Here are the mobility trends for 2024 in Las Vegas!

Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT into Its Current Vehicle Models 

Volkswagen has announced the integration of the ChatGPT chatbot into its production vehicles. At the event in Las Vegas, the brand unveiled vehicles equipped with the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT integrated into its voice assistant, IDA for the first time. This integration will allow drivers of all Volkswagen models equipped with the IDA voice assistant to access the ever-growing AI database of the chatbot. It aims to provide passengers the ability to research content and interact with the vehicle in natural language while driving. The integration is being implemented with the help of Cerence, a specialist in voice software solutions, whose technology is being used in IDA. Starting from the second quarter, Volkswagen plans to offer the chatbot in a variety of current VW models and models from other group brands based on the MEB and MQB evo platforms with voice assistants, initially in select markets. With this move, Volkswagen is following in the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz, which announced last June its plans to make ChatGPT available for its American customers in their vehicles. 

Bosch, in collaboration with Cariad, has introduced a current test project for automatic charging, consolidates infotainment and driver assistance systems onto a single System-on-chip with Qualcomm, and is developing an H2 engine for heavy-duty vehicles 

In partnership with Qualcomm, Bosch unveiled a new generation of onboard computers in Las Vegas. Together, they introduced a platform capable of running both, infotainment and driver assistance systems on a single processor, known as a System-on-Chip (SoC). With the introduction of the new cockpit and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) integration platform, and their combined hardware and software capabilities, Bosch has become the first global supplier to offer the integration of system functions from previously separate domains in a central computer. Enabled by the collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies. The goal is to reduce the complexity of electronic systems in cars while making them as safe as possible. The new vehicle computers are designed to accommodate SoCs from various manufacturers. 

Additionally, Bosch, in collaboration with Volkswagen's subsidiary Cariad, has showcased an innovative solution for driverless parking and charging of electric vehicles. This system merges Automated Valet Parking and Automated Valet Charging technologies, enabling electric vehicles to autonomously navigate to parking spots, equipped with charging facilities and automatically charge using a charging robot. This technology is currently being tested in two of Bosch's own test parking garages – at Cariad's employee parking in Ingolstadt for driverless parking and at Bosch's development parking garage in Ludwigsburg for driverless charging. The system involves a robotic arm that autonomously opens the car's charging port and connects the vehicle to a charging cable. Once the battery is fully charged, the robot is designed to independently disconnect the cable. The objective of this method is to enable the charging and parking of multiple vehicles without human intervention, increase the efficiency of charging infrastructure, improve the utilization of charging stations, and reduce waiting times for charging stations. 

Furthermore, Bosch is continuing to invest in hydrogen technologies and is developing an H2 engine for heavy-duty vehicles, expected to hit the market later this year. 

BMW is advancing remote control capabilities for the BMW iX and focusing on Augmented Reality glasses as well as gaming and entertainment options 

BMW is increasingly focusing on the digital experience inside its vehicles, both now and in the future. This week in Las Vegas, the company showcased how a BMW can be operated remotely. This feature is designed to enable the vehicle to function in scenarios where self-driving systems currently reach their limits. If the vehicle encounters a situation it cannot handle by itself, an experienced individual can take control. They can then guide the vehicle to its parking spot and back to the designated return location using live camera feeds. 

Additionally, BMW presented for the first time how Augmented Reality (AR) glasses could enhance the driving experience in the future. Visitors in Las Vegas had the opportunity to test the capabilities of the "XREAL Air 2" glasses. These glasses are intended to allow passengers to see navigation and hazard warnings, entertainment content, information about charging stations, and visual aids for parking, all integrated into their real-world surroundings. 

BMW is also increasingly focusing on gaming and entertainment options in its vehicles. Plans include implementing support for actual game controllers and expanding video options. Furthermore, BMW has enhanced the capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant through generative AI. This assistant, powered by the Alexa Large Language Model, is expected to provide occupants with quick instructions and responses to vehicle functions in a more human-like, conversational manner, while also controlling some vehicle functions. 

