A filing for attorneys’ fees and cost this week by Plaintiffs’ counsel in the Benevides case, which we have been following closely, revealed that Tesla rejected a $60 million settlement demand.  Although this pretrial demand was considerably less than the eventual $243 million verdict, it does not appear that Tesla thought the possibility of a punitive damages award was likely prior to trial.  As we reported, the punitive damages award was $200 million and will certainly be appealed.  Tesla countered the families’ proposed settlement with a much lower offer that demanded confidentiality, which was declined. Attorney Brett Schreiber highlighted that Tesla’s proposal was a fraction of the demand and the jury’s verdict. This case illuminates Tesla’s legal strategies when dealing with lawsuits related to its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features, an area linked with numerous crashes and fatalities, yet often settled outside the courtroom.

BYD’s Ferrari-slaying electric supercar shatters the EV speed record at nearly 300 mph (Peter Johnson – August 26, 2025)

BYD’s Yangwang U9 Track Edition has officially seized the title of the world’s fastest electric vehicle. During an August 8 test at Germany’s ATP Papenburg track, the Chinese-built hypercar reached a blistering 472.41 km/h (roughly 293 mph), surpassing the previous EV speed record by over 20%. More than a feat of speed, this moment marks a historic milestone: the first time a Chinese automaker has captured a global performance record at this scale, signaling China’s rising influence in a hypercar market long dominated by European giants.

With a starting price around $233,000, the hypercar delivers superior performance while costing nearly half as much as established supercar rivals like the Ferrari SF90 and Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.

Tesla FSD V14 to ‘Feel Alive,’ Second Biggest FSD Update Ever (Staff – August 20, 2025)

Elon Musk has confirmed that the next FSD update will be FSD v14, which is expected to be a significant improvement over previous versions. This update will only be available for HW4 vehicles and aims to reduce driver monitoring while enhancing the FSD experience.

FSD v14 will utilize 10 times more parameters than v13, improving performance and video quality. Musk highlighted that the update would make FSD feel more natural and human-like. He mentioned that driver monitoring would be less intense, allowing for more leniency unless drivers are frequently distracted. FSD v14 is anticipated to be released by the end of September, with the potential for new features like parking in garages and driveways.

Honda Taps Startup’s AI Tech for Self-Driving Cars (Graham Hope – August 21, 2025)

Honda has partnered with U.S. startup Helm.ai to integrate advanced AI technology into its mainstream vehicles’ ADAS. This “multi-year joint development agreement” will enhance Honda’s offerings with Helm.ai‘s real-time AI software, including autonomous driving features suited for highway and urban environments. Helm.ai’s suite includes perception and path prediction AI, leveraging Deep Teaching technology pre-trained on large datasets. This collaboration aims to accelerate Honda’s “Navigate on Autopilot” platform, offering partial automation and enhancing vehicle autonomy within broader model ranges. While Honda initiated automation with the Level 3 Legend sedan in 2021, the partnership seeks to regain competitive edge, targeting mass production after 2027. Honda aims to create a seamless driving experience across diverse terrains, focusing on reducing traffic collisions through advanced AI integration.

Stellantis pauses launch of automated driving tech due to ‘very limited’ market demand (Luke Ramseth – August 26, 2025)

Stellantis has suspended its plans to roll out Level 3 automated driving technology in its vehicles, citing high development costs, limited consumer demand, and ongoing technical challenges. Although the company had previously promoted its AutoDrive system as a major step forward in its software strategy, executives now say the technology won’t be launched any time soon despite having the capability in place if market conditions change.

This move reflects a broader pullback in Stellantis’s in-house software ambitions as the automaker shifts focus to external partners, such as aiMotive, to manage advanced driving development. The pause also comes amid weaker software performance, internal leadership changes, and declining stock value, raising questions about the company’s ability to compete in the increasingly software-driven future of mobility.

Waymo Brings Robotaxis to NYC Streets – But Can They Handle the Chaos? (Max Taylor – August 26, 2025)

Waymo has received the first permit to test self-driving cars in New York City, starting this September with eight Jaguar I-Pace EVs. Testing in the busy environment of Manhattan poses challenges, raising concerns about safety. Waymo claims its cars are safer than human drivers. The move is seen as a chance to establish leadership in autonomous tech, especially amid competition with Tesla. Success in New York could influence public perception and future approvals elsewhere, while failure could reinforce criticisms of autonomous vehicles. Ordinary New Yorkers wonder if robotaxis will improve their commutes or add to the chaos.

