The automotive industry's presence at CES 2025 revealed a significant transformation, with notable absences from traditional players and the emergence of new entrants. Chinese manufacturers like Zeekr, Wey, and Xpeng filled the gap left by missing U.S. and European automakers. Despite a quieter West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center, several major announcements highlighted the future of transportation technology. One of the most intriguing developments was Toyota’s completion of the first phase of its prototype city, Woven City, which aims to foster innovation and startup collaboration. Additionally, Toyota hinted at ventures into rocketry, signaling an ambitious expansion beyond conventional automotive boundaries.

Autonomous vehicle technology took center stage at CES 2025, showcasing advancements that hint at the direction of the year ahead. Companies developing or launching robotaxi services, such as May Mobility, Tier IV, Waymo, and Zoox, demonstrated their latest innovations. Notably, Zoox provided media with pre-CES robotaxi rides, generating buzz around autonomous driving capabilities. Beyond urban settings, agricultural companies like John Deere and Kubota, along with startups like Polymath Robotics, exhibited self-driving systems for off-road environments. A substantial number of exhibitors focused on technologies supporting automated driving and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including simulation tools, machine learning platforms, sensors, and data integration solutions. Honda unveiled a new operating system named Asimo, designed for its next-gen EVs and ADAS features. Comma.ai also introduced an open-source driver-assistance system compatible with modern vehicles, offering functionalities similar to Tesla Autopilot and GM’s Super Cruise.

Nvidia’s extensive partnerships continued to dominate discussions at CES 2025. The tech giant solidified its role in providing comprehensive self-driving technology stacks, from testing and simulation to onboard supercomputers and cloud supercomputing. Nvidia’s collaboration with Toyota exemplifies this commitment, with plans to integrate Nvidia’s Drive AGX Orin System-on-a-Chip (SoC) and DriveOS into Toyota’s future vehicles. Nvidia also announced Level 4 autonomous vehicle collaborations with Aurora Innovation and Continental, aiming to mass-produce AV systems by 2027. Surprisingly, Uber partnered with Nvidia to utilize its Cosmos simulation tool and DGX Cloud platform, enhancing AV development despite not developing its own AV technology.

Screens and generative AI emerged as key trends in automotive innovation. Supplier Valeo introduced panovision, a full-screen display integrated into BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse vehicles, now featuring an in-cabin driver monitoring system. Hyundai Mobis showcased a holographic windshield screen, transforming the driving experience with transparent navigation and entertainment displays. Automakers embraced generative AI, with BMW partnering with Amazon to integrate Alexa’s large language models into its user interface for enhanced natural language processing in navigation. Qualcomm also emphasized generative AI in its Snapdragon Digital Chassis updates, promising intelligent and personalized in-cabin experiences. Features powered by Meta’s Llama and OpenAI’s Whisper Small included real-time driver state detection and biometric identification for customized vehicle settings.

Micromobility proved resilient at CES 2025, countering claims of its demise. Numerous ebike and scooter brands, predominantly Chinese, exhibited new models. Vmax launched six new scooters, Aima Technology Group unveiled several ebikes, and Heybikes introduced a mid-drive fat tire model. Segway debuted two smart ebikes equipped with its Intelligent Ride System. Verge Motorcycles subsidiary Donut Lab even presented an electric motor integrated directly into tires, showcasing innovative approaches within the micromobility sector.

CES 2025 underscored the dynamic evolution of the automotive industry, driven by emerging technologies and strategic partnerships. The event highlighted a shift towards autonomous and intelligent vehicles, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration. These advancements promise a future where transportation is safer, smarter, and more sustainable, reflecting a commitment to progress and societal well-being.