Key element for a motor vehicle

The key element (1) is associated with a holder (2) and the holder is arranged on a selection or shift lever (3) or in the instrument panel or console region. The key element has at least one operating element in the form of a starting button (4) for a drive unit of the motor vehicle. It has at least one electrical contact and/or at least one electromagnetic and/or contactless interface and is connected to at least one corresponding contact or interface in the holder.