The central theme at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) wasn’t the cars themselves, but the intelligence within them. Automakers and tech firms alike showcased an overwhelming focus on artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and the integration of powerful computing into vehicles. This shift signals a fundamental change in how cars are designed, marketed, and ultimately experienced.
The EV Landscape: Beyond Acceleration
While traditional metrics like horsepower and interior space once dominated car showcases, the focus has decisively shifted. AI assistants, real-time data processing, and adaptive learning capabilities are now the primary selling points.
Several manufacturers, including Sony Honda Mobility, continue to invest heavily in electric vehicles (EVs). Their AFEELA 1, refined since its 2023 debut, now starts at $89,900. Despite the high price, Sony Honda remains committed to the smart EV market, even as competitors reconsider their EV strategies. The company also previewed an SUV variant of the AFEELA 1, with production expected in 2028.
The Robocar Revolution: Tensor’s Bold Move
Tensor Auto, an “AI and RoboCar company,” embodies this trend perfectly. Their Robocar isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a sophisticated robot on wheels, capable of two-way communication and proactive decision-making. The car can anticipate traffic conditions, adapt to driver preferences over time, and even engage in natural language conversations.
Tensor plans to ramp up production in late 2026, making this futuristic concept a tangible reality sooner than many expect. While fully autonomous driving still requires significant development, the Robocar represents a leap forward in integrating AI into the driving experience.
Nvidia’s “Physical AI” and the Future of Automation
Nvidia’s emphasis on “physical AI”—systems that interact with the physical world—underpins much of this progress. Their Alpamayo reasoning model is powering Mercedes-Benz’s vision of AI-based driving, with robotaxi testing slated for 2027. This approach highlights the critical role of real-time sensor data processing and intelligent actuation in autonomous systems.
The Assistant Arms Race
Automakers are now competing on the sophistication of their in-car AI assistants. BMW is integrating an Amazon Alexa+-based system into its Neue Klasse EVs, capable of answering complex questions beyond basic navigation. Ford will launch its own intelligent assistant first on smartphones before rolling it into cars in 2027. Sony’s AFEELA 1 will feature a Microsoft Azure OpenAI-powered assistant, while Tensor’s AI Agent goes further, learning from all available sensors and entertainment systems to personalize the driving experience.
Traditional EVs Still Matter
Despite the AI hype, established automakers are still launching new EVs. Xiaomi refreshed its SU7 sedan with improved safety features and range, while Volvo teased its EX60 SUV, boasting impressive range figures. The Detroit Auto Show will likely see further reveals, but the spotlight at CES 2026 was undeniably on the intelligence driving these vehicles forward.
The message from CES 2026 is clear: the future of cars isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about how intelligently and seamlessly that journey unfolds. The integration of AI is no longer a future promise but a present reality, reshaping the automotive industry at an unprecedented pace.
