2026 Paris Motor Show Highlights Autonomous Vehicles and Robotics

Robots captivated attendees at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, which opened on October 12 in France. The four-legged robot Argos, developed by the Chinese Chery Group's robotics subsidiary AiMOGA, showcased its skills by mimicking a dog, wagging its body and sitting among the crowd.

Now in its 91st edition, the Paris Motor Show is the world's first automobile exhibition, having debuted in 1898. This year's event runs until October 18, featuring over 60 automakers from major automotive-producing countries, including France, Germany, South Korea, and China.

The competition at this year's show extended beyond electric vehicles (EVs). Chinese automaker XPENG pushed the boundaries by presenting a strategy that encompasses autonomous driving, humanoid robots, and flying cars under the theme "Physical AI For All."

Hyundai Motor also drew attention by displaying Boston Dynamics' four-legged robot Spot, which demonstrated its ability to navigate stairs and tilt its head. In front of it was the Ioniq 5, equipped with Waymo's autonomous driving technology. Hyundai announced plans to explore expanding its autonomous driving service collaboration with Waymo beyond the U.S. market.

The competition for innovative technologies coincided with a battle for diverse automotive powertrains. As attendees moved through the exhibition, they found hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles alongside battery electric vehicles (BEV). Hyundai showcased the new Tucson, which includes HEV and PHEV options, while Kia unveiled the Seltos HEV and K4 HEV, along with pure electric models EV3, EV4, and EV5, marking their European debut.

European manufacturers also reflected this trend. Renault, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis expanded their offerings. Volkswagen introduced the ID. Tiguan, the first BEV to carry the name of its best-selling SUV, which will be available early next year, adding to its existing gasoline, diesel, mild hybrid (MHEV), and PHEV options.

The fierce competition to meet consumer demand for diverse powertrains was evident throughout the exhibition. Companies unveiling new models raised their voices to attract as many visitors as possible. Attendees eagerly compared the expanded selection of eco-friendly vehicles.

Additionally, the presence of rapidly growing Chinese automakers was unmistakable. The exhibition space reflected a competitive landscape among European, Korean, and Chinese manufacturers, with Chinese brands prominently featured, altering the traditional dynamics of the Paris Motor Show.