Autonomous driving and artificial intelligence are set to dominate CES 2026 in Las Vegas as automakers scale back electric vehicle launches amid slowing demand, rising costs, and regulatory pressure. With EV strategies under review, suppliers and startups are shifting attention to AI-powered self-driving systems, advanced driver assistance, and mobility software.
Industry executives say investors are increasingly backing autonomy as the next growth engine, following renewed momentum from Tesla’s limited robotaxi rollout in Austin and the expansion of Alphabet’s Waymo. Major technology leaders, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and AMD CEO Lisa Su, are expected to highlight AI’s role not only in vehicles but also across robotics, wearables, health tech, and consumer devices.
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Automakers continue to face high development costs, safety scrutiny, and the impact of tariffs on imported vehicles and components. Many are absorbing these costs to protect demand, tightening margins while competing with fast-moving Chinese manufacturers. As a result, CES 2026 is expected to reflect a strategic pivot toward autonomy, AI integration, and cost competitiveness rather than new EV unveilings.
