Auto tech on display at CES
Automakers use the annual Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to get creative. Sometimes the results can seem a little too creative — we don’t expect to see connected streetlights or adaptive sidewalks, as some companies have pitched in years past, anytime soon.
But CES also plays host to new technology that will be on dealer lots in the near future. Here are some of the top car tech features Edmunds’ experts saw at CES 2020. BYTON: M-BYTE SUV • The Chinese electric vehicle maker Byton revealed the production version of its upcoming M-Byte SUV in its North American debut at CES. The EV comes with four or five seats, competitive cargo space, and the ability to recharge its battery to 80 per cent capacity in just 35 minutes on a DC fastcharging station.
The star of the M-Byte is its dazzling 48-inch touchscreen display that stretches across the entire dashboard. Byton is partnering with ViacomCBS to stream its video content directly through the screen. There is also local weather forecasting from AccuWeather, trip planning with the booking service Road.Travel, voice commands and 5G capability.
• GOOGLE: IMPROVED ANDROID INTEGRATION
Google is expanding its reach into the automotive sector with two new features on display at CES. The first is a new Android-based infotainment system called Android Automotive OS. More than just Android Auto smartphone integration, Android Automotive OS replaces an automaker’s factory system, offering integrated Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store. Google displayed Android Automotive OS on the Volvo XC40 Recharge SUV, which will be first on the market to use the system.
The second is wireless Android Auto, which Google displayed with BMW at the show. Wireless Android Auto allows you to connect an Android-based phone without using a cord and USB port. In BMW vehicles, it can also send information to the instrument cluster and headup display in addition to the centre infotainment screen. This is also the first time Android Auto has been offered on BMW vehicles they previously only came with Apple CarPlay.
• HYUNDAI: HIGHDEFINITION MAPS
Hyundai is focused on highdefinition mapping. At CES, the South Korean automaker detailed the new system in its Genesis G90 luxury sedan. The navigation system, developed with the supplier HERE, takes overlaying map information and integrates it with what the vehicle’s cameras and sensors are seeing. The result is more accurate navigation, lanecentring and turning for safer journeys.
The company also revealed that its near future holds an advanced location system that provides an additional layer of safety. Called HighPrecision Positioning, or HPP, the system uses GPS signals and the cellular network to pinpoint the vehicle’s exact location on the road. Hyundai says it will enhance features such as automated emergency braking and turnby-turn navigation.
• FIAT CHRYSLER AUTOMOBILES: PLUG-IN HYBRID JEEPS
Traditionally, there isn’t much talk of off-roading at CES. But Fiat Chrysler Automobiles changed that with a plug-in hybrid version of its iconic Jeep Wrangler SUV. Jeep will also build plugin versions of its Compass and Renegade crossover SUVs.
Jeep says the plug-in hybrid Jeeps will wear a new 4XE badge and provide better fuel economy and improved offroad ability due to greater torque and instant engine response. They are the first in Jeep’s plan to offer an electrified version of every model in its lineup by 2022.