CES 2025: this year’s top automotive takeaways
The buzzword dominating CES 2025’s automotive space? “Software-defined vehicle (SDV),” with connected cars from BMW, Sony Honda Mobility and others emphasizing AI capabilities.
As one of the world’s largest trade shows, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas has become the ultimate stage for thousands of companies eager to unveil their latest tech innovations. But CES isn’t just about cutting-edge gadgets—it has also grown into one of the most significant automotive and mobility showcases on the planet.
With over 4,000 exhibitors and tens of thousands of journalists, enthusiasts and industry insiders, CES 2025 offered an overwhelming, awe-inspiring glimpse into the future. From groundbreaking tech to game-changing vehicles, here are some of the standout trends that caught our attention this year.
The year of the SDV
HERE announced that it is teaming up with BMW and Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) to redefine the future of driving with cutting-edge mapping and navigation systems.
New BMW models will feature HERE’s sophisticated map data and AI-powered UniMap system, enabling lane-level positioning, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and compliance with European safety regulations.
Integrated into SHM’s AFEELA electric vehicles (EVs), HERE’s mapping platform supports a range of in-car systems, including EV range management and augmented reality features.
For instance, the in-vehicle infotainment system powered by HERE Navigation SDK offers seamless guidance, safety alerts, and EV-specific tools displayed on the car's digital screens.
Additionally, the HERE SDK (Explore edition) works with the AFEELA mobile app, providing drivers with real-time map updates and syncing their digital lives effortlessly with the driving experience.
Highlighting the industry’s shift toward AI and digital innovation, Maite Alves Bezerra, Principal Analyst at WardsAuto shared her insights during a LinkedIn Live session at CES, alongside HERE CEO Mike Nefkens. She said: “The new start-ups and disruptors [in the automotive industry] have been investing heavily in computing power and AI to enhance user experiences, from manufacturing to autonomous driving technologies.”
AI aboard
Artificial intelligence was the defining theme of CES 2025, appearing not only in headline features but also as the driving force behind many innovations. Whether boosting performance or enabling entirely new experiences, AI is fundamentally reshaping the automotive landscape.
“I know there’s been a lot of hype around AI,” said Bezerra. “But I honestly think it’s disrupting our reality and will continue to do so. What we’re seeing in laptops, smartphones, and robots, we’ll soon see in cars as well. We’re entering an era of AI-centric user experiences—where the focus is on the user, not the device.”
Leveling up
HERE has always been known for its mapping expertise, but this year, we showed how AI can take the connected car experience to the next level.
The new HERE AI Assistant can help with everyday tasks like finding the fastest route home, locating nearby charging stations, or even suggesting a scenic dinner location. Plus, it powers smart features like autonomous driving modes.
“The map is not about navigation anymore,” said Nefkens. “For me it is a safety feature where everything comes together. You can see what’s happening in your environment, the status of the vehicle, use generative AI to ask questions—it’s really going to change the [in-car] experience.”
As we move forward, the fusion of AI, mapping, and digital innovation will continue to redefine the way we interact with our vehicles—making each journey not just smarter, but safer and more intuitive. The automotive industry is no longer just about driving; it’s about connecting, enhancing and evolving with every mile.
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