(January 12, 2011) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is still a popular destination for the world of computers, mobile devices and home electronics, but automotive technology is quickly becoming a top focus for show exhibitors and exhibitors, reports Edmunds.com.

This year CES plays host to 488 car technology exhibitors, making the show almost as critical to the auto industry as traditional shows like this week's North American International Auto Show half a continent away in Detroit.

"Within the last five years, CES has become an ideal venue for vehicle brands to unveil their latest and greatest gadgets," says Edmunds.com Senior Technology Editor Doug Newcomb. "The auto industry's growing involvement in CES underscores the reality that many consumers are more interested in the technological advances inside the cabin rather than under the hood."

Some of the automotive innovations showcasing at the 2012 CES include:

    • Roximity — This debut app found exclusively in Ford's Sync infotainment system provides a driver with real-time discounts that are linked to their locations and are based on personal preferences. So, a driver passing a favorite restaurant can be given verbal alerts on specials and daily deals.

    • MyLink — General Motors created this in-dash system, pictured at left, with electronics giant LG for lowest price vehicles Chevy Sonic and Chevy Spark. The technology is designed to use a smartphone's apps to access cloud-based content and navigation

    • Drive Style — Mercedes-Benz's new iPhone app will sync up with the brand's 2013 model year vehicles to appear on an in-dash display, making the iPhone's familiar interface available for drivers with minimal distraction

    • Viper SmartStart 3.0 — Remote engine-starting systems are old hat by now, but the new release from Directed Electronics adds the ability to show drivers the car's current temperature on their smartphones so they can make sure the cabin is comfy before they get into the car.

Edmunds.com's full preview of the top automotive technology on display at CES — including a look at new car stereo innovations from industry leaders Pioneer and Kenwood — can be found by clicking here.