CES has more and more change into outlined by what automakers and different mobility-focused corporations convey to Las Vegas, and CES 2024 has been no exception. Although some main CES automotive gamers from previous years like Ford, GM and Toyota didn’t have a giant presence, different corporations crammed the gaps with EV reveals, flying autos and plenty of speak about “software-defined autos” and generative AI.
Because the TechCrunch staff continues to cowl CES from the present ground in Vegas, led by Transportation Editor Kirsten Korosec, you possibly can make amends for all the mobility information proper right here because it is available in.
Honda’s 0 sequence EVs, Saloon and Area-Hub ideas debut
Honda unveils idea EVs and teases new 0 sequence lineup. Picture Credit: Kirsten Korosec
In the event you’re bored with “thick, heavy” EVs, Honda has an alternate imaginative and prescient for you. The carmaker showcased a extra glossy design for its Saloon idea, whereas the Area-Hub takes a extra family-friendly van method. Past the ideas, Honda is focusing on 2026 for a North American launch of the 0 sequence lineup. Try our first look proper right here.
Pivotal begins promoting its electrical private plane
From storage to flight in half-hour. A 16′ street trailer can maintain all the pieces wanted to take the Helix to uncongested, Class G airspace areas. Picture Credit: Pivotal
Backed by Google co-founder Larry Web page, Pivotal will start transport its $190,000 Helix autos in June, with the corporate telling TechCrunch that they’ve already been gathering preorders throughout CES. Learn the complete rundown on the Helix right here, together with why it doesn’t require a Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification.
Hyundai’s eVTOL plane units sights on a 2028 launch
Picture Credit: Kirsten Korosec
Supernal, a Hyundai subsidiary, confirmed off its new S-A2 electrical vertical takeoff and touchdown plane on the present ground. The craft is finally supposed to gasoline a community of arial taxis by way of a partnership with Uber Elevate, although a rollout stays years away. The corporate intends to submit its proposal for FAA approval in 2025 with a launch focused in 2028. Try our interview with the Supernal staff right here.
Plus you possibly can take a look at a extra hands-on walkthrough of the plane beneath.
Volkswagen brings ChatGPT into its vehicles and SUVs
Picture Credit: Volkswagen
Simply whenever you thought you may keep away from a ChatGPT point out on this rundown, right here it’s: Volkswagen kicked off CES by saying the AI chat bot could be added to its IDA voice assistant. Although like its normal kind issue, the voice-powered ChatGPT might nonetheless be tricked, as we discovered in a hands-on demo.
Kia’s modular EV lineup is revealed
Picture credit: Kirsten Korosec
Modular telephones might have come and gone, however Kia hopes modular autos could have a bit extra success. Each the electrical powertrain and the autos’ tops are modular and related by way of electromagnets. A 3-row van, the Kia PV5, is focusing on an approximate $35,000 price ticket and a 2025 launch. Learn our first impressions right here.
Google Maps provides real-time battery data for EV homeowners
Picture Credit: Google
Android Auto will now present a transparent indication of your automobile’s cost state, together with urged charging stops and an estimation of how a lot cost will stay when you attain your vacation spot. Try all the main points, plus some further journey planning updates, right here.
