Sony Honda Mobility's ultra-high-tech Afeela 1 electric vehicle comes with a $90,000 price tag, which limits its market, and U.S dealers are disappointed in its direct-to-consumer sales model.
The incoming presidential administration, the prospect of industry consolidation and the threat posed by China underscored the mood at this year's CES.
The auto industry must make the substantial changes to supply chain, vehicle architecture and development processes that are required to make SDVs a reality in the U.S.
An unlikely cast of companies stole the self-driving spotlight at CES. Their presence in Las Vegas may signal that autonomy is poised for wider adoption in certain niche applications.
Automakers' focus on strategy, rather than splashy surprises, reflects the industry’s concern over how the incoming Trump administration will upend policies and plans already in motion.
The improvements include smoother lane changes, a better understanding of road conditions and a simpler button layout. The first Neue Klasse model is set to launch later this year.
The Sony-Honda EV joint venture will forgo using a dealer network to distribute its Afeela 1 midsize battery-electric sedan in favor of online sales.