EV and Charging Tech in the Fast Lane: A Sneak Peek at CES 2025

Over the past decade, the automotive industry has rapidly made its mark at CES, with electric car tech taking center stage. As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to rise in popularity, CES 2025 promises to be a showcase of futuristic electric cars and innovative transportation concepts, with automakers and tech giants unveiling the latest advancements in vehicle technology. CES 2025 will be held January 7-10, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.

Top automakers and EV charging leaders are gearing up for another exciting year at CES, unveiling everything from infotainment-system updates to brand-new EVs. Hyundai will present a groundbreaking innovation: the world’s first full-windshield holographic display. This high-tech feature spans from the driver’s seat to the front passenger seat, offering an immersive experience that will likely redefine how we view and interact with vehicle displays. BMW, on the other hand, will debut its Panoramic iDrive display, pushing the boundaries of how vehicle infotainment systems can be integrated into the driving experience.

Two Honda 0 Series Prototype Models to Premiere at CES 2025

Honda has teased the reveal of two sleek prototype 0 Series electric vehicles, which promise to be a showstopper at the event. The company is planning to introduce these to the global market starting in 2026.

At CES 2024, Honda unveiled the Honda 0 Series, highlighting its “Thin, Light and Wise” development philosophy. This approach focuses on creating vehicles that are not only lightweight and efficient but also packed with cutting-edge technologies. At CES 2025, Honda will hold a press conference on January 7 to delve deeper into the “Wise” aspect of the Honda 0 Series, particularly emphasizing the innovative value brought by its original vehicle operating system (OS) and automated driving technologies.

During the press event, Honda will introduce how these advanced features will enhance the driving experience, positioning the 0 Series as a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV). This transformation is supported by a powerful System on Chip (SoC), which enables the integration of software and hardware to deliver a more connected and intelligent vehicle experience.

In addition to these technological innovations, Honda will also reveal a new energy service, set to launch alongside the Honda 0 Series models. This initiative is part of Honda’s broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, further reinforcing its dedication to sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in the automotive sector.

Sony Honda Mobility to Reveal New AFEELA EV at CES 2025

But it’s not just traditional automakers leading the charge—tech companies are also setting their sights on the automotive industry. Sony, known for its cutting-edge consumer electronics, will showcase the Sony-Honda Afeela, an electric car featuring built-in PlayStation 5 functionality, merging the worlds of gaming and transportation.

First unveiled as a prototype sedan at CES 2023, AFEELA represents a groundbreaking collaboration between Sony and Honda. The vision behind AFEELA merges Sony’s expertise in entertainment and consumer technology with Honda’s automotive legacy, offering a glimpse into the future of interactive and intelligent vehicles. At CES 2024, the prototype was further refined, showcasing AI-driven features and innovative technologies that could revolutionize how we interact with our cars. AFEELA hints at a future where vehicles are not just modes of transportation but become integral parts of our digital lives, providing entertainment, connectivity, and enhanced functionality.

Set to launch in 2026, AFEELA is positioning itself as a bold entry into the EV market, with the potential to redefine Honda’s place in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape. The AFEELA sedan is expected to feature a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering at least 400 horsepower. These specifications suggest that performance will be a major focus, but Honda has yet to disclose the car’s targeted electric range. The company has confirmed that the AFEELA will support the North American Charging Standard (NACS).

In addition, AFEELA will come equipped with 150 kW DC fast charging capabilities, which should be sufficient for today’s EV standards but may need updates to stay competitive as the market continues to advance. Pricing for the AFEELA has not yet been officially revealed, but it is expected to start around $50,000—placing it in the mid-range of the EV market, targeting tech-savvy consumers who value innovation and performance.

With deliveries expected to begin in 2026, AFEELA is shaping up to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle industry, merging the worlds of entertainment, advanced technology, and sustainable performance in a sleek, futuristic sedan. It’s a glimpse into what the future holds for Honda and the broader automotive market as they continue to innovate and evolve in the electric age.

Autel to Announce New EV Charging Innovations at CES 2025

Autel Energy, a leading provider of EV (electric vehicle) charging solutions and services, is set to give attendees an exciting sneak-peek at its latest offerings, at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this January. The company will showcase its latest, innovative EV charging technology at Booth 4474, West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center, January 7-10, 2025 at CES. Don’t miss it!

EVinfo.net recently had the fantastic opportunity to report on Autel. We took a deep dive into the ground-breaking company’s manufacturing process, which guarantees the highest quality EV charging products through extensive testing. We also examined why Autel’s dual OCPP connections improve reliability, making the company’s EV chargers superior to competitors.

ZEEKR to Display ‘Heavyweight’ EVs at CES 2025

ZEEKR, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) automaker, will be showcasing its innovative models at CES 2025, marking a significant presence at the event. The company has confirmed it will display three of its most popular vehicles: the 001 FR, 009 Grand, and MIX EVs. This makes ZEEKR the only Chinese EV manufacturer to confirm its participation at CES 2025, which will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center. With these models, ZEEKR is set to highlight its cutting-edge design, performance, and technology in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, offering a glimpse into the future of mobility.

Zeekr is a premium electric vehicle (EV) brand that was launched in 2021 as part of the Chinese automotive giant Geely Group. Geely, which also owns brands like Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, established Zeekr with the goal of producing high-end, performance-oriented electric cars. The brand aims to provide an innovative driving experience, combining cutting-edge technology and luxury features to compete with high-end EV makers such as Lucid, which recently took the title of most innovative EV tech in America, surpassing Tesla.

