Last updated on February 9th, 2026 at 09:25 pm
Nissan’s Taking a Practical Approach to Hands-Free Driving Tech
ALISA PRIDDLE 3-28-2025
Nissan and Infiniti will not offer Level 3 hands-free driving technology in North America any time soon, not due to a lack of capability, but because it is not a priority. The company faces challenges with new leadership and financial issues. Although Nissan can provide Level 3 systems and is testing Level 4 robotaxis in Japan, they are focusing on making Level 2 technology more appealing to consumers, who aren’t willing to pay extra for more advanced features. Research indicates that Level 3 driving is not a major consumer demand. Nissan continues to advance its technology and plans to test more robotaxis in Japan, hoping to address transportation challenges.
US Carmakers Crush It On Q1 EV Sales (Except You-Know-Who)
TINA CASEY 4-2-2025
GM and Ford are reporting strong electric vehicle sales for Q1 2025, as analysts suggest buyers may be acting before potential tariffs or changes to the federal EV tax credit. GM’s EV sales surged 94%, positioning the company as a strong contender for the #2 EV seller in the U.S., trailing only Tesla. “We’re the industry leader in trucks and affordable small SUVs, Cadillac is growing significantly in luxury, and we have the broadest portfolio in EVs in the industry,” stated GM executive VP and president of global markets Rory Harvey.
Ford also saw a boost, with hybrid sales up 33% and EV sales rising 12%, making up 15% of its total Q1 sales. While Tesla’s Q1 report has yet to be release, sales have reportedly been declining since Elon Musk took on a greater role in the White House.
Hyundai’s EVs are about to get smarter and more efficient with its new ‘Pleos’ brand
PETER JOHNSON 3-28-2025
Hyundai is evolving beyond traditional automaking with its new software brand, Pleos, aimed at creating advanced, software-defined vehicles. Launched at Hyundai’s developer conference, Pleos signifies Hyundai’s shift towards becoming a software-centric mobility provider. Derived from “Pleo,” meaning more, and OS, for operating system, this initiative promises high-tech connectivity. Hyundai’s platform integrates from the infotainment system (Pleos Connect) to the Vehicle Operating System and cloud infrastructure, enabling smart functions like autonomous driving. These features improve continuously via updates. Pleos Connect, based on Android, offers a smartphone-like interface with AI assistance. The first vehicle with Pleos Connect is expected in Q2 2026, with the goal of 20 million vehicles by 2030. By 2027, Hyundai plans to achieve Level 2+ autonomous driving, turning vehicles into self-learning systems, in collaboration with partners like Samsung and Google.
Rivian rolls out hands-free driving via software update
ERIC WALZ 3-27-2025
Rivian has introduced a hands-free driving feature called Enhanced Highway Assist through a software update for its second generation R1 vehicles. This system operates on 130,000 miles of roads in the U. S. and Canada, with plans for significant future expansion.
Rivian’s technology includes advanced cameras and radar, with AI-powered decision-making based on extensive data collection. The system is classified as Level 2, meaning drivers must stay alert and ready to take control. More capabilities are expected later this year, with a more advanced feature planned for 2026.
Tesla hypes ‘unsupervised full self-driving’ launch in June: here’s what it will actually launch
FRED LAMBERT 3-26-2025
Tesla is creating buzz around its upcoming unsupervised FSD launch in Austin this June, focusing on a paid ride-hailing service using self-driving technology. CEO Elon Musk announced plans for a no-driver-required launch at Tesla’s last earnings call. Current practices at Tesla’s Fremont facility include vehicles autonomously driving on private roads, unlike the planned public deployment. The transition to “unsupervised” is significant as Tesla’s FSD features have historically required supervision. Tesla’s Austin launch, using its existing vehicle lineup and potentially the new Cybercab, will operate within a geo-fenced area, offering services similar to Waymo, which uses lidar and other sensors. Though Tesla’s system relies solely on cameras, they may employ teleoperation for vehicle support. Despite Musk’s longstanding claims of imminent autonomy, the practical execution remains closely watched.
Self-Driving Car Firms Bleed Cash – WeRide CEO Says Only Regulation Can Steer Toward Profit
KURT ROBSON and SAMANTHA DUNN 3-31-2025
The U.S. autonomous vehicle market remains unprofitable, and industry leaders warn that slow federal regulations could put the country behind China. “If the federal government fails to act to advance sensible AV policies, we will cede our leadership in this economically crucial sector to China,” stated the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
Major autonomous technology companies, such as WeRide, Waymo, and Pony.ai have yet to turn a profit due to high software development, research, and maintenance costs. WeRide founder Tony Han stresses that federal regulation will be a deciding factor. “What I want in the next five years is that, first of all, this company can become profitable…I think from a technology perspective, it will definitely support this within five years, but there are more commercial and policy considerations,” he told the Financial Times.
