Different paths could lead to autonomous cars

The exhibit space in Geneva was mostly used for the show's primary purpose: showing off product to the news media and the public in order to boost sales.

Technology such as autonomous driving by cars equipped with cameras and radar sensors could blend with Internet connections and apps.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class luxury sedan from Daimler AG already offers wide-ranging, optional driver assistance technology.

Nissan says its Qashqai crossover SUV — that is, a sport-utility with some car-like features — will be equipped with what the company calls "stage one" autonomous driving technology that lets it drive itself in single-lane heavy traffic conditions on freeways.

Ford CEO Mark Fields spoke at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona about the company's plans for semi-autonomous functions such as cars that deal with traffic jams and parking, and its fully autonomous vehicle development program.