COVESA at CES: Connect2Car Highlights

The 25th Annual Connect2Car event, held on January 7, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, was an extraordinary exploration into the future of transportation and mobility. Sponsored by COVESA, this year’s theme, “Mobility 2050,” offered attendees a glimpse into the evolving automotive landscape. The event featured a series of engaging sessions led by thought leaders and innovators, with many of our member companies participating in the panels.

The event featured several standout sessions, each offering unique insights into the future of mobility:

Next Level Innovation

This session, with speakers from COVESA members Globant, Ford, and Butzel Long, explored innovations reshaping the automotive industry. Topics included seamless connectivity, addressing EV range anxiety, and evolving user experiences. Panelists highlighted the rise of immersive in-vehicle entertainment, the integration of AI and cybersecurity, and the challenges of maintaining safety while adopting new technologies. They emphasized the need for trust in software, cross-industry collaboration, and agile approaches to innovation.

Creating the Ultimate Vehicle Experience

Moderated by COVESA President Matt Jones from Ford, this session explored the rapid evolution of automotive tech and the power of collaboration. Panelists discussed innovations like voice assistants, generative AI, and customizable in-vehicle experiences, highlighting the role of AI and open platforms in enhancing user interaction. Emphasis was placed on the need for global solutions that address diverse market needs, and the shift toward a software-driven, user-centric future. The session underscored the importance of continuous innovation and adaptability in shaping the future of mobility.

Vehicle Payments – The Road Ahead

This session delved into the future of in-vehicle payment systems, featuring panelists from COVESA members Mavi.io and Verra Mobility. Discussions centered on the progress of vehicle-based payments and on the challenges and future potential of in-vehicle payments, aiming for active pilots soon.

Connected Vehicle Safety: Reducing Roadway Risk & Saving Lives

Tim Van Goethem of COVESA member Emergency Safety Solutions (ESS) led a session on the role of connected vehicle safety in reducing road risks and saving lives, featuring contributions from 911 services, telematics providers, and the automotive industry. The session concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration across sectors to integrate technology into 911 services, improve emergency responses, and reduce fatalities, underscoring connected vehicle technologies’ pivotal role in road safety.

Mobility Innovations: Unleashing New Possibilities

This session focused on integrating aftermarket products with OEMs and leveraging data to solve integration challenges. The session featured COVESA members Volvo, HAAS Alert, Aiden, and Mavi.io, and emphasized the evolution of vehicle networks and collaboration in driving innovation.

Driving Innovation and Leadership

COVESA’s involvement in Connect2Car underscores our commitment to fostering innovation in the connected automotive space.

For those interested in exploring the full sessions, visit the Connect2Car website. If you are inspired to join the community of innovators, consider joining COVESA or participating in its groups and projects at Join COVESA and COVESA Groups and Projects.

Join us in driving the future of connected automotive innovation!