Car-makers to front tech show

It was once synonymous as a video-game show before it morphed -- more aptly -- into being known for consumer gadgets.

Now the bustling International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas has in recent years become a showcase for car-makers to display their progress in gadgetry on the move.

So much so that for next year’s show, to be held over January 7-10, Audi CEO Rupert Stadler will be present the keynote address at 8:30pm the night before the official show opening.

Audi is keeping a lid on what he will speak about, but is expected to touch on the company’s new multi-media interface (MMI) concept for 2014 and enhancements to its Java browser-based Audi Virtual Cockpit.

Audi first appeared at the 2011 CES, along with only a handful of automotive manufacturers, and has had a presence on the floor ever since.

The number of car-makers has increased every year since then and this year no fewer than 416 exhibitors will present automotive technologies.

Ford and Lexus both had a big presence last year, but the Blue Oval will ramp that up further in 2014, when the all-new Mustang will be the official car of the CES, where Ford will also reveal new details of the 2015 fastback coupe.

“Mustang has always been more than just a car, as it reminds us of the freedom and joy that comes from traveling the open road,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Executive Vice-President of Global Marketing, Sales and Service and Lincoln.

“With world-class performance and innovative technologies wrapped in a sleek design, the all-new Ford Mustang puts you in control of the driving experience that suits you best.”

At the 2014 CES, where a 2015 Mustang will sit in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Ford will showcase the new Mustang’s integration of Ford SYNC connectivity systems.

Via AppLink, it will give smartphone owners options to control apps via the car’s MyFord Touch eight-inch touch-screen.

Due on sale in Australia in 2015, the new Mustang will also come with launch control, collision warning with brake support and, for the first time in a Ford, individualised tyre pressure monitoring systems.

“It is very exciting to see an iconic American car like Mustang equipped with state-of-the-art technology,” said Gary Shapiro, President and CEO or the Consumer Electronics Association.

“Automobiles are rapidly becoming mobile technology platforms as consumers demand connectivity along with efficiency and performance in their vehicles.

“With features like upgraded SYNC, Ford automobiles are built with cutting-edge technology that can make driving safer and more enjoyable. We are overjoyed to see Ford return to our show and to have the new Mustang as official car of the 2014 CES.”