Mercedes-Benz introduces new MBUX Virtual Assistant and celebrates a North American debut 

Mercedes-Benz is also working on human-like interactions for AI assistants. At the event in Las Vegas, Mercedes-Benz introduced the new MBUX Virtual Assistant, based on generative AI, as part of an enhanced onboard system. This system is designed to make life aboard a Mercedes vehicle easier and significantly more comfortable for passengers. The virtual assistant, integrated with the proprietary MB.OS operating system, aims to ensure natural and empathetic human-like interactions with occupants. It will respond to the needs of the vehicle's occupants with various emotions, influenced by individual driving styles and personal moods. 

 

The first Mercedes-Benz with MB.OS is the Concept CLA Class, which made its North American debut at CES 2024. At CES, Mercedes-Benz also unveiled a range of groundbreaking entertainment features from two industry-first partnerships. Firstly, Mercedes-AMG has teamed up with American entrepreneur will.i.am to introduce MBUX SOUND DRIVE. This software allows music to respond to the driving style. In the second collaboration, Mercedes-Benz, Audible, and Amazon Music have joined forces. By using Dolby Atmos, passengers can enjoy audiobooks, originals, podcasts, and music with top-notch sound quality in the future.

Continental and Swarovski Unveil the Crystal Center Display 

At the event in Las Vegas, Continental unveiled the world's first automotive display for premium vehicles, featuring a touchscreen fully integrated into a crystal. According to the German automotive supplier, this frameless and semi-transparent design offers entirely new possibilities for minimalist luxury interiors. The ten-inch display, with its screen content embedded in a precision-cut crystal body, is based on the latest MicroLED technology, achieving unparalleled brightness and contrast levels, the company stated. This fusion of automotive design and real crystal was developed in collaboration with Swarovski Mobility, an Austrian manufacturer known for crystal glass jewelry stones, crystal glass sculptures, and crystal glass components. 

Hyundai Motor Company Unveils Their Vision for Hydrogen and Software-Defined Vehicles 

At the event in Las Vegas, Hyundai Motor unveiled their forward-thinking plans for a hydrogen energy ecosystem, along with new software-driven applications. A key component of this strategy is the use of hydrogen as an energy source. In this context, Hyundai announced the second generation of its fuel cell SUV, Nexo, set for release in 2026. However, Hyundai's vision extends beyond just hydrogen-powered vehicles. The company aims to develop a complete hydrogen ecosystem, encompassing applications in various sectors such as trams, specialized machinery, ships, power generators, and air mobility. The goal is to establish a comprehensive hydrogen energy ecosystem by 2035. Under the name HTWO, the company intends to develop a complete system for the production, storage, transportation, and utilization of hydrogen. Hyundai plans to use three million tons of hydrogen annually by 2035 to accelerate the transition to a sustainable future. This includes the market-ready development of a PEM electrolyzer (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) designed to produce cost-effective, green hydrogen on a megawatt scale. Hyundai also aims to work on hydrogen production from environmental pollutants. 

With its "Software-defined Everything" (SDx) strategy, Hyundai Motor also plans to optimize all vehicles, fleets, and ecosystems through advanced software and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to develop a mobility ecosystem that can meet users' needs anytime and anywhere. This includes developing new infotainment systems, supporting app developers with Software Development Kits (SDKs), and integrating a speech model into the vehicles' AI assistants. 

Hyundai and Xpeng Unveil Flying Taxis 

In addition, Hyundai showcased their S-A2 flight model in Las Vegas, an air taxi capable of carrying up to four passengers, set to be operational by 2028. The first test flights are expected to take place this year. The air taxi is designed to cover distances between 25 and over 37 miles, will be piloted, and is expected to be no louder than a dishwasher with its eight propellers. This model is an updated version of one that Hyundai presented four years ago. 

Meanwhile, the Chinese automaker Xpeng introduced a two-person flight capsule that can be transported in the cargo area of a van and removed for flight use. The U.S. company Pivotal has already started selling its small aircraft, Helix, in the USA, with deliveries planned for June. Notably, in the USA, a pilot's license is not required to operate this aircraft. 

