CES 2022: The Best and Weirdest Future Car Tech

The Evolving Role of the Modern Vehicle: CES 2022 Insights

TechCrunch’s coverage of CES 2022 has concluded, despite being experienced virtually. A significant trend within the automotive sector became strikingly apparent: the contemporary automobile transcends simple transportation.

The conventional notion of a vehicle as merely a means of conveyance – moving from one location to another – is rapidly becoming outdated. Automakers and technology firms now envision cars as something far more substantial.

Vehicles as 'Third Spaces'

The modern car is increasingly considered a 'third space,' a versatile environment for activities like working, relaxing, or entertainment. It functions as an integrated device, seamlessly connecting with other technologies central to daily life.

Furthermore, vehicles are evolving into proactive assistants. They leverage data collection and observation to anticipate driver and passenger requirements, offering a personalized experience.

Key Themes at CES 2022

This year’s event highlighted three primary areas of innovation. These included in-vehicle services and experiences designed for occupants, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving capabilities, and the substantial computational resources required to support these advancements.

The focus was on alleviating the burdens of driving, allowing occupants to fully engage in other activities. This is made possible by increasingly sophisticated technology.

Beyond the Core Innovations

Alongside these central themes, other notable vehicle technologies were showcased. BMW’s innovative color-changing car captured significant attention, and even NFTs found a place within the automotive landscape.

Here’s a summary of the in-vehicle technologies that particularly resonated with our team during CES 2022.

• The shift towards vehicles as multi-functional spaces.
• The growing importance of ADAS and automated driving.
• The demand for increased computing power within automobiles.

The Rise of Computing Power in Automotive Technology

Significant discussion surrounded the development of digital cockpits, aiming to transform vehicle interiors into hubs for digital content, entertainment, and various services. The concept of a “co-pilot” was frequently mentioned, encompassing features from voice assistants to sophisticated driver-assistance systems capable of controlling vehicle functions.

Underlying these advancements is a substantial demand for processing capabilities, which was prominently showcased at CES 2022 as the automotive chip industry intensified its competition.

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis Platform

At CES 2022, Qualcomm reinforced its dedication to automotive in-vehicle technology by securing new partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The Snapdragon Digital Chassis presents automakers with a comprehensive suite of cloud-connected platforms, comprising systems on a chip (SoC) and software that can be implemented individually or as a complete package.

This chassis incorporates the Snapdragon Ride Platform for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving, the Auto Connectivity Platform for LTE, 5G connectivity, cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and precise positioning, alongside an upgraded Snapdragon Cockpit for digital cockpit and infotainment functionalities.

Volvo and Honda revealed intentions to integrate the digital cockpit into their forthcoming electric vehicles, while Renault, already committed to utilizing the cockpit in future models, broadened its collaboration to encompass the entire chassis offering. Furthermore, General Motors will leverage Snapdragon to power its next-generation ADAS systems.

Nvidia’s Drive Orin System on a Chip

While Qualcomm’s SoC is powering Volvo’s infotainment systems, the company’s new automated driving (AD) features will rely on Nvidia’s technology. TuSimple, a startup focused on autonomous trucking, also announced at CES 2022 its adoption of the Drive Orin SoC to enhance and scale its self-driving capabilities.

Nvidia’s chip functions as a central computer for intelligent vehicles, specifically engineered for autonomous applications. It delivers a processing capacity of 254 trillion operations per second, providing the necessary computational power for self-driving functions.

JiDU Auto, the electric vehicle arm of Baidu, also declared its intention to utilize the Nvidia Drive Orin SoC. This next-generation vehicle, boasting Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, is slated to debut at the Beijing Auto Show in April, with mass production and deliveries expected by 2023.

Additional companies incorporating Drive Orin include Polestar, IM Motors, Li Auto, NIO, R Auto, and Xpeng.

Intel and Mobileye’s Advancements

Intel’s subsidiary, Mobileye, unveiled plans to introduce a new supercomputer designed to equip passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs with autonomous driving capabilities.

