Cars outshine gadgets at CES
The smartphones and other small machines that used to dominate the annual CES gadget show have been overshadowed in recent years by bigger mobile devices: namely, automobiles.
Major automakers like Toyota, Kia, Hyundai and Ford have a noticeable presence at this week’s tech showcase in Las Vegas, though most save more practical announcements about new cars, trucks and SUVs for the upcoming Detroit auto show.
Toyota says it’s developing self-driving mini-buses that can serve as bite-sized stores.
These vehicles will drive themselves to places where potential buyers can try on clothes or shoes or pick through flea market items. They can also give employees fully functional office space on their commute.
The project, unveiled at the CES gadget show Monday, is still in the conceptual stage. A concept vehicle is still being developed and will be tested in the 2020s. A version is also expected to make an appearance at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.
The Japanese automaker is partnering with Amazon, Uber, Pizza Hut, Mazda and Chinese ride-hailing firm Didi on what it is calling the e-Palette Alliance.
Toyota President Akio Toyoda told CES conference attendees: “In the future, the store will come to you.”
CES has been a chance for car- makers and suppliers of automotive parts and software to display their wilder and far-out ideas.
A Chinese company, Byton, has unveiled an attention-grabbing concept electric SUV with futuristic features. Nvidia an- nounced it’s teaming up to help Uber develop self-driving taxis. Lyft is using its own self-driving fleet to transport conference attendees. Scooters and threewheeled street cars will also be on display. /