CES 2025’s West Hall was a showcase of transformative technologies in commercial vehicles, emphasizing the industry’s shift towards electrification, automation, and software-defined platforms.
Autonomous and AI-Driven Innovations
Companies like Torc Robotics and Aurora Innovation presented their latest autonomous truck technologies, highlighting advancements in safety and freight efficiency. Despite some industry setbacks, such as General Motors winding down its Cruise robotaxi business, the potential for autonomous trucks remains significant, especially in addressing driver shortages and improving operational margins . 
Software-Defined Vehicle Platforms
Sonatus introduced its software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions, including a restored 1970 Ford Bronco retrofitted with modern SDV technology. Their platform offers advanced networking, data management, and cloud integration, enabling OEMs to transition to more adaptable and intelligent vehicle systems . 
Advanced Mapping and Simulation Tools
HERE Technologies unveiled AI-powered mapping solutions in collaboration with AWS. Their SceneXtract tool allows for real-world driving simulations, aiding in the development of automated driving systems. Additionally, their AI Assistant offers real-time, location-specific guidance, enhancing the driving experience for both passenger and commercial vehicles . 
Innovations in Driveline and Powertrain Technologies
American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) showcased a range of driveline and powertrain technologies supporting electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles. Their focus on electric mobility solutions underscores the industry’s commitment to sustainable transportation . 
Overall, CES 2025’s West Hall highlighted the commercial vehicle sector’s rapid evolution, driven by technological advancements aimed at creating safer, more efficient, and sustainable...
Read moreThe Las Vegas Convention Center’s new West Hall is an impressive addition that brings some serious shine to the overall convention experience, especially during the annual SEMA show. Every year, SEMA draws thousands of small business owners from around the world, filling up the entire convention center, and the West Hall gives a modern edge to the massive space. The West Hall itself is bright, open, and expansive—definitely a game-changer for accommodating the huge crowds and innovative exhibits that SEMA is known for.
However, as much as I appreciate the design and the state-of-the-art features, there’s one thing that stands out as a design flaw: the lack of an entrance at the corner of Paradise Road and Convention Center Drive. During SEMA, walking up to the West Hall feels like a tease. You see where you need to be, but the doors are only accessible from farther along, forcing a roundabout journey to the middle of the building before doubling back inside. For anyone who’s already lugging equipment or just eager to dive into the action, this entrance design feels counterintuitive and unnecessarily tiring.
On the plus side, once inside, the West Hall is stunning, with high ceilings, lots of natural light, and a layout that truly brings out the best in every exhibit. And having been to SEMA here, I can confidently say that this hall is a fitting venue for the world’s largest gathering of small business owners and automotive enthusiasts. Overall, I’m excited to see how the space continues to evolve, but here’s hoping they rethink the entrance logistics to make it as smooth as possible for...
Read moreAttended the NAB show at the Las Vegas Convention Center and was seriously impressed by how massive and well-run the entire place is. Even though there was construction going on, everything was clearly marked and easy to navigate, which made a huge difference when you’re trying to find your way through such a large venue. The space is enormous—you could easily walk miles just getting from one hall to another—but it never felt chaotic. One of the coolest features was the underground Tesla ride (the LVCC Loop), which felt futuristic and was a surprisingly efficient way to travel between halls without wasting time or energy. The entire facility was clean, modern, and had plenty of signage, restrooms, food vendors, and spots to sit or recharge your gear. Staff on-site were helpful and kept things moving smoothly even with the crowds. I appreciated how well-organized the experience was from entry to exit. Everything felt polished and professional, which made the long days on the floor much more enjoyable. Overall, the Las Vegas Convention Center is an excellent venue for large-scale events like NAB. It’s built for size, but still manages to feel welcoming and efficient. Can’t wait to return for...
Read more