These are the mobility highlights from Las Vegas!

CES Crowns “Innovation Champions” 

At CES in Las Vegas, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) honored 24 countries for their innovative prowess: Germany, Australia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, the UK, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Canada, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, the Czech Republic, and the United States. The ranking, which assesses 40 indicators in 17 categories, primarily recognized nations with well-trained workforces, fast broadband connectivity, an entrepreneurial climate, and an openness to new technologies. Established in 2019, the system evaluates political, economic, and demographic conditions that encourage innovators to imagine—and invent—the future. 

NVIDIA Focuses on AI, Robotics, and Autonomous Driving 

At CES in Las Vegas, NVIDIA rolled out its vision for solidifying its lead in AI chip technology. During a keynote, CEO Jensen Huang introduced advanced solutions like the high-performance “Thor” computer, designed to handle data from various sensor systems and merge diverse in-vehicle functions—supporting both autonomous driving and humanoid robots. 

NVIDIA also unveiled its Cosmos platform for generating realistic videos and simulations, key for training robots and self-driving vehicles. Another highlight was the Omniverse Replicator software, which creates lifelike traffic simulations to train autonomous car AI. Alongside new industrial applications and AI chips, NVIDIA presented “Digits,” a desktop-scale AI supercomputer that makes AI development more accessible for smaller teams. 

Looking ahead, NVIDIA plans to work with cities to create smart traffic infrastructures that communicate with autonomous vehicles. For logistics firms, NVIDIA aims to provide AI solutions that monitor and optimize fleets in real time. Jensen Huang also announced partnerships with Toyota, Continental, Uber, Aurora, and KION. 

BMW Debuts Panoramic iDrive 

BMW seized the opportunity in Las Vegas to showcase its new Panoramic iDrive, set to debut in late 2025 with the upcoming “Neue Klasse” models. This groundbreaking display and control system projects key driving info—like speed and navigation—across the entire width of the windshield, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road. A wide display running from one A-pillar to the other also provides 3D-effect information visible to both driver and passengers. 

The system, running on BMW Operating System X, will be integrated into all new BMW models starting late 2025. Another highlight is the redesigned steering wheel with haptic feedback for intuitive operation. BMW’s new iDrive system further uses AI to learn driver habits and offer personalized suggestions, such as activating Sport mode. The first model to include it, a new X-series SUV, is scheduled for release in late 2025 on the all-electric Neue Klasse platform. 

Samsung Unveils “AI for All”: Everyday, Everywhere 

Samsung presented its expanded vision for “AI for All: Everyday, Everywhere,” aiming to bring artificial intelligence into people’s daily lives. Beyond new home appliance, mobile, and TV products, Samsung announced a partnership with Hyundai Motor Group to integrate SmartThings into Hyundai’s EVs. For instance, SmartThings Find will make it easier to locate your parked vehicle—even in a crowded lot. 

With Home AI, SmartThings can also offer recommendations on when to charge your EV based on varying electricity rates. In the event of a power outage, a Battery Backup Mode will automatically switch on in conjunction with AI Energy Mode to maintain essential power at home. 

Samsung and Harman are also collaborating on a new in-car avatar that works with Harman’s Ready Care and Ready Vision products to function as a digital co-pilot, anticipating driver needs. Together with Samsung Heavy Industries, Samsung is developing a SmartThings solution based on Matter connectivity standards to enhance control over ship operations—adjusting engines, temperature, and lighting to save time and energy, while alerting crew members to unusual incidents. 

 

Toyota Updates Progress on Woven City and Collaborates with NVIDIA for Autonomous Vehicles 

Toyota announced initial successes in constructing “Woven City,” its futuristic urban lab located at the foot of Mount Fuji. It’s designed to test and develop technologies such as self-driving vehicles, robotics, and smart homes—including robots for seniors and small lantern drones for joggers. Toyota envisions using autonomous shuttles to transport people throughout the city. 

The company plans to have the first 100 residents move in this fall, eventually growing to about 2,000 occupants—researchers, employees, and retirees. Toyota also revealed a partnership with NVIDIA to use the Orin chip and DriveOS in upcoming self-driving vehicles, leveraging AI to power Toyota’s next-generation autonomous models. 

