The Best Cars and Autotech of CES 2025
Automakers gave us a glimpse at a future where vehicles are smarter, more connected, and even ready to take flight.
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 has delivered plenty of futuristic automotive concepts so far — from flying cars to AI-powered infotainment systems. While autonomous driving and sustainability remain key trends, this year's announcements highlighted new form factors and next-gen connectivity.
Here are the standout car announcements from CES 2025, featuring both well-known brands and emerging players.
Kelechi Edeh
1. Honda Zero (0) Series
Honda's Zero (0) Series, featuring the Zero Saloon and Zero SUV, represents the automaker’s most ambitious EV project yet. Set to launch in North America by 2026, Honda is blending next-gen electrification with a human-centered approach.
At the heart of these vehicles is the Asimo OS, named after Honda’s famous humanoid robot. The system aims to deliver “ultra personal optimization”, learning from driver behavior to provide customized experiences. It also features Level 3 autonomous driving, allowing hands-free driving on highways — meaning drivers can take a video call or watch a movie during long stretches.
Inside, the five-screen dashboard and digital mirrors showcase Honda’s “thin, light, and wise” design philosophy. With a 300-mile range and innovative AI systems, the Zero Series is positioned to be more than just a car — it’s a driving partner. However, pricing is not yet available.
2. Hyundai’s Full-Windshield Holographic Display
Hyundai Mobis introduced what it calls the world’s first full-windshield holographic display. Unlike traditional heads-up displays (HUDs) that project information onto a small section of the windshield, this technology spans the entire width of the glass.
The display can show navigation directions, speed, and real-time object detection alerts, all directly in the driver’s line of sight. Hyundai claims the system reduces distractions by keeping critical information front and center, even in low-light or harsh weather conditions.
Additionally, the holographic display is split into zones — with dedicated areas for both the driver and passenger. Hyundai expects this technology to hit vehicles by 2027, and it’s a bold leap toward making augmented reality (AR) a standard feature in cars.
3. BMW’s Panoramic iDrive System
BMW has taken its famous iDrive system to the next level with the introduction of the Panoramic iDrive System (Panoramic Vision), which it claims transforms the entire dashboard into a digital display.
This wraparound screen is expected to provide navigation, media controls, and vehicle diagnostics in real time, while minimizing distractions by keeping critical information at eye level.
Powered by BMW’s latest AI assistant, the system learns from driver behavior and adapts content to suit individual preferences. BMW plans to roll out the Panoramic Vision across its lineup by the end of 2025.
4. Sony-Honda Afeela 1 EV
Sony Honda Mobility wants to push the boundaries of automotive technology with the Afeela 1 EV, a luxury sedan that blends cutting-edge tech features with practical driving needs.
The Afeela 1 is equipped with 40 sensors, enabling autonomous driving and driver assistance systems. Inside, the car boasts a PlayStation-inspired infotainment system and a Media Bar on the exterior that can display interactive messages to other drivers or pedestrians.
Sony has opened pre-orders for the Afeela 1 in California, with prices starting at $89,900. Deliveries are expected to begin in mid-2026.
5. XPENG AEROHT’s Modular Flying Car
Flying cars have long been the stuff of science fiction, but Chinese automaker XPENG is turning that dream into reality with its Land Aircraft Carrier — a modular flying car concept.
The car features a foldable eVTOL drone that deploys from the trunk. In ground mode, the vehicle is a 6×6 tri-axle SUV with off-road capabilities, while the air module allows for short flights with both manual and autonomous modes.
XPENG expects to start production later this year, with deliveries planned for 2026. The price tag is expected to come in at under $300,000, making it a luxury option for adventurous buyers or even emergency services looking for quick, versatile mobility solutions.
6. Aptera’s Solar-Powered Vehicle
Aptera’s solar-powered EV aims to make charging a thing of the past by offering up to 11,000 miles of free driving per year using solar energy alone.
The vehicle’s lightweight, aerodynamic design features solar panels that capture sunlight even when parked, providing up to 40 miles of range per day without plugging in. With an estimated 1,000-mile range per charge, Aptera is positioning itself as a solution for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Aptera expects to launch its solar EV in 2026, and while pricing hasn’t been confirmed, the vehicle likely targets a niche market of sustainability-focused consumers.
Conclusion
The automotive innovations showcased so far at CES 2025 offer a glimpse into a future where cars are smarter, more sustainable, and even capable of flying. These vehicles stand out for their bold ideas and forward-thinking designs, making them key indicators of where mobility is headed.
