CES has more and more turn into outlined by what automakers and different mobility-focused corporations convey to Las Vegas, and CES 2024 has been no exception. Although some main CES automotive gamers from previous years like Ford, GM and Toyota didn’t have a giant presence, different corporations stuffed the gaps with EV reveals, flying autos and plenty of speak about “software-defined vehicles” and generative AI.
Because the TechCrunch staff continues to cowl CES from the present ground in Vegas, led by Transportation Editor Kirsten Korosec, you may compensate for the entire mobility information proper right here because it is available in.
Hydrogen’s making a giant comeback
Attendees journey a hydrogen gas cell practice at SK Group’s SK Wonderland sales space throughout CES 2024. Picture Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Photographs
The underlying know-how for hydrogen-powered autos has been round for some time, although it’s been eclipsed by battery-powered electrical autos. However at CES 2024, a lot of corporations from Nikola to Hyundai and Bosch had been touting its advantages. We explore why this is the year several companies are highlighting hydrogen, with an additional deep dive into Hyundai’s plans.
What are software-defined autos anyway?
Picture Credit: Lyudinka/Getty Photographs (modified by TechCrunch)
We’re glad you requested, as a result of the phrase was throughout CES 2024.
As one professional instructed TechCrunch, autos are outlined as such when their “capabilities can be upgraded over time, fundamentally by software, instead of having to change physical parts.” However that’s simply the tip of the iceberg, you can get the full rundown here.
Honda’s 0 sequence EVs, Saloon and House-Hub ideas debut
Honda unveils idea EVs and teases new 0 sequence lineup. Picture Credit: Kirsten Korosec
Should you’re bored with “thick, heavy” EVs, Honda has another imaginative and prescient for you. The carmaker showcased a extra modern design for its Saloon idea, whereas the House-Hub takes a extra family-friendly van method. Past the ideas, Honda is focusing on 2026 for a North American launch of the 0 sequence lineup. Check out our first look right here.
Polestar explains why they’re sticking with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Picture Credit: Polestar
Whereas different automakers are opting to make vehicles just like the 2024 Chevy Blazer EV incompatible with each Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Polestar is sticking with permitting drivers extra flexibility with the extra providers they use of their automotive. The company’s CEO Thomas Ingenlath broke down why in an exclusive interview with TechCrunch.
Pivotal begins promoting its electrical private plane
From storage to flight in half-hour. A 16′ street trailer can maintain all the pieces wanted to take the Helix to uncongested, Class G airspace areas. Picture Credit: Pivotal
Backed by Google co-founder Larry Web page, Pivotal will start transport its $190,000 Helix autos in June, with the corporate telling TechCrunch that they’ve already been gathering preorders throughout CES. Read the full rundown on the Helix here, together with why it doesn’t require a Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification.
Hyundai’s eVTOL plane units sights on a 2028 launch
Picture Credit: Kirsten Korosec
Supernal, a Hyundai subsidiary, confirmed off its new S-A2 electrical vertical takeoff and touchdown plane on the present ground. The craft is ultimately meant to gas a community of arial taxis by way of a partnership with Uber Elevate, although a rollout stays years away. The corporate intends to submit its proposal for FAA approval in 2025 with a launch focused in 2028. Check out our interview with the Supernal team here.
Plus you may try a extra hands-on walkthrough of the plane beneath.
Volkswagen brings ChatGPT into its vehicles and SUVs
Picture Credit: Volkswagen
Simply while you thought you would keep away from a ChatGPT point out on this rundown, right here it’s: Volkswagen kicked off CES by asserting the AI chat bot could be added to its IDA voice assistant. Although like its commonplace type issue, the voice-powered ChatGPT might nonetheless be tricked, as we learned in a hands-on demo.
Kia’s modular EV lineup is revealed
Picture credit: Kirsten Korosec
Modular phones may have come and gone, however Kia hopes modular autos could have a bit extra success. Each the electrical powertrain and the autos’ tops are modular and related by way of electromagnets. A 3-row van, the Kia PV5, is focusing on an approximate $35,000 price ticket and a 2025 launch. Read our first impressions here.
Google Maps provides real-time battery data for EV homeowners
Picture Credit: Google
Android Auto will now present a transparent indication of your automotive’s cost state, together with instructed charging stops and an estimation of how a lot cost will stay when you attain your vacation spot. Check out all the details, plus some additional trip planning updates, here.
