Mercedes-Benz’s software chief Magnus Östberg acknowledged that "the data indicates that physical buttons are superior," mentioning that the company will reintroduce buttons, roller knobs, and toggles, starting with a new steering wheel design showcased on the GLC EV, as it is the fastest way to reintegrate physical controls into the luxury brand’s vehicles.

      🏎️ Mercedes-Benz AMG is evaluating the feasibility of creating an electric version of its forthcoming competitor to the Porsche 911.

      ‼️ Stellantis has recalled nearly 165,000 Jeep Wagoneers and Grand Wagoneers due to concerns over the potential detachment of trim pieces on both the driver and passenger doors.

      ✨ Rolls-Royce has introduced a unique Cullinan named the Cosmos, inspired by the allure of space, featuring a hand-painted Starlight Headliner that took over 160 hours to complete.

      🇦🇪 Tesla has commenced sales of the Cybertruck in the UAE as the seemingly childlike electric truck continues to struggle in the U.S. market.

      🪏 Rivian has officially begun construction on its new electric vehicle factory in Georgia.

      🕵️‍♀️ The U.S. federal government is investigating whether approximately 174,000 Tesla Model Y EVs may have malfunctioning door handles that could trap children inside the vehicle.

      💄 Lexus has revealed a unique LX SUV called the Glam LX, designed with beauty and fashion essentials, transforming the vehicle into a comprehensive glam studio.

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Mercedes Chief Acknowledges “Buttons Are Superior,” and Plans to Reintroduce Them: TDS

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"Provided the state does not contribute..." 17 September 2025 - 13:33 Despite discussions about Germany making a return to the Formula 1 calendar, Ralf Schumacher believes the country faces too many challenges to reinstate its presence soon. F1 has already announced the 2026 schedule, featuring 24 races and six newly confirmed sprint events, including new hosts Canada, Zandvoort, and Singapore. Germany is not included in this lineup, although the F1 CEO has recently suggested a possible return to Hockenheim or the Nurburgring, particularly with Audi entering the sport and Mercedes already involved. However, Schumacher mentioned to T-Online that German motorsport is declining. "In Germany, we currently have approximately 700 karting racing licenses, and that number is decreasing," he noted. "In England, for instance, there are around 4000. Karting is thriving there and in Italy, but here in Germany, it is gradually being phased out. There are hardly any proper kart tracks left, and the number of racing series is dwindling. "It’s quite straightforward – if I remove football fields, there will be fewer football players, and that’s exactly the situation we’re facing in racing." To address this, Mercedes and ADAC have launched a partnership to support a German driver on the path to F1. Nonetheless, Schumacher believes manufacturers must also work together to restore Germany’s position on the calendar. "Collaborations are crucial," the former F1 driver stated. "If Mercedes and Audi ever decide to unite in this effort, progress could be made. I would love to see that happen." However, Schumacher remains doubtful about a return without government support. "As long as the state does not invest financial resources—resources it would regain through the tourism generated by the race—it won't succeed," he argued. "Entry fees have become so high that the organizer must provide a comprehensive security package involving police and fire departments – Hockenheim won’t be able to generate sufficient revenue. You don’t need a math degree to understand that it won’t work. "But I still hold onto hope." "Provided the state does not contribute..." 17 September 2025 - 13:33 Despite discussions about Germany making a return to the Formula 1 calendar, Ralf Schumacher believes the country faces too many challenges to reinstate its presence soon. F1 has already announced the 2026 schedule, featuring 24 races and six newly confirmed sprint events, including new hosts Canada, Zandvoort, and Singapore. Germany is not included in this lineup, although the F1 CEO has recently suggested a possible return to Hockenheim or the Nurburgring, particularly with Audi entering the sport and Mercedes already involved. However, Schumacher mentioned to T-Online that German motorsport is declining. "In Germany, we currently have approximately 700 karting racing licenses, and that number is decreasing," he noted. "In England, for instance, there are around 4000. Karting is thriving there and in Italy, but here in Germany, it is gradually being phased out. There are hardly any proper kart tracks left, and the number of racing series is dwindling. "It’s quite straightforward – if I remove football fields, there will be fewer football players, and that’s exactly the situation we’re facing in racing." To address this, Mercedes and ADAC have launched a partnership to support a German driver on the path to F1. Nonetheless, Schumacher believes manufacturers must also work together to restore Germany’s position on the calendar. "Collaborations are crucial," the former F1 driver stated. "If Mercedes and Audi ever decide to unite in this effort, progress could be made. I would love to see that happen." However, Schumacher remains doubtful about a return without government support. 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Mercedes Chief Acknowledges “Buttons Are Superior,” and Plans to Reintroduce Them: TDS

Mercedes remains dedicated to its digital-first interiors; however, the data indicates that people favor buttons.