Mercedes to debut Nvidia Level 2++ assist in US as CES backs AI robotaxis
The recent Consumer Electronics Show turned heads not with new battery packs but with software that promises to take the wheel. While automakers traditionally used the expo to flaunt range‑boosting tech, this year the spotlight fell on autonomous‑driving prototypes and the firms behind them. Hyundai’s presence hinted at a broader industry pivot, and the buzz around Nvidia’s AI chips suggested a new competitive axis.
Mercedes, for its part, confirmed that it will bring a Nvidia‑powered Level 2++ driver‑assist system to the United States before the calendar flips. Meanwhile, Uber used the stage to tease a 2026 rollout of its Lucid Gravity robotaxi, underscoring a timeline that stretches well beyond the next model year. The convergence of these announcements points to a shift in priorities: hardware that once centered on electric powertrains is now being evaluated for its ability to enable autonomous services.
That change sets the stage for the following observation.
EVs are out, and AI and robotaxis are in. In addition to Hyundai, Mercedes announced its plans to roll out its Nvidia-powered Level 2++ driver assist feature in the US later this year. Also coming in 2026 is Uber's new Lucid Gravity robotaxi, which was also on display at CES.
And Nvidia, the world's biggest chipmaker and arguably the company most responsible for the current AI bubble, announced a new family of open-source models called Alpamayo, which it says will power new autonomous and driver-assistance features. CES has always been a hotbed for robots and other assorted AI ephemera, but it also used to be the hottest car show around.
Mercedes will roll out Nvidia‑powered Level 2++ driver assistance in the United States later this year, according to the CES announcement. Hyundai, meanwhile, used its keynote to showcase a humanoid robot that has already appeared on previous stages. Uber’s Lucid Gravity robotaxi is slated for a 2026 debut, also on display at the show.
The shift in focus—from electric‑vehicle launches to autonomous‑driving demos—signals a notable change in how automakers are positioning themselves at the world’s biggest electronics expo. Yet, the practical impact of these features remains unclear. Will Level 2++ provide a measurable safety benefit, or will it simply add another layer of driver‑monitoring software?
The robotaxi concepts generate interest, but regulatory pathways and real‑world testing timelines are still undefined. As CES continues to prioritize AI and robotaxis over traditional EV showcases, observers are left to watch whether the promised capabilities translate into everyday mobility solutions. Until more data emerge, the true significance of these announcements is uncertain.
Further Reading
- NVIDIA DRIVE AV Software Debuts in All-New Mercedes-Benz CLA - NVIDIA Blog
- We Sample Mercedes-Benz's MB.Drive Assist Pro - Car and Driver
- NVIDIA Rubin Platform, Open Models, Autonomous Driving - NVIDIA Blog
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Common Questions Answered
When is Mercedes scheduled to launch its Nvidia‑powered Level 2++ driver‑assist feature in the United States?
Mercedes confirmed at CES that it will roll out the Nvidia‑powered Level 2++ driver‑assist system in the United States later this year. The announcement ties the launch to the upcoming holiday season, giving consumers early access to the advanced assistance technology.
What role does Nvidia’s new open‑source model family Alpamayo play in the autonomous‑driving ecosystem highlighted at CES?
Nvidia introduced Alpamayo as an open‑source suite of AI models designed to power next‑generation autonomous‑driving applications. According to the company, these models will underpin features like Mercedes’ Level 2++ system, providing the computational backbone for real‑time perception and decision‑making.
How did Hyundai’s CES presentation illustrate the industry’s shift from electric‑vehicle launches to AI‑driven robotaxi concepts?
Hyundai used its CES keynote to showcase a humanoid robot, signaling a broader strategic pivot toward AI and robotaxi technologies. This move underscores the automaker’s intent to diversify beyond pure EV hardware and invest in intelligent mobility solutions.
What are the announced timeline and key details for Uber’s Lucid Gravity robotaxi revealed at CES?
Uber’s Lucid Gravity robotaxi was unveiled at CES with a target debut in 2026. The vehicle is positioned as a fully autonomous, AI‑controlled taxi service that will leverage advanced sensor suites and Nvidia’s computing platforms.