Sony and Honda Present Advanced Electric Sedan Afeela 

At the event in Las Vegas, Sony and Honda showcased an advanced version of their joint electric vehicle, Afeela, with a strong emphasis on infotainment and digital applications. The vehicle makes its debut featuring a comprehensive array of large displays and functionalities. A partnership with Epic Games introduces new entertainment options to the interior, particularly gaming. Collaboration with Polyphony Digital, creators of the Gran Turismo racing simulation, will also bring advanced virtual visualizations to Afeela. Furthermore, Sony and Honda plan to work with Microsoft on implementing generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) to enhance the driving experience. The 4.90-meter-long electric vehicle will also be equipped with safety features and advanced driver assistance systems for Level-3 autonomy, utilizing technology from Qualcomm Technologies. Plans for fully autonomous driving are also in the pipeline for the future. 

Valeo Introduces Wireless Charging Solutions for Electric Vehicles 

At the event in Las Vegas, Valeo, a provider of charging solutions, debuted a wireless charging system for electric vehicles named Ineez Air Charging. This system operates at an extremely low frequency of just 3 kHz. It is designed to be compatible with all types of wall boxes, power grids (single or three-phase), and electric vehicles (400- to 800-volt batteries) worldwide. The system offers bidirectional charging capabilities and can be used at various charging locations, including public spaces (streets, parking lots, shopping centers, etc.) and private areas (homes, workplaces). Additionally, the system is designed to ensure future integration into vehicles that can autonomously park over the charging loop and automatically initiate the charging process. 

Marelli Introduces Intelligent External Display 

Marelli unveiled an Intelligent Social Display at the event in Las Vegas, a technology set to revolutionize communication between vehicles and their surroundings. This external display will enable vehicles to show pictograms and messages to other road users in the future, thereby enhancing safety and communication in traffic. Equipped with freely programmable signal pictograms, the display, for instance, could inform other road users when the vehicle is in autonomous mode or provide safety alerts for pedestrians. 

Hella and TÜV Rheinland announce plans to teach autonomous vehicles traffic rules in the future 

Hella and TÜV Rheinland announced a collaboration in the autonomous driving sector in Las Vegas and introduced a joint software module. The "Traffic Rule Engine" is designed to monitor planned actions of autonomous vehicle functions and compare them with current traffic regulations based on sensor and map data. If a deviation is detected, real-time feedback should be provided to the driving system. To ensure that the most up-to-date traffic rules of a country are always applied, the software module should also be capable of receiving over-the-air updates. 

Kia Unveils "Platform Beyond Vehicle" Vehicle Platform 

In Las Vegas, Kia unveiled its strategy for the new "Platform Beyond Vehicle," aimed at enabling flexible vehicle design tailored to diverse usage requirements, incorporating advanced technologies like robotics and autonomous driving. The company announced the launch of five different electric commercial vehicles, starting in 2025. Kia's Purpose-built Vehicles (PBV) business relies on new modular special vehicles and is seen as a "holistic mobility solution combining purposeful electric vehicles with advanced software solutions." Initially, Kia envisions the PV series for commercial use and has already announced partnerships with companies like Uber, Dubai Taxi Company, and German courier service DHL. 

In the first phase, Kia plans to introduce an electric vehicle optimized for various services like ride-sharing, delivery, and logistics. The second phase will see these vehicles evolving into AI-based mobility platforms. In the third phase, PBVs will become adaptable mobility solutions within a future mobility ecosystem, as the company recently announced. At the center of this strategy is the Kia PV5, a mid-sized van set to go into production in 2025. Alongside three versions of this mid-sized transporter, Kia also presents a compact van named PV1 and the large delivery van PV7. 

