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.
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.
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.