Continental Showcases Demo Car with Smart Features and More Innovations  

Continental demonstrated technologies that aim to redefine vehicles from the road to the cloud, including its Intelligent Vehicle Experience Car. Leveraging biometrics and AI, this concept car can recognize people approaching, identify authorized users via facial recognition, interpret hand gestures near the door, and even open the trunk if an approved individual gazes at it long enough. 

Continental also showcased its Emotional Cockpit, featuring the latest display tech enhanced by Swarovski design elements. It houses a user-friendly interface, AI assistance, and small interactive “widgets.” In partnership with NVIDIA and Aurora, Continental announced a strategic collaboration to roll out driverless trucks on a large scale. Core to this plan is integrating NVIDIA’s DRIVE Thor SoC into Aurora Driver, an SAE Level 4 autonomous system. Continental will industrialize and manufacture the hardware starting in 2027 for autonomous freight operations in the US. 

Sony and Honda Reveal the Afeela 1 EV

Sony and Honda introduced their joint electric vehicle, the Afeela 1, in Las Vegas. Bringing together Sony’s entertainment electronics expertise with Honda’s automotive know-how, the Afeela 1 is envisioned as a rolling multimedia and entertainment hub. It features advanced driver-assistance systems backed by 40 cameras and sensors (cameras, LiDAR, radar, and ultrasonic sensors) and an 800-TOPS computer for processing power. 

Sony is partnering with Qualcomm to develop a “Snapdragon Chassis,” integrating 45 cameras and sensors. A subscription model offers autonomous driving features and the “Afeela Personal Agent” free for three years, with pricing details to follow. The vehicle promises a range of up to 300 miles and will be compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network. AR navigation is also planned, combining real and virtual elements for intuitive guidance. 

Sales are slated to begin this year in California, with deliveries starting mid-2026. Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) aims to introduce it in Japan in 2026, followed by a European launch thereafter. 

Siemens Showcases Innovations in Industrial AI and Digital Twins 

Siemens brought forward-thinking technologies to CES that promise to transform manufacturing. The Siemens Industrial Copilot for Operations integrates AI directly into production facilities, allowing real-time decision-making on the factory floor. 

Siemens also presented plans with aviation startup JetZero to develop a blended-wing aircraft—expected to improve fuel efficiency by 50% and reduce noise. JetZero will use Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform, to design, build, and operate this cutting-edge plane. 

Partnering with NVIDIA, Siemens aims to bring physics-based visualization to product lifecycle management, enabling realistic simulations that cover an entire product’s life. Siemens also announced “Siemens for Startups,” a program helping small businesses access industrial tech. Collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS), Siemens offers these companies the Xcelerator platform to accelerate innovation and strengthen their market position. 

Honda Debuts Prototypes of the Honda 0 Series

Honda revealed two prototypes of its upcoming all-electric Honda 0 Series in Las Vegas. Set to launch worldwide in 2026, these models follow the “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach—designing slimmer vehicles that still provide maximum comfort. 

Using ultra-high-strength materials and innovative manufacturing, Honda aims to reduce weight, improving both driving dynamics and electric efficiency. The company also unveiled a new operating system planned for the Honda 0 Series, supporting automated driving technologies and seamless software updates. At the heart of these software-defined vehicles lies a custom System-on-Chip (SoC) that will enable advanced driver assistance and automated driving features. 

Neural Concept and OPmobility Showcase AI-Assisted Vehicle Designs  

In Las Vegas, Neural Concept—an end-to-end 3D AI platform—joined OPmobility, a sustainable mobility solutions provider, to announce a collaboration on cutting-edge AI-assisted designs for hybrid, hydrogen, and fully electric vehicle bodies. 

By integrating Neural Concept’s generative 3D AI into product development, OPmobility aims to speed innovation, strengthen design robustness, and reduce both costs and time to market. One project example is an entirely new fuel tank design for plug-in hybrid EVs. With Neural Concept’s 3D AI platform, OPmobility engineers can simulate acoustic pressure shifts and fluid dynamics within seconds. 

