CES has become increasingly defined by what automakers and other mobility-focused companies bring to Las Vegas. CES 2024 was no exception. While some of the major auto players from past years’ CES, such as Ford, GM, and Toyota, didn’t have a large presence, others were excited about EV reveals, flying cars, and “software-defined vehicles” and generation. We filled the gap with many topics related to AI.
The TechCrunch team, led by transportation editor Kirsten Korosec, continues to cover CES from the Las Vegas showgrounds, so you can catch up on all the mobility news here.
Hydrogen is making a big comeback
Participants ride the hydrogen fuel cell train at SK Group’s SK Wonderland booth during CES 2024. Image credits: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Although the underlying technology for hydrogen-powered cars has existed for some time, it has been supplanted by battery-powered electric vehicles. But at CES 2024, many companies were touting its benefits, from Nikola to Hyundai to Bosch. We dig deeper into Hyundai’s plans and find out why this is the year that several companies turn to hydrogen.
What exactly is a software-defined vehicle?
Image credits: Lyudinka/Getty Images (modified by TechCrunch)
This phrase was a hot topic at CES 2024, so I’m glad you asked about it.
One expert told TechCrunch that the vehicle is defined as a vehicle that “can have its functionality upgraded over time, essentially through software, without having to replace any physical parts.” But this is just the tip of the iceberg. You can see the full overview here.
Honda’s 0 Series EV, saloon and space hub concept debuts
Honda has announced a concept EV and previews the new 0 series lineup. Image credits: Kirsten Kolosek
If you’re tired of “thick and heavy” EVs, Honda offers you a different vision. While the automaker showed off a more sophisticated design with its saloon concept, the Space Hub takes a more family-oriented van approach. Beyond the concept, Honda is targeting a North American launch of his 0 Series lineup in his 2026 year. Check out the first look here.
Polestar explains why it sticks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Image credits: polar star
While other automakers have chosen to make cars like the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV incompatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Polestar has added additional features for drivers to use inside the car. We are committed to making our services more flexible. In an exclusive interview with TechCrunch, company CEO Thomas Ingenlath explained why.
Pivotal begins selling electric personal aircraft
30 minutes from storage to flight. A 16-foot road trailer holds everything you need to transport Helix into uncrowded Class G airspace. Image credits: extremely important
Backed by Google co-founder Larry Page, Pivotal plans to start shipping its $190,000 Helix car in June, and the company told TechCrunch it has already taken pre-orders during CES. He said he is collecting them. Learn more about Helix, including why it doesn’t require a Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification.
Hyundai’s eVTOL aircraft aims to launch in 2028
Image credits: Kirsten Kolosek
Supernal, a subsidiary of Hyundai, unveiled its new electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, the S-A2, at the exhibition hall. The aircraft is ultimately intended to power the air taxi network through a partnership with Uber Elevate, but full deployment is still several years away. The company aims to submit a proposal for FAA approval in 2025 and launch in 2028. Read our interview with the Supernal team here.
Additionally, check out our hands-on walkthrough of the aircraft below.
Volkswagen brings ChatGPT to its cars and SUVs
Image credits: Volkswagen
Just when you thought you could avoid mentioning ChatGPT in this overview, here it is. Volkswagen kicked off CES by announcing that an AI chatbot will be added to its IDA voice assistant. Like the standard form factor, his voice-based ChatGPT can also be fooled, but As we learned in the hands-on demo.
Kia Motors’ modular EV lineup revealed
Image credits: Kirsten Kolosek
Modular phones may have come and gone, but Kia is hoping the modular car will be a little more successful. Both the electric powertrain and the top of the vehicle are modular and connected via electromagnets. The Kia PV5, a three-row van, will cost about $35,000 and is targeted for release in 2025. Read our first impressions here.
Google Maps adds real-time battery information for EV owners
Image credits: Google
Android Auto gives you a clear indication of your car’s charging status, along with suggested charging stops and an estimate of how much charge you have left once you reach your destination. Check out all the details and additional updates on your travel plans here.