At CES 2022, the company presented the EyeQ Ultra system on a chip, specifically developed for autonomous driving. The first silicon for the EyeQ Ultra SoC, capable of 176 trillion operations per second (TOPS), is anticipated by the end of 2023, with full automotive-grade production commencing in 2025.

Mobileye also introduced its next-generation EyeQ SoC for advanced driver-assistance systems, comprising the EyeQ6L and EyeQ6H.

The Expanding Realm of Connected Car Technology

The convergence of the internet and substantial processing capabilities within vehicles is ushering in an era of sophisticated technology. This integration is reshaping the automotive experience, blurring the lines between our digital and physical lives.

Imagine a vehicle capable of automatically ordering a pizza as you depart work, ensuring it arrives fresh upon reaching your destination. Or, simply requesting information regarding your battery’s charge and estimated range through voice command. Even enjoying the latest entertainment while comfortably seated in your car is now a reality.

The technological advancements showcased at CES underscored the evolving role of the car as a seamlessly connected device, designed to enhance convenience, streamline daily routines, and provide immersive entertainment.

Google’s Automotive Innovations

With Android Auto already powering many in-vehicle infotainment systems, Google has significantly expanded its automotive offerings. Accessing smartphone applications within the car is becoming increasingly intuitive.

A collaboration between Volvo and Google introduces integration with the Google Home ecosystem. This allows Volvo owners to control vehicle functions – such as starting, pre-conditioning, and retrieving battery information – via Google Assistant-enabled devices. Furthermore, YouTube app downloads will be enabled through the combined efforts of Google and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Cockpit.

Google has also enhanced its digital car key feature for BMW vehicles. Select Pixel and Galaxy phone users can now lock, unlock, and start their cars automatically as they approach. The ability to securely share digital keys with others has also been added.

Amazon’s Expanding Automotive Footprint

Amazon has been steadily increasing its presence in the automotive sector, primarily through its Alexa virtual assistant. This year, Alexa’s capabilities are being combined with Amazon’s Fire TV streaming platform, extending its reach into more vehicles.

Following Stellantis’s integration of Fire TV last year, Jeep, Chrysler, BMW, and Ford vehicles are receiving entertainment system upgrades. Fire TV for cars offers more than just streaming; it seamlessly integrates with Alexa.

Drivers and passengers can now use voice commands to initiate playback of content, such as “Olaf Presents,” and even view Ring doorbell footage directly on the Fire TV screen. Instantly!

Stellantis and Amazon are deepening their partnership. A comprehensive collaboration announced at CES 2022 will impact nearly all facets of Stellantis’s operations. Amazon’s technology will be leveraged for vehicle development, connected in-vehicle experiences, and the training of automotive software engineers.

As part of this multi-year agreement, Stellantis has designated Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider for vehicle platforms. Moreover, Stellantis is collaborating with AWS to establish a curriculum focused on software, data, and cloud technologies for its employees.

Cerence: Proactive In-Car Assistance

Cerence introduced its Cerence Co-Pilot, an intelligent in-car assistant that learns continuously to anticipate driver needs. This system proactively initiates actions based on its understanding of the vehicle’s environment and user preferences.

The Co-Pilot utilizes data from the car’s sensors, analyzing voice, gaze, gestures, and touch to personalize the driving experience. It can control smart home devices, authorize in-car payments, and even schedule vehicle maintenance appointments.

Cerence has partnered with Vietnamese automaker Vinfast to integrate this technology into their vehicles. Demonstrations of the technology also showcased compatibility with brands like Volvo, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz.

Blackberry and Pateo: Intelligent Vehicle Data

Blackberry announced a partnership with Pateo, a Chinese provider of internet-of-vehicles services, to integrate Blackberry Ivy – co-developed with Amazon Web Services – into Pateo’s digital cockpit solution. A pilot program with an unnamed Chinese automaker will test the cockpit on its electric vehicle models.