Qualcomm Fuels the Future of Mobility with New Automotive Solutions

Qualcomm also unveiled a host of mobility and automotive innovations at CES, alongside new AI features for computers and smart homes. The Snapdragon Digital Chassis serves as the foundation for numerous automotive applications, from digital cockpits and ADAS to connectivity solutions. Several automakers announced that they plan to power new vehicle models with this technology. Leapmotor will use the Snapdragon Digital Chassis for its Leapmotor B10. Mahindra intends to implement it in its new all-electric SUV series. Garmin and Qualcomm co-developed a cockpit solution built on the Snapdragon Cockpit Elite Platform, offering voice control, advanced navigation, and infotainment. Panasonic Automotive Systems is working with Qualcomm to design new cockpit architectures with enhanced AI capabilities. Hyundai Mobis and Qualcomm are co-developing next-generation ADAS and digital cockpits. Desay SV is collaborating on an intelligent cabin platform that uses AI to deliver personalized in-car services. Qualcomm is expanding its partnership with Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) to integrate Generative AI (GenAI) for improved driver-vehicle interaction and personalized services. Together with Amazon, Qualcomm is working on AI-powered voice assistants that let drivers and passengers access Amazon services without a smartphone. Even in electric two-wheelers, Qualcomm’s innovations are taking hold: Royal Enfield plans to equip its Flying Flea model with the Snapdragon platform to add intelligent connectivity and safety features. 

Urtopia Introduces “Titanium Zero” Concept E-Bike 

E-bike maker Urtopia showcased the “Titanium Zero” concept bike in Las Vegas, pushing boundaries with cutting-edge materials and technologies. Featuring a custom-built motor, a 3D-printed titanium alloy frame, and a solid-state battery, the Titanium Zero weighs roughly 10 kg (including motor and battery). 

The motor weighs just 1.2 kg and delivers up to 60 Nm of torque, making it exceptionally compact and powerful for its class. Carbon wheels, carbon cranks, and a titanium seat post further reduce weight to meet that 10 kg target. 

Bosch eBike Systems Reveals “Battery Lock” Anti-Theft Technology

Bosch eBike Systems unveiled “Battery Lock,” a new feature designed to take e-bike battery theft prevention to the next level. Once activated via the eBike Flow app, the battery automatically locks when the bike powers down, rendering it useless if stolen. If someone tries to install that locked battery in another Bosch “smart system” bike, it disables motor assistance and the entire bike—making theft pointless. Battery Lock will work with all Bosch batteries and battery combos in the Bosch smart system. 

KION Group, NVIDIA, and Accenture Use AI Robots and Digital Twins to Improve Supply Chains 

In Las Vegas, the KION Group teamed with NVIDIA and Accenture to showcase how AI and digital twins can optimize supply chains. Their solution, Mega, provides a blueprint for industrial digital twins in NVIDIA Omniverse, using “physical AI” to reflect real-world principles in a virtual environment. 

They aim to transform intelligent warehouses through automated forklifts, smart cameras, and state-of-the-art automation and robotics. KION’s warehouse management software, combined with AI-driven robots, can assign tasks—like moving goods from buffer zones to designated storage locations—in a continuous learning loop. The digital twin simulates and tests configurations, training robots to adapt to changing warehouse conditions. Accenture developed an interactive demo to illustrate how this approach can improve key warehouse performance metrics. 

Maserati Shows Off Autonomous MC20 Supercar

Maserati revealed a new version of its MC20 supercar in Las Vegas, equipped with a fully autonomous driving system powered by AI. Late in 2024, this sports car set a real-world record by reaching 285 km/h during a high-speed test on the runway of Piacenza-San Damiano Airport in Italy. 

Elmos Semiconductor SE Debuts New Automotive Sensor Solutions

Elmos Semiconductor SE showcased sensor solutions that introduce touch-free vehicle controls—like opening doors and starting the engine with simple hand gestures. They also unveiled a new generation of LED drivers designed to reduce energy consumption in vehicle lighting without compromising brightness or overall performance. 

ENGWE Launches “Mapfour” Smart E-Bike Series for Commuters 

E-bike manufacturer ENGWE presented its new “Mapfour” lineup in Las Vegas, targeting commuter needs. Equipped with motors up to 750 watts and batteries offering up to 120 kilometers of range, these e-bikes aim to handle longer commutes without recharging. Smart features include an integrated display showing speed, battery level, and navigation in real time, while an app with GPS tracking helps prevent theft. 

John Deere Introduces Autonomous Tractors and Machinery 

Agricultural equipment maker John Deere showcased autonomous machines in Las Vegas, highlighted by a self-driving tractor that can plow, seed, and harvest without a human operator. The AI-powered tractor senses obstacles and plots its own routes. John Deere also displayed autonomous machines designed for use in orchards, capable of pruning plants and mowing grass between rows—previously labor-intensive tasks done by hand.