Since Ford first graced the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas 12 years ago to launch its SYNC software for connected cars, a steady convoy of vehicle manufacturers has been headed for the world's biggest tech expo. But it was only last year that a carmaker first took the leap from showing off technology to launching a car at CES. The unlikely pioneer was Kia, with the Niro electric concept car. BMW also chose the event to showcase the new X5 crossover SUV, but only in virtual-reality demonstrations. Along with new tech from Nissan and Volvo, that was enough to see CES named one of the top 10 auto shows in the US. This year, it is likely to climb up the rankings as big marques succumb to the temptation to launch concept cars at the event. Daimler-Benz took the line honours at CES 2019, unveiling the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, which features an evolved version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, now controlled merely by gesture. Daimler also reveale...

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