KEIGH NAUGHTON and BLOOMBERG 2-5-2025

Ford appears to be lagging in the electric vehicle market, having not introduced a new EV model in over two years. Like many other automakers, Ford has abandoned some of its EV goals, such as producing 2 million EVs by 2026, despite investing billions in developing new models. The EV market continues to face challenges, such as consumer range anxiety, concerns over inconsistent charging infrastructure, and, most significantly for Ford, rising EV prices. Bill Ford, the company’s executive chair, commented, “We are working very hard on EV affordability, because I think that will be the catalyst for much wider adoption.” Meanwhile, General Motors surpassed Ford in EV sales in the second half of 2024, and Tesla’s Cybertruck has now outsold Ford’s F-150 Lightning. Ford is expected to reveal its updated EV strategy for 2025 soon, including plans to generate a return on the billions invested in its electric vehicle initiatives.

Why Mercedes-Benz’s driver assistance system ranks higher than Tesla’s

ROBERT FERRIS 2-4-2025

Tesla’s Autopilot system, once a leader in advanced driver assistance, now ranks eighth per Consumer Reports, trailing behind Ford, GM, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen. The system uses names like “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving,” but the features are not quite as advanced as some may believe, says Kelly Funkhouser of Consumer Reports. Advanced driver assistance systems automate tasks to aid driving but differ from true self-driving cars. Features include “automatic emergency braking” and “lane centering.” Each system has its pros and cons; the best in one aspect may not excel universally. Mercedes-Benz’s EQE 350 SUV system excels in many areas but lacks a driver monitoring camera, unlike Ford’s BlueCruise and GM’s Super Cruise. Adding this feature could boost it to the top rank.

Waabi and Volvo team up to build self-driving trucks at scale

REBECCA BELLAN 2-4-2025

Volvo has partnered with self-driving truck startup Waabi to develop new autonomous commercial trucks. This collaboration will complement Volvo’s existing joint venture with Aurora Innovation, which was announced last spring to launch the Volvo VNL Autonomous truck. Waabi’s technology, including its sensor suite and Waabi Driver software, will be integrated into the same truck model. The first autonomous trucks are set to be produced at Volvo’s Virginia facility later this year, with testing scheduled to begin in Texas. A public road demonstration is planned for the end of the year. “2025 is the year of trucking; it’s a make it or break it situation,” said Raquel Urtasun, founder and CEO of Waabi. “Trucking is only the beginning.”

Honda’s new EV production revolution begins with $1 billion investment in Ohio

MICHAEL WAYLAND 2-3-2025

Honda Motor is investing over $1 billion in Ohio to enhance its manufacturing for electric vehicles (EVs). This includes installing six large “giga presses” and a new manufacturing system for electric vehicle battery cases. Ohio will be the main hub for Honda’s global vehicle production, capable of making traditional cars, hybrids, and EVs in the same plant.

Honda aims to produce 220,000 vehicles annually at its Marysville plant, which will debut an all-electric Acura RSX crossover. The company plans to introduce several EV prototypes and has set environmental goals, including zero emissions by 2050 and exclusively selling zero-emission vehicles by 2040. “The Honda EV hub in Ohio is establishing the global standard for EV production for people, for technology and for processes,” said Mike Fischer, North American lead for Honda’s battery-electric vehicle projects. “As we expand EV production regionally and globally, this is the footprint and the characteristic performance that will be used.”

Tesla’s new cars suffer massive failures in autonomous driving

ALBERTO NORIEGA 1-30-2025

Tesla’s latest vehicles with the HW4/AI4.1 self-driving computers are facing failures in critical functions like cameras, GPS, and active safety, often within the first few hundred miles. Rooted in potential short circuits during the camera calibration process involving the low-voltage battery, these issues compromise vehicle safety and reliability. A software patch is seen as a temporary fix, but experts suggest replacing the faulty computers for a permanent solution, which could lead to long wait times for owners. This has overwhelmed service centers, delayed service appointments, and led to unsatisfactory responses from dealers, raising customer frustration. The failures pose a challenge to Tesla’s reputation, especially as autonomous driving is crucial to its strategy. Without a swift resolution, Tesla may face regulatory pressures and a weakened market standing.

Here’s what effective federal rules around autonomous driving vehicles could look like, according to a former DOT inspector general

LLOYD LEE 2-3-2025

The US has many state laws that autonomous vehicle (AV) companies must follow, and the federal government is not keeping up with regulations. Former DOT inspector general Eric Soskin suggested the government could develop federal guidelines to help. Companies like Waymo and Tesla face different state rules, complicating efforts to adopt AV technology. Soskin emphasized the need for performance-based standards, data sharing for cybersecurity, safety features for failures, and a fair liability system to support the growth of autonomous vehicles. The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association has proposed a federal policy framework to accelerate AV development.