Zeekr’s first model, the Zeekr 001, is a sleek electric sedan designed with futuristic aesthetics and impressive performance capabilities. This vehicle offers a long electric range, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a high-tech infotainment setup, making it a strong contender in the premium EV market. The brand later introduced the Zeekr 009, a luxury electric MPV designed for families seeking a spacious and comfortable electric vehicle. Both models showcase the brand’s focus on technological innovation, performance, and eco-friendly driving solutions.

The vehicles are built on sustainable platforms developed by Geely, ensuring that they are not only environmentally friendly but also equipped with the latest in electric vehicle technology. This includes smart features such as large touchscreens, voice commands, and autonomous driving capabilities. Zeekr cars are also designed for fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge their batteries and travel long distances. For example, the Zeekr 001 can achieve a range of over 700 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the battery configuration.

Zeekr targets tech-savvy and premium customers, with a strong focus on the Chinese market. However, the brand has international expansion in mind, with plans to introduce its vehicles to markets in Europe and potentially the United States in the coming years. Zeekr’s ability to combine luxury with advanced technology positions it as a strong competitor in the global electric vehicle market.

The brand is also committed to sustainability, aligning with Geely’s overall vision to lead in the transition to electric mobility. Zeekr’s future looks promising as it continues to innovate and expand, offering electric vehicles that cater to the growing demand for high-performance, eco-conscious cars.

Important for America to Realize Chinese EV and Automotive Dominance

Zeekr’s display booth at CES 2025 is a great opportunity for Americans to see firsthand how China has dominated the global EV industry, and along with that, the global automotive industry. Far too many Americans, such as those supporting the incoming administration’s cut of the federal EV tax credit, are unaware that cutting the credit will make it more difficult for America to compete in the global automotive sector. EVinfo.net opposes cutting the credit, and we hope you join us in this important fight to save America’s auto jobs and economy.

Robotaxi Leader Waymo

The autonomous future of mobility will also be a focal point at CES 2025, with autonomous vehicles (AVs). Waymo, the leader in autonomous driving, will outline its vision for the future of self-driving cars in an exclusive keynote session, offering a glimpse into what the future of urban transportation might look like.

Waymo ​Co-CEO ​Tekedra N. Mawakana Joins CES 2025 Keynote Roster

The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) announced that Tekedra N. Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, will keynote the CES 2025 Leaders in Technology (LIT) Dinner on Wednesday, January 8.

At CES 2025, the LIT program will feature distinguished government guests from around the world who will explore cutting-edge consumer technology and engage in policy discussions at the Innovation Policy Summit (IPS). The IPS conference will cover critical topics such as artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, trade and tariffs, and cybersecurity, providing a platform for global leaders to exchange ideas on the future of tech policy.

“Our mission at Waymo is to be the world’s most trusted driver and I’m excited to share with those at CES how we’re transforming mobility to be safer, more sustainable, and more accessible,” said Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo. “We’re proud to serve riders in San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Austin with our fully autonomous ride-hail service, and I look forward to discussing our safety-guided path as we continue to grow into the new year.”

One of the highlights of the event will be an interview with Mawakana, a key figure at Waymo, conducted by Ed Ludlow, co-host of Bloomberg Technology. Ludlow, who has been with Bloomberg since 2018, is known for his comprehensive coverage of technology and innovation, spanning areas such as the automotive industry and consumer tech. During the interview, Ludlow will delve into Waymo’s contributions to sustainable transportation, roadway safety, and the evolving future of mobility, offering valuable insights into how autonomous vehicles are reshaping the transportation landscape.

“We are thrilled that Waymo chose CES to keynote and present their vision of the future,” said CTA CEO Gary Shapiro. “Autonomous vehicles have immense potential — from saving thousands of lives annually to introducing new travel options for seniors and people with disabilities. America’s leadership of this technology depends on a federal framework to bring more autonomous vehicles to our roads. Pioneering U.S. companies like Waymo are driving this innovation forward.”

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. (Google’s parent company), is a leader in autonomous driving technology. The company was founded in 2009 as part of the Google Self-Driving Car Project and later became Waymo in 2016. Waymo’s mission is to make transportation safer, easier, and more accessible by developing fully autonomous vehicles that can drive without human intervention.

The company’s technology uses a combination of sensors, including lidar (light detection and ranging), cameras, and radar, to create a detailed map of the environment around the vehicle. This allows Waymo cars to navigate roads, detect obstacles, and respond to complex driving situations, mimicking the behavior of a human driver but with heightened precision and attention to detail. The company’s tech is superior to competitors using only cameras to navigate.

Waymo has been testing its autonomous vehicles in various cities for several years, including Phoenix, Arizona, where it has launched a public autonomous ride-hailing service called Waymo One.

In addition to its ride-hailing services, Waymo has been expanding its partnerships and operations. In 2023, the company announced its international expansion, with plans to launch autonomous vehicles in Tokyo. This marked a significant milestone for Waymo as it expands its reach beyond the United States.

Waymo’s autonomous vehicles are designed to operate in a variety of environments, from city streets to highways, with the goal of reducing traffic accidents, improving mobility, and providing a sustainable transportation solution. The company continues to invest in research and development to refine its technology, enhance safety features, and eventually scale its operations to include more cities and applications.

Waymo is widely regarded as one of the most advanced companies in the autonomous vehicle sector, and its efforts are helping to shape the future of transportation. By pushing the boundaries of self-driving technology, Waymo aims to create a world where autonomous vehicles can enhance the safety and efficiency of transportation systems globally.