At CES, cars become proactive companions

At CES, automakers and tech firms showed AI-powered in-cabin systems that adapt to drivers and passengers, while experts raised questions about how much personal data those systems collect.

Automakers and technology companies used CES in Las Vegas to present cars with AI-driven cabin systems that respond to people inside the vehicle. Speakers described cabins that can recognize occupants, personalize media and monitor health or emotional signals. Major vendors including Nvidia and Bosch highlighted new software and sensor packages intended to make cars more aware and responsive. Consumer advocates and others at the show emphasized concerns about how much personal data these systems collect and how it might be used. Key points: - Nvidia announced Alpamayo, a vehicle AI initiative described at the show as designed to help autonomous systems make complex driving decisions, and its executives framed the program as a significant step for vehicle AI. - Bosch introduced an AI vehicle extension aimed at making the cabin a more proactive companion. - Demonstrations showed features such as occupant recognition, personalized media cues, heart-rate and emotion monitoring, and alerts if a child is left in a vehicle. - Consumer Reports’ Justin Brookman said the rise of in-car AI raises questions about privacy and security, noting that cars have only recently become major repositories of personal data and that rules are still being developed. - Suppliers like Gentex displayed mock cabins with AI-equipped sensors and cameras to demonstrate monitoring capabilities. Summary: The CES demonstrations indicate a shift toward sensor-rich, personalized in-cabin experiences that blend convenience and safety features with expanded data collection. Industry participants and consumer advocates reported ongoing discussions about privacy, security and the appropriate limits on data use. Undetermined at this time.