The Future of Cars: Highlights from CES 2025
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas once again served as a dynamic platform for the latest innovations in automotive technology. This year’s event was packed with carmakers, suppliers, and aftermarket manufacturers, all eager to display the future of driving. U.S. News & World Report spent the week at the show, pinpointing some of the most exciting advancements.
CES 2025 showcased cutting-edge products ranging from groundbreaking electric vehicle models to sophisticated software solutions. With over 141,000 attendees, the show highlighted the industry’s forward momentum.
This article highlights some of the most noteworthy technologies and vehicles presented at the show.
BMW’s Panoramic iDrive
BMW introduced its next-generation iDrive infotainment interface, featuring a dash-spanning screen, an optional 3D head-up display, and a newly designed steering wheel, all powered by the BMW Operating System X. The evolution of iDrive, known for its initial complexity, has led to the new system that promises enhanced ease of use and power. Expected to appear in all new BMW models starting at the end of 2025.
Honda’s Electric 0 Series
Honda unveiled its 0 Series electric vehicle concepts. The 0 Saloon and 0 SUV, slated for production in 2026, showcase a futuristic design direction. The 0 Saloon offers a low, sleek profile, while the 0 SUV presents a truncated rear design with a distinctive LED band and a sleek rear window.
Details regarding the powertrain, pricing, and range of these vehicles remain undisclosed.
Toyota’s Foray into Rockets
Toyota announced an investment in Interstellar Technologies, a Japanese startup specializing in rocket construction. The company will invest approximately $44 million, providing manufacturing expertise to enhance the mass production of rockets. This new venture represents an expansion of Toyota’s vision for the future of mobility, suggesting a move beyond terrestrial vehicles.
Toyota’s Woven City
Toyota also revealed that the initial phase of its Woven City project is complete, with the first residents set to arrive. The Woven City is a prototype community designed for testing new mobility solutions and cutting-edge technologies. This project will host researchers and residents to create a unique feedback loop, all located near Mount Fuji in Japan.
Pebble Flow Trailer
The Pebble Flow trailer, demonstrated at the CES, offers an innovative approach to travel trailers with features such as a powerful battery, solar charging, and remote-controlled maneuverability. This trailer can boost a towing vehicle’s power and provide a seven-day power supply for campsites. Prices range from $109,500 to $175,000, with initial deliveries on the horizon.
Elaphe Sonic.1 In-Wheel Motors
Slovenian company Elaphe showcased its innovative in-wheel electric motors, designed to be installed within the wheel itself. These motors can deliver up to 272 horsepower per front wheel and enable more precise vehicle control. Lighter and more compact than conventional motors, this technology promises improved vehicle response, especially in challenging driving conditions.
Italdesign Quintessenza Concept
The Quintessenza, a striking concept from Italdesign, features a unique design with a blend of supercar and pickup truck elements. Key features include the rotating rear seats, butterfly doors, and four Elaphe in-wheel motors. With its simple yet elegant interior and yoke-style steering, the Quintessenza shows a glimpse into the innovative future of car design.
Aptera’s Solar Electric Vehicle
The Aptera electric car, which can get up to 40 miles of range per day via its solar panels, offers an intriguing glimpse into the potential of solar power in EVs. The lightweight, three-wheel design, and a projected starting price of $40,000, make it a notable offering, with significant pre-orders already placed.
Xpeng AeroHT Flying Car
The Xpeng AeroHT, a two-seat flying car, captured attention for its potential to reshape personal transportation. This electric copter, with a claimed ease of use, represents a step toward the long-awaited dream of flying cars, and a possible delivery timeline of 2026.
Vueroid S1 4K Infinite Dashcam
The Vueroid S1 Infinite dashcam stood out with its 4K video recording capabilities. Equipped with AI-powered features to enhance license plate legibility and blur faces, the dashcam includes a parking surveillance mode to protect a vehicle. The system is expected for sale in the second quarter of 2025.
TUC Technologies Modular Dashboard
TUC Technology presented a system of modular connectors and software designed to streamline vehicle system upgrades. This allows for easy adjustments to infotainment screens, charging pads, and other components. The company envisions applications in both automotive and aerospace industries.
Afeela 1 from Sony and Honda
The Afeela 1, a result of the joint venture by Sony and Honda, will begin production in 2026, with an emphasis on entertainment and gaming alongside driving performance. The car includes semi-autonomous driving features, 40 sensors, and all-wheel drive with an estimated range of 300 miles and a price tag from $89,900 to $102,900.
Stryten Energy Mobile Microgrid
Stryten Energy showcased a mobile microgrid built into a Jeep, demonstrating its ability to deliver significant amounts of power to disaster zones. The system uses a hybrid diesel engine and a large-capacity battery system, and a company software to efficiently distribute electricity.
Mobileye VW ID. Buzz
Mobileye’s autonomous driving technology was featured in a VW ID. Buzz. The vehicle is fitted with various sensors, and continues its partnership with the Volkswagen Group for driver-assistance and safety systems.
RheoLight Technology
RheoLight Crystal Glass Pigments, a paint additive is being explored for its ability to improve visibility for car sensors and the human eye. These pigments help to improve color detection at night, enhancing safety systems such as automatic emergency braking.
Conclusion
CES 2025 offered a comprehensive view of automotive technology, revealing many advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and enhanced safety systems. While some technologies are currently available, others are several years away from becoming mainstream features of cars. The show provided a glimpse into the future of automobiles and the trends shaping the automotive industry.
