CES 2024 brought together a wide range of thrilling advancements in transportation technology, showcasing the latest innovations in electric cars, artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and more. While electric vehicles (EVs) were a major highlight, the event featured companies and startups focusing on automated driving, EV charging, software (specifically AI), sensors, aviation, boats, drones, micromobility, and more. Even the big three U.S. automakers, GM, Ford, and Stellantis, along with Honda, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Sony, Turkey’s Togg, and Vinfast, displayed their electric concepts and production cars.
Notably, the electrification wave has permeated every corner of transportation, extending beyond cars to motorcycles, e-bikes, go-karts, big rigs, boats, and even aircraft. Segway unveiled two electric scooters, two e-bikes, and a Segway GoKart Pro 2, which can be connected to a PC for racing games. Numerous startups made their presence felt at CES, demonstrating their offerings in e-bikes, motorcycles, and urban mobility vehicles. For instance, Land Energy presented its sporty swappable battery e-bike, while Verge Motorcycles showcased the Verge TS Ultra, an electric motorcycle boasting advanced driver-assist tech and a powerful 201 horsepower and 885 pound-feet of torque.
The event also witnessed the prominence of electric aircraft and drones. Pivotal opened up online orders for its personal electric aircraft, the Helix, while autonomous on-demand drone companies Zipline and Wing scored a major deal with Walmart. Hyundai’s advanced air mobility unit, Supernal, unveiled its production-intent electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, and Xpeng Aeroht, the subsidiary of Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng Motors, presented a new concept and announced forthcoming deliveries of its Land Aircraft Carrier in late 2025.
With the prevalence of electric vehicles, it’s no surprise that EV charging companies had a significant presence at CES 2024. In addition to established charging infrastructure companies, startups showcased EV charging software and novel approaches such as WiTricity’s wireless charging technology.
Artificial intelligence was a dominant theme at CES 2024, appearing in various transportation sectors, including cars, e-bikes, scooters, and electric aviation. Companies emphasized the integration of AI into software, enhancing products such as vehicle sensors, voice assistants, and autonomous driving systems. Generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, also received substantial attention. BMW and Volkswagen collaborated with software company Cerence to showcase ChatGPT’s capabilities, aiming to integrate it into their voice assistants for enhanced conversational experiences.
Although hydrogen power has taken a backseat to traditional battery electric vehicles in recent years, CES 2024 witnessed a resurgence of hydrogen-powered vehicles. Hyundai highlighted hydrogen fuel cells and its vision for alternative fuel, while Nikola displayed its U.S.-built hydrogen trucks. Additionally, Bosch announced its plans to produce an engine capable of combusting hydrogen, and truck maker PACCAR showcased a hydrogen-powered truck.
Interior technology for vehicles was another noteworthy segment at CES 2024. Touchscreens were prevalent, including the popular curved design. Beyond touchscreens, companies showcased advancements in safety, health assessments, and entertainment. Eye-tracking technology was widely featured, with Harman’s Ready Care system measuring drivers’ eye activity, cognitive load, and vital signs to gauge their focus on the road. Bosch demonstrated how eye-tracking could identify points of interest during a drive, providing contextual information. Mercedes presented a comprehensive package of features, incorporating an upgraded voice assistant, in-car gaming, immersive audio, and an app by will.i.am’s Sound Drive that synchronizes throttle, brakes, and steering with song selection.
CES 2024 exhibited the latest breakthroughs in transportation technology, emphasizing electric vehicles, AI integration, hydrogen power, and innovations in vehicle interiors. The event highlighted the continuous evolution of the transportation sector and the remarkable advancements that are shaping the future of mobility.
