Last week saw the 2024 edition of the Consumer Electronics Show, an annual trade show that showcases the latest technology from around the world.
In the last decade, CES has been dominated by the automotive industry, and 2024 was no different.
To help keep you in the loop, this blog explores some of the most exciting car technologies revealed at CES 2024.
Honda revealed they’re launching the Honda 0 Series in 2026, a new EV series for global markets. The thought behind the ‘0’ origin is that it’ll create a new point of origin for the next generation of Honda EVs.
They showed the 0 Series Saloon and Space-hub concepts, both offering a glimpse at the design and EV philosophy Honda is heading towards. The Saloon is their flagship concept model, while the Space-Hub is a spacious vehicle that offers a flexible space to accommodate whatever the user wants to do.
The 0 Series is being developed with a new approach: thin, light, and wise, to offer five core values:
- Artistic design that evokes resonance
- AD/ADAS that ensures safety and peace of mind
- A ‘space’ for people made possible by the Internet of Things and connected technologies
- The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the car
- Outstanding electricity efficiency performance
BMW is always at the forefront of new technologies across the automotive industry, and CES 2024 was no different.
The German manufacturer certainly made a statement of intent, showcasing a range of new technologies such as augmented reality, teleoperated parking, and generative AI.
The most notable was the XReal Air 2 augmented reality glasses. With the glasses on, BMW projects driver information into the real-world environment, helping the driver with things such as directions, safety, and entertainment.
BMW also revealed their automated Level 4 parking solutions and automated valet parking. You simply leave the car in the designated parking area, and the vehicle searches for a vacant parking space itself. Even better, it can even drive back to the pick-up area for collection by the driver!
Mercedes-Benz revealed their new MBUX Virtual Assistant that’s powered by generative AI. Running on their new operating system, the virtual assistant makes for an extraordinary digital experience.
It uses advanced software to create a human-like relationship with the car and offers proactive support to make the driving experience much easier. For instance, it can offer suggestions based on learned behaviour and situational context, dial into online meetings for the driver, and play the latest news in the mornings.
You can also select from four personality traits: Natural, Predictive, Personal, and Empathetic. All of which alter the behaviour and responses of the assistant to suit your reference.
Mercedes also revealed that their AMG division has teamed up with will.i.am to launch MBUX SOUND DRIVE. Using advanced software, it allows music to react to how the car is being driven, turning every trip into a dynamic musical experience.
Check out the video below for more details:
Kia announced plans to break into the electric commercial vehicle market, or as the Korean manufacturer calls them, ‘Platform Beyond Vehicles’.
They revealed three PBV models: the PV5, PV7, and PV1. All electric commercial vehicles of different sizes, the PBV platform offers users a blank canvas to redefine how space and mobility can adapt to their needs by providing exceptional flexibility.
The concept PV5 is our best indication of what their PBVs will look like. A mid-sized commercial vehicle, the PV5 allows the driver to configure the interior for various scenarios, whether transporting a family or delivering cargo.
The concept PV5 will begin production in 2025.
Hydrogen energy has been subject to much speculation within the automotive industry in recent years, and this has just been taken up a notch thanks to Hyundai.
Under the theme ‘Ease every way’, Hyundai highlights its commitment to lead innovations with hydrogen energy. They showcased exhibits demonstrating hydrogen and ‘software-defined vehicles’ as part of their plans for the future.
Hyundai introduced HTWO’s hydrogen value chain solution that spans production, storage, transportation and utilisation. It details the development of a Megawatt-scale PEM electrolyser for green hydrogen production.
The Hyundai Motor Group projects to off-take 3 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2035.
Looking for more car news? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produces a range of blogs on various topics, such as The Role of Technology in Preventing Drowsy Driving Accidents and The Tesla Cybertruck: All You Need to Know.
We are also one of the UK’s largest car leasing brokers, offering a range of leasing deals to suit your every need. For more information, check out our leasing deals or call 0345 811 9595.