JAELYN CAMPBELL 1-15-2025

With less than a week remaining in office, President Biden’s administration has finalized new regulations banning Chinese vehicles from the U.S. market, citing national security concerns and a push for economic independence. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo announced that the ban will prohibit Chinese automakers from testing autonomous vehicles on U.S. roads and restrict the use of Chinese hardware and software in American vehicles. Automakers including GM, Toyota, and Hyundai have raised concerns, noting the need for additional time to secure alternative suppliers. The bans are set to take effect in 2027 for software and 2029 for hardware. Enforcement will fall on President-Elect Donald Trump, who has proposed incentives for foreign carmakers to establish manufacturing plants in the U.S., stating, “[I]f China and other countries want to sell cars here, they’re going to build plants here.”

Here’s How Honda’s Self-Driving AI Partner Plans to One-Up Tesla

EMILY FORLINI 1-13-2025

At CES, Honda showcased new electric vehicles (EVs) claiming they would have better self-driving capabilities than current Teslas, thanks to a partnership with Helm. AI. Honda, which doesn’t have a Level 2 system in the US, aims to introduce Level 3 self-driving technology. Helm. AI uses advanced generative AI to efficiently train models without real-world data. Honda’s self-driving system would allow drivers to engage in other tasks while the car manages complex situations. The company is also developing a powerful AI chip with Renesas and faces challenges from federal regulations on autonomous driving. The Trump administration might loosen some rules, but the balance between innovation and public safety is still uncertain.

Electric Vehicle Innovation on Display at CES

SALVATORE SALAMONE 1-14-2025

EV technologies recently showcased at CES offer a preview of what is to come in the near future. Notable new developments include Aptera Motors’ solar electric vehicle, featuring four solar panels and a lightweight carbon fiber body, allowing up to 40 miles of solar-powered driving daily. Honda previewed its 0 Series EVs equipped with “eyes-off” driving capabilities, aiming for production by 2026. Autonomous driving was a major focus, with companies like May Mobility and John Deere exploring applications beyond passenger cars, including agriculture. The trend towards software-defined vehicles was evident, with AI and advanced driving features enhancing performance and passenger experiences. The event underlined a shift in consumer preferences, with Deloitte’s 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study showing diminished brand loyalty as 54% of U.S. consumers intend to switch brands for better value, suggesting significant opportunities for automakers offering desired features.

Waymo and Swiss Re Analyse Safety Benefits of Autonomous Vehicles

TIANA MAY 1-14-2025

A recent study by Swiss Re, a reinsurance company, compared the safety performance of Waymo autonomous vehicles to both human drivers and advanced human-driven vehicles equipped with the latest driver assistance technologies. Analyzing claims data from 25.3 million miles driven autonomously by Waymo’s robotaxis, the study revealed an 88% reduction in property damage claims and a 92% reduction in bodily injury claims compared to human drivers. When compared to vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Waymo’s autonomous vehicles showed an 86% reduction in property damage claims and a 90% reduction in bodily injury claims. Overall, the findings indicate that autonomous vehicles experience significantly fewer serious collisions than human drivers, with Waymo’s robotaxis rarely being found at fault in incidents they were involved in. A pre-print copy of the study can be accessed here.

Tesla recalling 239,000 vehicles in U.S. over rearview camera failures

LORA KOLODNY 1-10-2025

Tesla is recalling about 239,000 electric vehicles in the U. S. because their rearview cameras might fail. This affects the 2024-2025 Model 3 and Model S sedans, and the 2023-2025 Model X and Model Y SUVs. Tesla has issued an over-the-air update to fix some camera issues. Last year, Tesla had 16 recalls affecting 5. 14 million vehicles. The company received 887 warranty claims but reported no accidents related to the camera failures. Tesla will replace computers for other vehicles facing similar issues at no cost.

NHTSA Proposes National Voluntary Framework for Autonomous Vehicle Oversight

JEFFREY M. STEFAN II 1-10-2025

NHTSA has proposed a voluntary national framework called the Automated Vehicle Safety, Transparency, and Evaluation Program (AV STEP) to enhance safety and transparency for vehicles with ADS. Entities with operational control of these vehicles can apply to participate based on whether their ADS requires human oversight. The approval process includes a safety evaluation and independent assessment, with ongoing reporting obligations for participants regarding vehicle operations and incidents. AV STEP also introduces two exemption pathways for ADS equipped vehicles, providing regulatory flexibility alongside existing exemption processes. This initiative builds upon previous NHTSA efforts, including the Voluntary Safety Self-Assessment and a Standing General Order for reporting collisions involving advanced driver assistance systems. The proposal will be open for public comment for 60 days following publication. Feedback from the industry may influence the final outcome as it progresses.