The Future of Driving: AI Takes the Wheel at CES 2026

CES 2026 in Las Vegas is buzzing with excitement about autonomous driving. This year, AI and self-driving tech are stealing the spotlight from electric vehicles. The industry is making a big bet on AI to boost growth after facing challenges with EVs. For years, CES was the place to see the latest electric vehicles. But now, the focus has shifted. Companies are showing off AI-powered self-driving systems instead. This change comes as the industry rethinks its strategies after investing heavily in EVs. Automakers and startups are pitching AI-driven autonomy as the next big thing. They believe it can offer better software margins and long-term growth. However, the road to full autonomy is not easy. High costs, safety concerns, and regulations have already caused some companies to fail.Despite these challenges, recent progress has renewed interest. Tesla and Waymo have made strides in self-driving technology. Driver-assist systems are also improving, with features like hands-free highway driving becoming more common. CES 2026 is not just about cars. AI is also making waves in robotics, wearables, and smart home devices. Big names like Nvidia and AMD are highlighting the importance of AI infrastructure. Cost remains a major concern. Automakers are feeling the pinch from tariffs and competition. They are looking for ways to stay competitive while keeping prices down. The industry is hopeful that AI-driven autonomy can deliver the returns that EV hype promised but couldn't fully achieve.