Last updated on February 9th, 2026 at 09:22 pm
Waymo Recalls 1,200 Self-Driving Vehicles After Minor Collisions
DAVID SHEPARSON and DEBORAH MARY SOPHIA 5-14-2025
A year after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation into Waymo’s self-driving vehicles for potential traffic law violations, the company is now recalling over 1,200 vehicles equipped with its fifth-generation autonomous driving software. According to NHTSA, the affected vehicles were involved in incidents where they collided with clearly visible objects that a capable human driver would typically avoid. NHTSA confirmed that no injuries occurred in connection with these incidents.
In a statement this week, Waymo emphasized its commitment to safety: “Waymo provides more than 250,000 paid trips each week in some of the most challenging driving environments in the U.S. Our record of reducing injuries over tens of millions of fully autonomous miles driven shows our technology is making roads safer.”
Toyota reveals new name, upgraded tech for its sole U.S. EV
MICHAEL WAYLAND 5-13-2025
This week, Toyota unveiled a refreshed version of its all-electric vehicle, simplifying the model’s name from “bZ4X” to simply “bZ” for the 2026 model year. Although the original version received mixed reviews and faced an early recall due to wheel issues, Toyota appears to be addressing those setbacks with significant upgrades. The 2026 bZ will feature up to 25% increase in driving range and 50% faster charging capabilities with the inclusion of Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS) port. Toyota hopes that these advancements could better position the vehicle as a stronger competitor to the Tesla Model Y and Chevrolet Equinox. The bZ is expected to hit U.S showrooms in the second half of the year, though pricing details have yet to be announced.
Even Tesla’s Insurance Arm Is Getting Wrecked Right Now
ROB STUMPF 5-9-2025
In 2019, Tesla aimed to lower insurance rates for its electric car owners to fix the flawed insurance cost system. However, the company’s insurance division faced significant losses, with a loss ratio of 103. 3 in 2024, far worse than the industry average of 66. 1. Customer dissatisfaction has also been high due to long repair times and poor communication. Insurance rates for models like the Model Y have risen up to 30% yearly. Tesla’s high repair costs and lack of efficient customer service might force it to continue operating at a loss in insurance.
NHTSA asks Tesla how it plans to release its robotaxi service based on FSD
FRED LAMBERT 5-12-2025
NHTSA is asking Tesla to release data from its ‘Full Self-Driving (FSD)’ program. The agency wants to understand the link between Tesla’s planned robotaxi service in Austin and the FSD program, which is under investigation for safety issues. NHTSA knows little about the service, set to launch soon. Tanya Topka from NHTSA requested more details on Tesla’s plans and how they will ensure safety for public roads. They seek clarity on which parts of the FSD will be used and any differences in safety data.
Our self-driving future has yet to materialize. What’s next for AV tech?
JORDYN GRZELEWSKI 5-13-2025
AVs haven’t fully met the high expectations set in their early days, but they still hold promise to revolutionize transportation. Edwin Olson, CEO of May Mobility, reflects on his experience with MIT’s DARPA Urban Challenge and highlights the industry’s significant progress despite numerous technical and regulatory challenges. Modern vehicles often include ADAS, and companies like Waymo lead in limited self-driving deployments. Technical hurdles remain, such as programming AVs to navigate countless real-world scenarios, and the high costs of developing these technologies further complicate mass adoption. Companies are focusing on expanding ADAS features. Looking forward, the industry aims for a future with reduced car ownership, increased reliance on shared autonomous transport, and improved safety. As AV technology continues to advance, experts predict broader integration into everyday life, especially in areas like ride-hailing, long-haul routes, and urban development.
First Ride Review: Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Assist Pro Delivers Near-Autonomous Capability
ANGUS MACKENZIE 5-9-2025
Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Assist Pro, a near-Level 3 autonomous driving system, will debut in the U.S. in 2026, following its Chinese rollout. The system links advanced driver assistance with AI-powered navigation, adapting to traffic and behavior patterns. Utilizing numerous sensors and cameras, it processes data to enhance safety, especially in urban environments with complex scenarios. Despite nearing Level 3, the system is classified as Level 2++, requiring occasional driver input. Features include “cooperative steering,” allowing driver intervention without system deactivation. Initially launching in China, where consumer demand for autonomous capability is high, the technology will expand to the U.S., leveraging Google Maps for enhanced functionality and safety across diverse driving conditions.
