JD Power’s Findings on Passenger Screen Usage and Infotainment Systems
JD Power states that 35% of passenger screen owners have never used them, as revealed in their 2026 Tech Experience Index. This index highlights that infotainment systems with passenger screens generate the highest number of complaints among various categories.
Euro NCAP’s New Protocols and Regulations
Euro NCAP has implemented a protocol effective since January, awarding points for physical controls on nine functions. Additionally, driver distraction warning systems became mandatory in the EU in July.
Only 6% of car buyers use their passenger screens every time they drive.
Key Takeaways from the Study
- Complaints and Performance: Infotainment systems with passenger screens experienced 21.3 problems per 100 vehicles, making them the most problematic area.
- Preferred Features: Simple features like smart ignition, climate control, and driver preferences received high satisfaction ratings and fewer issues.
- Complexity and Driver Assistance: Hands-free Level 2+ systems performed lower than hands-on Level 2 due to complexity, where the driver maintains responsibility in both cases.
- European Regulation: Euro NCAP’s protocol awards points for physical controls on nine functions, including turn signals, hazard lights, horn, wipers, and eCall buttons. Chinese regulators have also emphasized fixing quality over adding features.
- Industry Concessions: Manufacturers are starting to acknowledge the issue, with Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius suggesting the industry might have gone too far with screen integration.
- EU Regulation: Since July 7, every new car registered in the EU must have a driver distraction monitoring system, along with emergency braking for pedestrians and cyclists.
A Broader Trend in Automotive Technology
The focus on reducing driver distraction and improving safety extends beyond screens, as demonstrated by China’s recall of millions of EVs due to issues with emergency door release controls seamlessly integrated into the trim.