Honda unveils electric concepts "Saloon" and "Space-Hub"  

Honda offered a glimpse of its next-generation electric vehicles, the "Honda 0 Series," at CES. This lineup includes a sedan and a van, both featuring futuristic designs. The sleek sedan draws inspiration from dynamic sports car aesthetics, while the spacious van comes in larger dimensions. Honda is equipping these vehicles with E-Axles, consisting of a motor, inverter, and transmission, along with lightweight batteries that allow for fast charging from 15% to 80% in ten to fifteen minutes. The first model in the 0 Series is scheduled for a North American release in 2026, followed by launches in Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Additionally, Honda unveiled its new H-brand logo during CES, to be used for the next-generation electric vehicle models. 

Google Incorporates Real-Time Battery Information into Google Maps for Electric Vehicles 

In Las Vegas, Google introduced the integration of real-time battery charging information into Google Maps for electric vehicles. This feature, initially available in the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, allows drivers to estimate the remaining battery charge upon arrival at their destination and locate charging stations along the route. 

Google also announced an expansion of its Android Automotive ecosystem, which is already in use in vehicles by Polestar, Volvo, Stellantis, and soon Nissan and Lincoln. With Google Built-in, including apps like Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play, users will be able to send planned trips directly from their smartphones to the vehicle display. For parked cars, Google intends to offer occupants new optimized apps on Google Play, including the ability to browse with Chrome and consume various video content. Additionally, Google announced the introduction of Google Chrome for Android Automotive, starting with a beta version for Polestar and Volvo models. This development enhances the integration of Google services in vehicles utilizing Android Automotive. 

Samsung is teaming up with Tesla and Hyundai to integrate Smart Home systems 

Samsung has announced partnerships with Tesla and Hyundai for its Smart Home platform, SmartThings, at CES 2024. With Hyundai, Samsung plans to develop multiple "Home-to-Car" and "Car-to-Home" services. These services aim to connect the Smart Home with the infotainment systems in the vehicles, enabling remote control in both directions. Users will be able to perform various actions related to their car from home using the SmartThings platform, such as starting it, controlling the smart air conditioning, opening and closing windows, and checking the charging status. Likewise, control of household appliances like TVs, air conditioners, and chargers should be possible from the car. Users will be able to monitor the energy consumption of connected devices in their homes using the integrated energy management service. Additionally, they will have access to energy information from their electric vehicles and chargers, allowing them to schedule optimal charging times. Electric vehicles connected to the integrated energy management service will offer the capability to automatically set the best charging time, considering various factors such as time-based pricing, demand-response programs, photovoltaic and energy storage system data, and time-dependent carbon emissions. Furthermore, their collaboration with Tesla will enable access to the Tesla Powerwall via SmartThings, with future plans to access Tesla vehicles as well. Samsung is the first brand authorized to utilize the Tesla API for these purposes. 

ZF and Goodyear unveil smart chassis and tire communication 

ZF Friedrichshafen, a leading supplier, and Goodyear, the tire manufacturer, have announced their collaboration at CES in Las Vegas to integrate tire intelligence into vehicle motion control software. As part of this partnership, Goodyear's SightLine, a portfolio of intelligent tire technologies, will be integrated into ZF's cubiX ecosystem, a vehicle motion control software. This collaboration aims to enhance the driving experience by providing additional tire and road data, thereby improving safety and driving dynamics. It can, for example, detect aquaplaning situations early and recommend optimal speeds. ZF's cubiX can also enhance vehicle responsiveness, steering, and stability. 

Webasto and LG Display turn your car into a private cinema 

Webasto and LG Display have unveiled a transparent screen in Las Vegas that will be integrated into the vehicle's roof, turning the car into a private cinema. The 30-inch multimedia display can be lowered at the touch of a button, providing an immersive movie experience in the rear of the vehicle. When the display is turned off, its transparency allows for an unobstructed view of the sky and integrated light effects in the panoramic roof. 

Qualcomm aims to enable vehicle diagnostics through AI 

The US tech giant Qualcomm is actively developing a feature for its platform solutions, aiming to provide customers with vehicle diagnostics using generative AI. This innovation has the potential to allow car owners to receive onboard diagnostics when a warning light appears on the dashboard. In Las Vegas, Qualcomm showcased how this AI can diagnose issues, locate nearby repair shops, and even send cost estimates directly to the vehicle's display.