At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, The roar of engines at CES 2024 was the electrifying hum of innovation. This year, the spotlight was firmly shone on electric vehicles (EVs), showcasing a dazzling array of sleek designs, cutting-edge tech, and the potential of all cars in the future. Prepare to be amazed by aerodynamic curves, versatile functionality, and enough onboard tech to make your Tesla jealous. So, grab your virtual helmet (or, just scroll down), and let’s take a spin through the most electrifying EVs of CES 2024!
The Future of Honda
At this year’s CES, Honda gave the world a peak at two new concept EVs- a sedan known as “The Saloon”, and a minivan-type family hauler called “The Space-Hub”. Unfortunately, Honda officials didn’t exactly produce too many details on the specifications of both vehicles (as the case for any concept car from most automakers). But what we do know, is that the aerodynamic styling of the Saloon suggests that it will most likely fall into the same lane as the Tesla Model S. The Space Hub on the other hand, is being looked at as an attempt to re-imagine the functionality and styling of a traditional mini-van with a more modernized appeal that could potentially rival some of thee most luxuriously styled Mercedes sprinter-vans. I wouldn’t be surprised if Honda tries to add in Samsung’s latest roll-able OLED screen technology for passenger usage.
Honda is also working to pair their future line up with advanced-driver assistant features like automated driving capabilities as well as, refining their hardware to fast charge their EVs to at least an 80% charge in about fifteen-minutes.
Sony Enters the Field
In a collaboration effort with auto-giant Honda, the Sony Corporation is looking into penetrating the EV market with the Afeela electric car which, is turning out to be a ‘Playstation on wheels’. By that I mean, the interior graphics panels that will be make up the central control units for the car, will be using the same graphics modules as a PS5 gaming console. With this technology all occupants within the car will be able to access media from Sony’s TV, movie, and gaming catalogs.
Kia Expands their EV line-up
By now, it’s no secret that Korean car maker Kia, has aided in boosting the production of EVs worldwide with their Niro, EV6, and newly released EV9 models. At CES 2024, they debuted their latest invention, the “Platform Beyond Vehicle” (PBV) which will be produced in 5 variants: Basic, Van, Highroof, Robotaxi, and the Chassis Cab. The idea around the PBV or PV5, was to produce a versatile platform designed for multi-purposes from ride-hailing to cargo delivery. The PV5-Basic, includes wide double doors and three rows if seating. The PV5-Van model focuses on cargo transport. The PV5-Highroof model takes the Basic model up a notch with a higher roof line for more headroom and a cabin that can convert into a mobile office with desk space and steering wheel functioning at a lamp when folded upwards while parked. The PV5-Robotaxi is self explanatory as it will be a joint venture between KIA, Hyundai, and auto-tech supplier Aptiv for an autonomous riding experience. Finally, The Chassis Cab variant will allow customers to construct the PV5 for a more customizable touch for specialized usage.
As if 5 sub-models wasn’t enough, KIA will also release two more van-type vehicles such as the PV7 (an XL version of the PV5) and the PV1, which shrinks the PV5 down to a smaller more agile automotive. A dedicated factory for the PBV is being constructed in South Korea and is slated to start production in 2025 with a goal of producing 150,000 units of the PBV range annually.
Introducing, VinFast
Another new entrant in the EV field is Vietnamese EV company VinFast. Known for their production of electric scooters, VinFast have now set their sights on pick-up trucks with the unveiling of a mid-sized electric truck concept called the “VF Wild”. It’s expected to have a dual-motor/all wheel drive platform and is said to include a range of at least 250 miles fully charged (those specs could change once in production). A unique feature of the pick-up is said to include an expandable truck bed to increase the cargo-hauling capacity.
Stay tuned to the blog all week as I revisit some of the latest eco-friendly products that will be coming to a store near you in the near future.