As the premier tech event of the United States, CES continues to be a haven for gadget enthusiasts. However, it has evolved into a significant platform for the automobile industry, spotlighting the present and future of sleek, electric, and technologically advanced vehicles.

CES is recognized for its fusion of advanced tech and high-octane drama, which has increasingly been focused on the auto sector in recent years. The previous year’s event gave us a glimpse of the Sony-Honda AFEELA car, advancements in self-driving technology, and even the concept of flying cars straight from the pages of science fiction.

The 2025 edition aims to maintain this trend. CES will dominate Las Vegas from January 7 to 10. Here are some highlights for electric vehicle (EV) fans, autonomous driving enthusiasts, and those who dream of a sky-high commute.

1. The latest EVs from top brands

Last year, Sony and Honda’s joint EV project, AFEELA, was unveiled at CES 2024. This year, tech giants are amplifying their efforts, allowing visitors to experience the vehicle’s state-of-the-art features and technology. The Sony Honda Mobility Group now oversees the project and plans to reveal pre-order details and other updates on January 7.

Furthermore, Honda will be showcasing two prototypes from its forthcoming 0 Series EV range. These vehicles are expected to be equipped with Honda’s proprietary operating system and “autonomous driving technology.”

2. Further advancements in autonomous driving and Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs)

Autonomous driving is a hot topic at CES, with numerous startups promoting their latest innovations. Companies like Ambarella are impressing with their tech, but for many, the dream of fully autonomous cars on the road is still just that—a dream.

However, this hasn’t deterred companies from utilizing CES as a platform to demonstrate the potential of automated vehicles in various industries. Applied EV, for example, intends to introduce autonomous solutions tailored for sectors like mining, transportation, and specialized logistics. Additionally, the rise of robo-trucking is set to make a significant impact.

A key trend at CES is the rise of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs). These vehicles prioritize software over hardware, transforming not only how cars function but also how they’re constructed. Startups are keen to demonstrate how this software-focused design could radically alter mobility.

3. Infrastructure development

While the future of mobility is electric, the viability of this vision relies on robust infrastructure. CES 2025 will be teeming with startups showcasing their EV charging solutions, aiming to bridge the gap left by the Tesla Supercharger network. The current goal is a more accessible, widespread charging infrastructure nationwide.

EVgo, a startup that recently secured a $1.25 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, is making significant strides in bolstering public EV charging infrastructure. However, with the changing political landscape, the future of EV adoption and support remains uncertain. CES offers an essential platform for these startups to present their technologies to potential investors.

4. The integration of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a hypothetical feature in vehicles—it’s the future. CES 2025 will prominently feature AI, with major manufacturers and ambitious startups showcasing their latest breakthroughs.

A key panel titled “Revolutionizing the Future of Driving: Unleashing the Power of AI” will feature executives from Honda, BMW, and Rivian. They will discuss how AI is transforming driving, from smarter in-car assistants to completely reimagined user interfaces.

We’ve already seen this with Mercedes-Benz, which utilized ChatGPT to operate a conversational virtual assistant in its cars. At CES, the focus will be on “agentic AI”—intelligent systems designed to replace traditional dashboard UI/UX with something more adaptive, predictive, and intuitive.

Additionally, Hyundai plans to reveal its futuristic holographic windshield display technology, offering a sneak peek at the future of augmented reality on the road. In essence, get ready for an AI-driven ride.

5. The rise of modularity

At CES, automakers are redefining vehicles as more than just a means of transportation. This shift was evidenced at CES 2024 with Kia’s PBV series—highly modular cars designed to adapt to a range of roles. This vision is expected to expand at CES 2025, highlighted by XPENG AEROHT’s modular flying car concept.

The challenge for this futuristic sector will be establishing necessity. While modular vehicles are undoubtedly exciting, their high cost requires practical use cases to justify investment. Kia’s strategy last year emphasized this, positioning its modular EVs as solutions for business owners, industrial applications, and gig economy workers.