Self-driving vehicles and AI are expected to be the major focus of automotive displays at this year’s CES, as the hype over EVs takes a back seat to other tech innovations across the sector.
The details: For the past few years, automakers have used the popular Las Vegas event to showcase their electrification strategies, but the industry’s growing focus on autonomous vehicles and AI will take center stage at this year’s event.
CES, which runs from Jan. 6 to Jan. 9, will feature several auto suppliers and start-ups demonstrating their latest autonomous vehicle hardware and software.
AI innovations in automotive and mobility products and offerings will also be showcased at the event, including Hyundai presenting its AI robotics strategy themed “Partnering Human Progress,” reports Inside EVs.
What they’re saying: "This year you will see more and more focus on AI and autonomous," said C.J. Finn, U.S. automotive industry leader for PwC (via Reuters). "That connectivity on autonomous, I do think will be front and center."
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Why it matters: CES is a preview of what’s coming next to showrooms and service drives: more AI-driven safety, connectivity, autonomy, (and less splashy EV-only hype). Understanding how OEMs plan to bundle and monetize these features will be key to explaining value to customers, training techs, and navigating future subscription and data-driven revenue models.
Digging deeper: The 2026 show isn’t expected to be completely void of new-vehicle displays, with several import brands slated to showcase their cars, though it appears that the Detroit Three automakers have decided to pass on this year’s show.
Sony Honda Mobility will showcase new updates for its Afeela 1 as a pre-production model and an all-new concept model.
BMW will showcase the Neue Klasse EV platform and the new iX3, while Mercedes-Benz will make its American debut of the new GLC-Class electric SUV.
China's Geely, a sister brand to Volvo, will feature the Zeekr 009 full-electric luxury van and Zeekr 9X plug-in hybrid flagship SUV at CES 2026
Bottom line: CES is signaling a pivot from “all EV, all the time” to an AI and autonomy-first future.
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