The Consumer Electronics Show (CES), held every year in January in Las Vegas, is where the latest TVs, new phones, and smart just about everything is unveiled. Automakers don't want to be left out of that tech parade, so they, too, bring some of their best tech to the show. That now includes electric vehicles (EVs) as well as infotainment systems and driver assists. Here's everything automotive you missed at CES 2025.
BMW Panoramic Vision
BMW revealed a brand-new infotainment system that is bound for its Neue Klasse models as well as the rest of its new vehicles starting later this year. The showpiece is BMW Panoramic Vision, which turns the lower section of the windshield into multiple screens spanning the width of the car, all using a projector.
It can show different displays for maps and other information on the passenger side and in the centre, while the driver's side is used like a traditional dashboard. That dash-like display lets BMW move the traditional centre screen closer to the steering wheel, making it easier to reach key features while your hand stays on the wheel.
Behind it all is new hardware and software with the usual updates of being faster and easier to use. The system is more thoroughly integrated into the vehicle, letting you control even more functions, including, eventually, windows and mirrors, by voice. BMW Operating System X also drops the iDrive knob controller, which has been controversial since it was introduced in 2001.
Hyundai Mobis Holographic Windshield
BMW wasn't the only automaker with a fancy windshield display. Hyundai Mobis had a holographic display that could project information, including speed and safety alerts, across the entire glass surface. It also looks different depending on your seat in the vehicle, which would let a passenger watch a movie on the go that the driver can't see. Don't expect this one for a few years at least, though; the Hyundai supplier says it won't be ready for the road until at least 2027.
Honda and Sony Taking Orders for Afeela EV
Honda and Sony, working together under the banner Sony Honda Mobility (SHM), revealed the production version of the Afeela 1 EV. The new model is set to go into production next year at a Honda plant in Ohio.
SHM promises a 500-km range and 150-kW fast charging with a NACS plug. It should also deliver 483 hp from two electric motors. An advanced driver assistance system with a sensor suite that includes advanced LiDAR sensors promises to deliver increased safety and reduced driver effort. SHM promises frequent over-the-air updates to give the car a longer than typical lifespan.
The automaker partnership has already started taking deposits from California residents interested in buying the Afeela. Neither pricing nor availability for Canada has been confirmed, but the launch model Signature car starts from US$102,900 south of the border, suggesting a price close to CA$150,000 if it comes to Canada.
Scout Off-Roaders Get Satellite Internet
Scout, the Volkswagen-owned brand that has been revived to build electrified pickups and SUVs, revealed some of the tech it plans to offer when it starts selling vehicles in 2027. The tech it showed includes a new user experience operating system that it said was designed, with community feedback from potential customers playing a major role. Scout wants a phone-like interface, large 16.2-inch screens, and icons designed for "low-effort interaction." The company also confirmed it plans to offer satellite connectivity instead of just cellular because that's what off-road enthusiasts want.
Continental Car Exterior Screens
Automotive supplier and tire maker Continental offered a solution to big billboards on taxis and ride-hail service cars. It showed a screen projector that would display ads and information on a vehicle's side window.
Continental said that the tech would be perfect for identifying ride-share vehicles, including giving you personalized greetings, but we know the real purpose: to display ads using the high-definition projector and electro-chromatic rear side windows.
Honda's Lambo-Like 0 Series On Sale Next Year
Honda had more than just its Sony partnership at the show. It also brought its two new 0 Series EVs and confirmed that the exotic-looking models will go into production next year.
The automaker calls the design of the car and SUV "thin, light, and wise." We're not sure how that will apply to the finished product, but the intent is a more spacious cabin with excellent visibility. These still look like concepts, but when Honda calls something a "prototype," the end result is normally all but identical. This has us wondering if Honda can really bring these futuristic EVs to market. Whatever the production car looks like, it will come with new eyes-off Level 3 autonomous driving called Honda Sensing Elite and a new updatable software suite inside.
Waymo Zeeker Robotaxis
Chinese automaker Zeeker looks to be headed to roads in the U.S. as part of a supply deal with Google-owned robotaxi company, Waymo. The Zeeker RT, with 13 cameras, four LiDAR units, six radars, and more, will be used for the American company's fleet. The cars are already on the road in San Francisco and could expand to L.A. Other Waymo test markets, including Phoenix, are likely going to come soon. So when you're headed somewhere warm this winter, don't be surprised if your airport ride doesn't have a driver.
Mercedes-Benz Gets IMAX On Tiny Screens
It might sound dull with all of this other cutting-edge tech, but Mercedes-Benz is bringing IMAX-enhanced movies to your car. Sony Pictures Entertainment's service Ridevu is coming to some Benz models later this year. Some movies will be free, and others will be available to rent. The driver can only watch while parked, but the passengers and riders in the back will be able to get an in-flight-like experience while they drive. DTS:X immersive audio will also be included in the package.
Donut Labs Builds an 845-HP In-Wheel Electric Motor
An engineering startup called Donut Labs brought an in-wheel electric motor to CES. The 21-inch motor weighs 40 kg (88 lbs), but it can deliver 845 hp and 3,171 lb-ft of torque. In-wheel motors, which have been sort of an automotive holy grail for more than 125 years, let carmakers eliminate axles, CV shafts, and loads of other expensive parts.
This unit is the most power-dense electric motor for cars anywhere. Donut Labs also brought motors designed for semi trucks (imagine a six-motor semi), motorcycles, and even drones to CES this year. Far from being just a pipe dream, the company's motors are already being used by the Finnish motorcycle company Verge.
