As cars become ever more sophisticated in terms of technology and performance, a new market segment is emerging - the autonomous, or semi-autonomous vehicle. However, the roadmap and timeline to the fully autonomous vehicle remains far from clear. As does the question of who will control the future value chain in an urban transportation landscape being transformed by advanced technologies that promise the smarter and more sustainable movement of people and goods. We consider the issues.

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are rarely out of the media spotlight. The Next Big Thing, we often hear, will open up 'endless possibilities' as we travel from A to B. Yet with so much drama (and hype) around the vision of self-driving cars, it's sometimes difficult to separate fantasy from reality or even gain a real sense how soon we could share one. Continuing just-auto/QUBE's series of research snapshots, this one covers recent auto industry activity in the AV arena, specifically supplier innovations, partnerships and acquisitions.

Visteon has transitioned from a multi-product, Ford spin-off to a focused electronics supplier with a diverse customer base. Since its divestment of non-core businesses and integration of Johnson Controls' electronics business, the supplier is now singularly focused on cockpit electronics. Its product portfolio includes audio, information displays, instrument clusters, cockpit domain controllers, head-up display, infotainment and telematics. We caught up with Markus Schupfner, chief technology officer, Visteon to learn more about its cockpit technology showcase.

Autonomous vehicles are increasingly seen as at the heart of a radically different future landscape for transport solutions in the world's major urban areas. But don't believe all the hype, says just-auto editor Dave Leggett.

What to do once autonomous cars are everywhere and no human driving is required? Ask Kia Motors which previewed a range of new technologies developed for the post-autonomous driving era at CES 2019 in Las Vegas. Still at the blue sky stage, perhaps, but Kia is thinking ahead to the age when autonomous cars are everyday mobility.

The global vehicle market was virtually flat in 2018, but the fourth quarter showed a near 5% year-on-year drop on the back of a similarly sized
decline posted in Q3. Dave Leggett takes a look at the market numbers and considers the outlook for 2019.

Some say non-premium makes tend not to be successful in Europe's D segment. We size up the Kia Optima.