Mixer: When Tech trumps the Tach

For decades, automakers have looked to the auto shows of Los Angeles, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and others to unveil their latest luxury vehicle and concept cars of the future.

But more and more, it’s the Consumer Electronic Show – or C.E.S. as it’s called – in Las Vegas where they’re making their big splashes.

So far, at C.E.S. 2016, General Motors has pulled back the curtain on a commercial version of its Chevy Bolt; Volkswagen announced a new, electric microbus; and Kia — the Korean automaker — is offering a new sub-brand for is autonomous-driving features.

But perhaps more important than those headlines, is the fact that automakers are focusing more on the latest tech features when marketing their products.

Just back from Vegas, is Frances Anderton, the host of KCRW’s Design and Architecture. And Steve LeVine is Washington Correspondent for Quartz magazine. He’s also the author of The Powerhouse: America, China, and the Great Battery War.

Both joined us for the Mixer.