8 Exciting Tech Innovations Unveiled by Automakers at CES 2024: VinFast Steals the Show with Bold Pickup Concept and VF 3

The Consumer Electronics Show CES 2024, held in Las Vegas, USA, concluded successfully after 4 days (9 – 12 January), with the participation of approximately 3,500 companies from 150 countries. CES 2024 presented the most advanced future technology ideas from manufacturers. This year, various car manufacturers unveiled numerous concept cars and cutting-edge technologies that can potentially be applied in the future. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlighted concept cars showcased at CES 2024.

Honda Space-Hub and Saloon EV

Honda introduced two concept cars named Space-Hub and Saloon EV at CES 2024. These cars are part of Honda’s Zero Series, which focuses on high-tech electric vehicles and is expected to debut as early as 2026. While specific details about these two cars have not been provided by Honda, the company mentioned that the new battery platform will have a higher energy density compared to the GM Ultium battery featured in the Prologue electric SUV set to launch later this year.

In terms of technology, Honda stated that the Space-Hub and Saloon EV will incorporate advanced driver-assistance features to enhance driving capabilities in urban and highway environments. Honda is also researching seat arrangements to maximize customer comfort while improving the suspension system’s capabilities.

Afeela

Honda also unveiled a brand-new fully electric coupe model called Afeela, developed in collaboration with Sony. This model incorporates various modern technologies that are making their first appearance in cars. The Afeela coupe is set to debut in 2025 with production and customer availability starting from early 2026.

VinFast Wild Pickup Concept and VF 3

Vietnamese electric car manufacturer VinFast surprised attendees at CES 2024 by showcasing the Wild Pickup Concept, a mid-size electric pickup truck with dimensions similar to a Ford Ranger. This pickup model stands out with its clever design, extending the cargo bed length from 1.5m to 2.4m to enhance cargo capacity.

The VF 3 is a compact electric car with a square shape reminiscent of the Suzuki Jimny. The second row of seats can be folded flat, providing a spacious cargo space of approximately 1.85m2 – larger than most sedan trunks. The VinFast VF 3 is suitable for urban travel, offering a nearly 300km range on a full charge. Its compact size and small battery make it easy to charge using household electricity.

BMW car with integrated handheld game console

BMW’s new OS 9 operating system includes a wireless Bluetooth gamepad that allows the driver and passengers to play games while parked and charging. BMW also announced a partnership with Tivo to enable content streaming based on the car’s estimated charging time.

Furthermore, BMW highlights its collaboration with Meta regarding the use of XR (mixed reality) glasses. The carmaker claims that wearing XR glasses can provide more enhanced information and safety features compared to a traditional screen system. However, BMW notes that using smart glasses while the car is in motion may cause some individuals to experience motion sickness.

ChatGPT integrated into Volkswagen cars

Volkswagen is incorporating artificial intelligence into its cars by integrating the ChatGPT language chatbot. The voice assistant, called Ida, will be officially launched in the second half of 2024 on the ID.7 and ID.4 car models.

With ChatGPT installed, the voice assistant in Volkswagen cars will swiftly recognize and respond to various driver requests, ranging from adjusting the car’s interior temperature to providing directions to the nearest restaurant.

VW guarantees that the voice assistant will not have access to the car’s data, and the command, question, and answer contents will be immediately deleted to ensure the highest level of information security for customers.

Entertainment features on Mercedes-Benz’s “Hyperscreen”

Mercedes-Benz is one of the first automotive brands to integrate a curved LCD screen across its entire control panel, known as the “Hyperscreen.” The company now announces partnerships with Amazon, Audible, and other services to provide content for the screen and other displays. The sound quality will be immersive, delivered through Dolby Atmos and optional Burmester 4D or 3D surround sound systems.

In addition, customers will have the ability to play games in their Mercedes cars through a partnership with a company called Antstream Arcade. This collaboration allows access to classic games from Nintendo, Sega, Atari, as well as the opportunity to watch movies and TV shows from Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Kia’s versatile electric trucks

Kia unveiled a series of new versatile truck models at CES 2024, capable of transforming into five different versions. The first model to be available for purchase will be the Kia PV5. The PV5 can be transformed into a passenger vehicle, cargo vehicle, or camper, depending on the user’s needs. The most remarkable feature of these models is the ability to customize the rear compartment. The flexible frame only fixes the driver’s seat position, while the rest of the rear area can be adjusted through mechanical joints and some electronic fixed points.

S-A2 – Hyundai’s new flying car

Supernal, a subsidiary of Hyundai, introduced their latest generation flying car, the S-A2 eVTOL. This eVTOL vehicle can accommodate four people simultaneously, with a maximum flying speed of 290 km/h and a maximum range of 65 km on a full charge. Notably, the battery of this flying car has the ability to fast charge in just 5-7 minutes. The manufacturer states that the S-A2 is designed for urban mobility and is significantly quieter compared to conventional fuel-powered helicopters.

Thai Son (Tuoitrethudo)

References: Inverse