CES is increasingly defined by what automakers and other mobility-focused companies bring to Las Vegas and CES 2024 was no exception. While some major CES auto players from past years like Ford, GM and Toyota didn’t have much of a presence, other companies were filling in the gaps with EV unveilings, flying vehicles and plenty of talk about “software-defined vehicles” and genetics Artificial Intelligence.
As the TechCrunch team continues to cover CES from the show in Vegas, led by Transportation Editor Kirsten Korosec, you can catch up on all the mobility news right here as it comes.
Hydrogen is making a big comeback
Attendees drive a hydrogen fuel cell train at SK Group’s SK Wonderland booth during CES 2024. Image Credits: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
The underlying technology for hydrogen-powered vehicles has been around for a while, though it has been overshadowed by battery-powered electric vehicles. But at CES 2024, several companies from Nikola to Hyundai to Bosch were touting its benefits. We explore why this is the year many companies are emphasizing hydrogen, with an extra deep dive into Hyundai’s plans.
What are software defined vehicles anyway?
Image Credits: Lyudinka/Getty Images (modified by TechCrunch)
We’re glad you asked, because the phrase was all over CES 2024.
As one expert told TechCrunch, vehicles are defined as such when “their capabilities can be upgraded over time, basically through software, rather than having to change physical parts.” But this is only the tip of the iceberg, you can see the full analysis here.
Honda debuts the 0 Series EV, Saloon and Space-Hub concepts
Honda unveils EV prototypes and teases the new 0 Series lineup. Image Credits: Kirsten Korosech
If you’re tired of “fat, heavy” EVs, Honda has an alternative vision for you. The automaker introduced a sleeker design for the Saloon concept, while the Space-Hub takes a more family-friendly van approach. Concepts aside, Honda is targeting 2026 for a North American launch of the 0 Series. Check out our first look here.
Polestar explains why they stick with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Image Credits: Northern Star
While other automakers choose to make cars like the 2024 Chevy Blazer EV incompatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Polestar sticks to allowing drivers more flexibility with the additional services they use in their car. The company’s CEO Thomas Ingenlath mentioned why in an exclusive interview with TechCrunch.
Pivotal starts selling its electric private jets
From storage to flight in 30 minutes. A 16′ road trailer can hold everything needed to transport the Helix in areas of uncongested, Class G airspace. Image Credits: Central
Backed by Google co-founder Larry Page, Pivotal will begin shipping the $190,000 Helix vehicles in June, with the company telling TechCrunch they’ve already racked up pre-orders during CES. Read the full Helix summary here, including why it doesn’t require an FAA pilot certification.
Hyundai’s eVTOL aircraft is aiming for a 2028 launch
Image Credits: Kirsten Korosech
Supernal, a subsidiary of Hyundai, unveiled its new S-A2 vertical takeoff and landing electric aircraft on the show floor. The craft is ultimately intended to power a network of aerial taxis through a partnership with Uber Elevate, though launch remains years away. The company plans to submit its proposal for FAA approval in 2025 with a goal of launching in 2028. Check out our interview with the Supernal team here.
Additionally, you can see a more hands-on demonstration of the aircraft below.
Volkswagen brings ChatGPT to its cars and SUVs
Image Credits: Volkswagen
Just when you thought you could avoid a mention of ChatGPT in this roundup, here it is: Volkswagen kicked off CES by announcing that its AI chatbot will be added to its IDA voice assistant. Although like its standard form factor, the voice-powered ChatGPT could be fooled, as we learned in a hands-on demo.
Kia’s modular EV line-up is revealed
Image credits: Kirsten Korosech
Flip phones may have come and gone, but Kia hopes modular vehicles will be a little more successful. Both the electric drivetrain and the tops of the vehicles are modular and connected via electromagnets. A three-row van, the Kia PV5, is targeting a price around $35,000 and a 2025 launch. Read our first impressions here.
Google Maps adds real-time battery information for electric vehicle owners
Image Credits: Google
Android Auto will now provide a clear indication of your car’s charge status, along with recommended charging stops and an estimate of how much charge will be left once you reach your destination. See all the details, as well as some additional travel planning updates, here.
