Carmakers attend CES 2022 to showcase electrified vehicles

On Wednesday, January 5, the Consumer Electronics Show, better known as CES 2022, kicks off in Las Vegas. This event plays host to technological innovations in industries ranging from gaming and 5G networking to smart cities and robotics. Automotive companies have become a huge attraction at the show in recent years, and CES 2022 is set to overshadow any previous events.

Despite the show being shorted to only three days due to COVID-19 protocols, the stage is set for major announcements by carmakers, especially regarding electrification in their fleets. These are just a few of the announcements expected by automotive companies at the show. 

General Motors to reveal Silverado EV along with keynote address by Mary Barra 

During Wednesday’s events at CES, the new Chevy Silverado EV is expected to be highlighted. Although participation by General Motors is going to be virtual, the Silverado EV is going to be unveiled. Immediately following the reveal, GM will begin accepting orders for the electrified pickup. 

How it plays out wasn’t fully described before the show. GM CEO Mary Barra is scheduled for a keynote address at 9 am EST on Wednesday and is expected to share news about BrightDrop, the EV600 commercial vehicle, and the EP1 electric pallet during her address. It’s quite likely she will present the EV truck also.

Mercedes-Benz showcases the Vision EQXX 

During the two days before the in-person show begins, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a concept car that’s expected to rival luxury EV carmakers. The Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX is a battery electric vehicle with more than 648 miles of range thanks to supplemental solar power on board. While there are no current production plans, the model is expected to be the basis for a production model to rival the Lucid Air and Tesla Model S. 

Mercedes-Benz defended its range expectations, saying that it’s achieved not by increasing the battery size but by “pull[ing] out all the stops in drivetrain efficiency, energy density, aerodynamics, and lightweight design… The result is an efficiency masterpiece.”

Stellantis to unveil the Chrysler Airflow Concept

Also on Wednesday, Stellantis is scheduled to take the virtual stage to present the Chrysler Airflow Concept for the first time publicly. CEO Carlos Tavares will host a live broadcast at 11 am EST along with the company’s future electrification strategy, laying out the brand’s plans to position itself at the forefront of mobility and technology. 

The Chrysler Airflow Concept is likely to be a stylish crossover with an expected electric range of up to 440 miles. Pricing is expected to be competitive with mass-market EVs like the Tesla Model Y and the Ford Mustang Mach-E, hovering between $50,000 and $60,000 depending on the trim level. However, it’s probably at least two years until this concept is converted to a production model. 

VinFast to appear at CES 2022

Vietnamese carmaker VinFast is booked to present at CES 2022 at 4 pm EST on Wednesday. The company unveiled two of its five models at the LA Auto Show in November and is set to showcase the remaining three in their stable. These three models are said to give VinFast an entry into A, B, and C segments.

Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup Ms. Thuy Le said, “VinFast will bring high-standard designs, advanced technologies, and a wide range of products to global consumers at CES 2022. We contribute our best products to offer more convenient and accessible options for the public to transition to EVs and create a more sustainable future for our planet.”

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