Details regarding the cockpit’s appearance remain limited, but it is expected to include features such as intelligent voice control, entertainment options, vehicle health monitoring, secure payment systems, and cloud connectivity. The system will also incorporate Electra Vehicles’s EVE-Ai 360 Adaptive Controls for enhanced battery management and range prediction.

ADAS and Autonomous Driving Developments

Recent industry trends indicate a shift in focus from fully autonomous vehicles to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The expectation is that restricted automated driving features will soon be integrated into mainstream passenger vehicles.

Progress in vehicle sensors, computing power, and software development are enabling automakers to automate specific driving tasks, such as parking maneuvers and highway driving.

General Motors’ Ultra Cruise System

GM’s innovative Ultra Cruise ADAS system will utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon System-on-a-Chip (SoC) for enhanced performance. The system was initially introduced in 2021, with further details regarding its capabilities and computing architecture revealed recently.

This represents an advancement over GM’s Super Cruise ADAS, launched in 2017, and is projected to manage 95% of all driving scenarios encountered.

Scheduled for release with the all-electric Cadillac Celestiq in 2023, Ultra Cruise will process data from cameras, radar, and lidar sensors, employing GM’s software to make driving decisions.

Volvo’s Ride Pilot

Volvo announced a collaboration with lidar specialist Luminar and AD software firm Zenseact to introduce Ride Pilot. This feature will be offered as a subscription add-on for an upcoming electric SUV.

Ride Pilot is classified as an “unsupervised” ADAS feature, allowing for fully autonomous operation on designated highways, enabling drivers to disengage completely with driving tasks.

JiDU’s Autonomous Capabilities

JiDU, the electric vehicle startup backed by Chinese technology company Baidu, announced its first production model will be powered by Nvidia’s Drive Orin SoC. Deliveries of this vehicle are anticipated to begin in 2023.

The company intends to incorporate Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, with a full reveal planned for the Beijing Auto Show in April. JiDU, established just a year ago, has already demonstrated intelligent assisted driving in both urban and highway environments using its SIMUCar.

Cadillac’s InnerSpace Concept

Cadillac showcased its vision for the interior of future autonomous vehicles with the InnerSpace concept. The vehicle’s exterior presents a futuristic, two-seater design.

The interior features a luxurious and reclining loveseat instead of traditional driver and passenger seats, complete with an integrated ottoman and storage for comfort items. A large, curved display is positioned directly in front of the occupants, and the vehicle lacks conventional steering wheels or pedals.

Indy Autonomous Challenge

Teams from around the globe participated in an autonomous racing demonstration at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway last October.

The Autonomous Challenge @ CES saw these teams reconvene at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on January 7. University teams developed the software controlling the Dallara AV-21 autonomous racecar.

The organization released several videos documenting the event, including footage captured during nighttime racing.

Gentex’s Driver Monitoring System

Gentex, a supplier to the automotive and aerospace industries, highlighted advancements resulting from its 2021 acquisitions of Guardian Optical Technologies and Vaposens.

Their ultra-sensitive driver monitoring system, designed to enhance ADAS functionality, particularly captured attention. Guardian Optical Technologies’ infrared-sensitive camera combines machine vision, depth perception, and micro-vibration detection to monitor the vehicle cabin and occupants’ behavior.

Innovations in Automotive Technology: NFTs, Color-Changing Cars, and More

Vinfast's Pioneering Approach

Image Credits: Vinfast

During this year’s CES, Vinfast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, not only showcased three new EV models but also launched its early-bird reservation platform. Those who preorder first will be issued a “VinFirst” certificate, recorded as a non-fungible token (NFT) on a blockchain, ensuring a transparent and verifiable record of order placement.

The concept of a “digital twin” gained prominence within the automotive industry at CES 2022, with both Cerence and Vinfast making related announcements. Essentially, Cerence provides cloud-based software enabling Vinfast to create a comprehensive virtual replica of its vehicles, encompassing software, mechanical components, electrical systems, and physical characteristics, alongside driver and environmental data.

