In a world where technology is evolving faster than Houston’s freeway traffic, haptic feedback is steadily making its mark in the automotive sector, and it’s poised to become a serious game-changer by 2035. If the idea of your car giving you a “tap on the shoulder” to keep you in line sounds futuristic, buckle up—because the future is arriving faster than we think. By 2035, experts predict that the automotive haptics market will grow into a jaw-dropping $2.5 billion industry, according to research from IDTechEx. That’s a major leap from the relatively humble $300 million forecasted for 2024.

What Exactly is Automotive Haptics?

Haptics technology refers to the use of touch-based feedback to interact with a device or system. While haptics may be most commonly associated with smartphones (think of the little buzz you feel when tapping a button), the car industry has now grabbed the wheel and is steering this tech into a whole new lane.

Haptics isn’t exactly new to vehicles—Mercedes, for example, was one of the pioneers, incorporating vibration alerts for lane-keeping assistance back in 2009. However, the latest innovations in solid-state buttons are where things get interesting. These buttons, found in modern car cockpits, offer a cleaner design by reducing mechanical parts, lowering production costs, and keeping dust and dirt from sneaking into switches. But since solid-state buttons don’t give you that satisfying click, the addition of haptic feedback lets you know you’ve pushed the button—without needing to rely on sound or visuals.

The Tesla Effect: Leading the Charge

Tesla is no stranger to breaking the mold, and in late 2023, the Model 3’s “Highland” refresh introduced haptic buttons on the steering wheel, replacing traditional physical buttons for key functions like turn signals and cruise control. Gone are the clunky stalks and knobs; instead, you get sleek, minimalist haptic buttons. And while some folks may miss the old-school feel of a physical click, this is likely just the beginning of a trend. Other major car brands are expected to follow suit, as the industry leans towards designs that are both more efficient and, let’s be honest, much cooler.

But it’s not just about looks—these haptic buttons are practical, too. Using haptics for core driving functions could potentially increase safety by offering tactile confirmation that your input was received, making it easier to keep your eyes on the road. With advanced piezoelectric actuators, which provide a “crisper” touch response, automakers can make each interaction with your car feel as sharp as the Houston skyline at sunset.

Buttons, Displays, and Beyond

Solid-state buttons aren’t the only place where haptics is leaving its imprint. Remember those touchscreens that are now running everything from your AC to your music? While they’re convenient, critics have long complained that the lack of physical buttons makes it easy to accidentally hit the wrong option. Enter haptics: adding tactile feedback to the center console display helps reduce the chances of a misclick, ensuring you stay focused on the road.

Leading carmakers like Nissan and Audi have already integrated this technology to improve the driving experience, and more advanced actuators, such as voice coil motors (VCMs), are set to take it to the next level. These newer haptics can cover larger surfaces, like displays, and convey a wider range of sensations, making the experience more immersive and intuitive.

The Roadblocks: Consumer Preference and Safety Regulations

As with any innovation, there are a few bumps in the road. Some automakers, such as Volkswagen, have already pulled back on haptic buttons due to negative consumer feedback. Drivers weren’t too thrilled with the lack of defined edges and the tactile feel of the haptic systems, which led to confusion and frustration. Clearly, there's room for improvement, but manufacturers are working on refining the tech to better meet customer expectations.

Additionally, safety is a major consideration. Euro NCAP, a European car safety body, has announced that starting in 2026, it will lower the safety ratings of vehicles that don’t use physical buttons for basic functions like hazard lights. This could slow down the adoption of touchscreens and haptics in favor of good ol’ physical switches—although let’s be honest, many automakers might just take the hit and stick with haptics for the long haul.

The Bottom Line: Haptics are Here to Stay

Despite a few detours, the automotive haptics market is undeniably shifting into high gear. As more carmakers adopt this technology for both core and non-core driving functions, we’ll see an increase in the number of haptic actuators being used in each vehicle. From steering wheels to center consoles, this touch-based tech is set to transform the way we interact with our cars. And for Houston drivers, that could mean fewer distractions and a more responsive, intuitive driving experience—whether you’re commuting downtown or cruising through the Third Ward.

If the past decade was all about integrating touchscreens, the next one will see the rise of haptics making our in-car interactions smoother and smarter. Get ready, Houston: your car may just start talking to you—not with words, but with touch.

For more in-depth analysis on the future of haptics, IDTechEx’s report, Haptics 2025-2035: Technologies, Markets, Players, provides valuable insights and market forecasts. Visit IDTechEx.com for more details.

Author Bio: Sam Dale, Senior Technology Analyst at IDTechEx, has been following the haptics market since 2015. His deep knowledge of emerging technologies gives him a front-row seat to the innovations shaping our future.

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