18 Emerging Technologies

A look at auto industry innovations, trends and ideas that could play a greater role in future vehicles

These technologies may still be emerging from the status of "new," but they might well persevere and press on to become accepted standards in an industry that won't stop improving.

Bicycle detection systems becoming a safety standard

Bicycle detection systems are beginning to catch on in new vehicles — and could soon be a standard safety feature.

Hydrogen will give trucking long-haul fuel option

While electric trucks are poised to take over hauling cargo locally and regionally, the industry is looking at hydrogen fuel cell rigs for longer distances.

Companies develop head-up displays with augmented reality tech

Head-up displays are becoming increasingly common in new vehicles — and more high tech.

Already a promising technology, regenerative braking shows new power

Regenerative braking isn't a new concept. But that didn't stop Hyundai from rethinking how regenerative braking systems can be used.

Lidar emerging in a smaller, less-expensive form

Many industry observers believe future iterations of lidar must have fewer moving parts and use smaller, solid-state lidar for widespread adoption.

Hydrogen combustion, led by Toyota, gains as EV alternative tech

Hydrogen-burning engines are still in development, but they're certain to take root as Toyota leads the industry in exploring this EV alternative technology.

BMW's color-changing vehicle tech promises more personalization, greater efficiency

The BMW i Vision Dee concept vehicle can display 32 different colors in different patterns on the vehicle's exterior.

Who says EV drivers shouldn't be able to drift?

New electric models from Hyundai, Kia and even the luxury brand Genesis have introduced settings specifically for drifting.

Suppliers roll out friendlier materials to hit climate targets

Automakers and suppliers are turning to greener versions of materials that go into their vehicles and parts.

Software eases payments from cockpit

Hyundai, GM, Tesla and other automakers already offer in-car payment solutions that allow connected vehicles to buy parking and fuel right through the cockpit.

Mobile carbon capture system traps CO2 emissions, turns it into diesel

Michigan startup Remora has developed a system that captures carbon emissions emitted by semi-trucks as they drive.

Wireless electric vehicle charger a reality with robot

Wireless EV charging has been a holy grail of next-gen tech for a decade, but so far has not materialized. Stellantis may help move the needle on that.

Automakers plan for more intuitive digital cockpits

For years, automakers, suppliers and tech firms have been creating more high-tech vehicle cockpits. Many companies are now looking to simplify what the industry has done.

Silicon carbide chips promise greater EV range

Silicon carbide chips can boost EV battery range by as much as 6 percent compared to a standard silicon-based semiconductor.

Miss a loan payment? Your car will shut down

A new technology may give automakers the ability to shut down your vehicle.

Teijin brings a flame-retardant innovation to EV batteries

Teijin Automotive has managed to produce an advanced flame-retardant material that should ease consumer and automaker worries about battery fires.

Over-the-air upgrades will become integral to vehicle ownership

Legacy automakers, long chasing Tesla in launching vehicle updates over the air, have been taking big steps of their own.

A new level of safety: Emergency steering

A smart steering system takes control of the wheel to reposition the vehicle to avoid or reduce the impact.