Indi EV and the Socially Connected Car

Indi EV, an EV startup based in California, presented a prototype of its Indi One at CES, positioning it as “the world’s first social media-oriented car.” This designation indicates a vehicle equipped with an integrated computer for gaming, a full Windows workstation capable of handling video conferencing, and the ability to record and share content directly to social media platforms.

Furthermore, the Indi One is designed to support a mobile blockchain network, with each vehicle functioning as a node. The practical implications of this feature remain somewhat unclear, but Indi EV is pursuing this innovative direction. Preorders are scheduled to begin by the end of the first quarter, with an anticipated price point of approximately $45,000.

BMW's Color-Shifting iX Flow

BMW unveiled its groundbreaking color-changing car, the BMW iX Flow, at CES. Currently, the vehicle’s exterior can transition between black and white using e-paper technology, with plans to expand the color palette in the future, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicle’s appearance based on their preferences.

Image Credits: BMW

NextbaseNextbase, a leading dash cam manufacturer, introduced its iQ smart and connected dash cam. This device provides drivers with similar safety and security features found in home monitoring systems, including real-time alerts and remote access to incident footage via a dedicated mobile application.

Mercedes-Benz's Vision EQXX

Mercedes-Benz showcased the Vision EQXX, a concept vehicle designed to preview the future of its electric vehicle lineup. This striking sport EV prioritizes not only aerodynamic efficiency and a sleek aesthetic but also maximizes power, efficiency, and driving range within a compact and sporty design.

Mercedes-Benz reveals the VISION EQXX interior. Image Credits: Mercedes-Benz

A notable technological feature of the EQXX is its expansive, one-piece 47.5-inch LED display boasting 8K resolution. Mercedes states that the infotainment system will deliver responsive, real-time graphics across the entire width of the vehicle’s dashboard.

The automaker collaborated with NAVIS Automotive Systems to develop a 3D navigation system, allowing users to interactively zoom and navigate the massive screen. Like recent Mercedes-Benz models, the EQXX also incorporates an advanced voice assistant and adaptive software that learns driver behavior over time.

The Pursuit of Tangible Value in the Lidar Industry

The lidar sector witnessed a notable event when Luminar directly compared its technology to Tesla’s ADAS, a demonstration that garnered attention, albeit with controversial methods. Its integration into vehicles from Volvo and Mobileye represents a significant achievement.

However, the system remains costly and intricate, demanding substantial investment with returns that, while potentially considerable, are not yet guaranteed.

Vehicle manufacturers face the challenge of developing lidar solutions that deliver demonstrable benefits at an accessible price point. The anticipated reductions in cost have not materialized to the extent desired, and ambiguity persists regarding the division of responsibilities within a complete perception system.

Blickfeld is striving to encompass a broader range of functionalities, including on-device motion detection and object categorization. This approach aims to simplify integration or potentially create overlap with existing, sophisticated in-vehicle computer vision systems.

Focus on Free Space Mapping

Arbe is concentrating its efforts on “free space mapping,” a technique that prioritizes drivable areas regardless of the specific objects present. Determining the safety of a driving surface—whether obstructed by foliage or wildlife—is the core function.

A dedicated sensor capable of rapidly identifying safe driving zones could prove to be a valuable asset, contributing to the collective intelligence of autonomous vehicle networks.

Evolution of Lidar Technology

Innoviz is refining the conventional spinning lidar design, which has demonstrated its effectiveness in numerous applications. An improved, more affordable iteration could achieve success, building upon the groundwork laid by industry pioneer Velodyne.

Voyant Photonics, conversely, is strategically shifting its focus away from the automotive market, opting to concentrate on producing compact, low-cost lidar units for robotics and industrial uses. These sectors present a less stringent regulatory environment and reduced liability concerns.

Uncertainties Remain

The long-term viability of lidar in autonomous vehicles and related technologies is assured, but its ultimate form and price point remain uncertain. This ambiguity understandably generates some apprehension among industry stakeholders.

The future of lidar hinges on demonstrating clear, cost-effective value to manufacturers and end-users alike.