CES has more and more change into outlined by what automakers and different mobility-focused corporations deliver 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 automobiles and lots of speak about “software-defined automobiles” and generative AI.
Because the TechCrunch workforce continues to cowl CES from the present flooring 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 experience a hydrogen gasoline cell practice at SK Group’s SK Wonderland sales space throughout CES 2024. Picture Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Pictures
The underlying know-how for hydrogen-powered automobiles has been round for some time, although it’s been eclipsed by battery-powered electrical automobiles. However at CES 2024, a variety of corporations from Nikola to Hyundai and Bosch had been touting its advantages. We discover why that is the yr a number of corporations are highlighting hydrogen, with an extra deep dive into Hyundai’s plans.
What are software-defined automobiles anyway?
Picture Credit: Lyudinka/Getty Pictures (modified by TechCrunch)
We’re glad you requested, as a result of the phrase was throughout CES 2024.
As one knowledgeable instructed TechCrunch, automobiles are outlined as such when their “capabilities may be upgraded over time, basically by software program, as an alternative of getting to alter bodily components.” However that’s simply the tip of the iceberg, you may get the total rundown right here.
Honda’s 0 collection EVs, Saloon and House-Hub ideas debut
Honda unveils idea EVs and teases new 0 collection lineup. Picture Credit: Kirsten Korosec
If you happen to’re uninterested in “thick, heavy” EVs, Honda has an alternate 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 strategy. Past the ideas, Honda is focusing on 2026 for a North American launch of the 0 collection lineup. Try our first look proper 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 companies they use of their automotive. The corporate’s CEO Thomas Ingenlath broke down why in an unique interview with TechCrunch.
Pivotal begins promoting its electrical private plane
From storage to flight in half-hour. A 16′ highway trailer can maintain every little thing 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 delivery its $190,000 Helix automobiles in June, with the corporate telling TechCrunch that they’ve already been gathering preorders throughout CES. Learn the total rundown on the Helix right 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 flooring. The craft is finally supposed to gasoline a community of arial taxis via 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. Try our interview with the Supernal workforce right 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 once you thought you may keep away from a ChatGPT point out on this rundown, right here it’s: Volkswagen kicked off CES by saying the AI chat bot can be added to its IDA voice assistant. Although like its commonplace type issue, the voice-powered ChatGPT may nonetheless be tricked, as we realized in a hands-on demo.
Kia’s modular EV lineup is revealed
Picture credit: Kirsten Korosec
Modular telephones might have come and gone, however Kia hopes modular automobiles may have a bit extra success. Each the electrical powertrain and the automobiles’ tops are modular and linked via electromagnets. A 3-row van, the Kia PV5, is focusing on an approximate $35,000 price ticket and a 2025 launch. Learn our first impressions right 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 urged charging stops and an estimation of how a lot cost will stay when you attain your vacation spot. Try all the main points, plus some extra journey planning updates, right here.
