In the USA there are two types of electric range like this: standalone and slide-in. This is a standalone. A standalone has finish metal panels on the sides so it can be located in the open. AFIK standalones always have the controls on the top back and slide-ins have the controls on the front.
The slide in is generally more expensive and is used in higher end kitchens. The lack of a high control panel in the back allows more space for installation of a fancy back-splash behind the range. Also having the controls on the front is reminiscent of the appearance of a traditional high end gas range
We have a slide-in of this type and I find I have to step back and bend my neck to read the writing on the controls to make sure I am operating the burner I wish to. However with a standalone in the event of spattering hot grease (or worse) it does appear that it would be dangerous to reach for the temperature control.