SHRUTI SINHA | Telematics Wire | 11/19/2025

Hyundai Motor Group has launched a dedicated cybersecurity command center to monitor and respond to cyber‑threats across its connected‑vehicle ecosystem. The unit will identify vulnerabilities, oversee real‑time incident response, and streamline governance across its global affiliates. The move comes amid a massive increase in the company’s security investments: this year’s spend on information‑security initiatives has climbed by nearly 170% compared to 2022, and the dedicated personnel have grown to over 260.

With vehicles becoming more software‑defined and connected, Hyundai positions this command center as foundational, aiming to protect everything from over‑the‑air updates and data flows to perimeter safety in vehicles themselves.

Tesla obtains permit for its ‘Robotaxi’ with a safety driver in Arizona

FRED LAMBERT | Electrek | 11/19/2025

Tesla has obtained a Transportation Network Company (TNC) permit in Arizona, allowing it to operate a paid ride‑hailing service statewide under its robotaxi branding. However, the permit does not authorize fully driver‑less vehicles; all operations must include a human driver or safety monitor for now. Analysts say the strong demand is driven by better affordability and mature technology: many used EVs are available in the mid‑$20,000 range and offer advanced features and lower running costs compared to similarly priced used gas cars.

Tesla To Phase Out Chinese Made Parts For US Cars Within Two Years

STEVE HANLEY | Clean Technica | 11/18/2025

Tesla is directing its suppliers to phase out Chinese‑sourced components for cars built at its U.S. factories, with plans to complete the shift within the next year or two. According to reports, the company has already begun replacing certain parts and aims ultimately to source components outside China. This shift reflects growing geopolitical and trade‑risk pressures, especially U.S. tariffs and supply‑chain disruptions, and represents a major recalibration of Tesla’s North American sourcing strategy.

How Tesla’s Technology Inspired EV Innovation at Ford

CHARLIE KING | EV Magazine | 11/16/2025

Ford CEO Jim Farley says that a close inspection of rival EVs, particularly those from Tesla, Inc. and leading Chinese manufacturers, served as a shock to Ford’s engineering approach. Farley admitted that dissecting a Tesla Model 3 and Chinese electric vehicles revealed “shocking” gaps in Ford’s own design, including longer wiring looms and heavier systems, driving a major strategic shift.

Farley said this realization accelerated the creation of Ford’s dedicated EV division, Model E, and underscored the need to innovate faster, streamline vehicle architecture, and embrace a global EV mindset. “Take on the hardest problems as fast as you can and sometimes do it in public because you’ll solve them quicker that way,” stated Farley.

Tesla releases detailed safety report after Waymo co-CEO called for more data

SEAN O’KANE | Tech Crunch | 11/14/2025

Tesla has released its most detailed safety report to date for its Full Self‑Driving (Supervised) (FSD) software, following public calls for greater transparency from Waymo’s co‑CEO, Tekedra Mawakana. According to the data, in North America FSD‑users drive roughly 5 million miles between major collisions (versus the national average of ~699,000 miles) and about 1.5 million miles between minor collisions (versus ~229,000 miles) based on Tesla’s calculations.

The report also clarifies how Tesla defines “major” and “minor” collisions and discloses that the data will be updated quarterly, marking a shift toward greater methodological clarity and accountability in how the company presents its driver‑assistance performance.

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.

ZACHARY VISCONTI 3-10-2025

Tesla’s rollout of its FSD in the UK faces significant delays due to new regulatory challenges. The UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) has proposed stricter rules that limit FSD capabilities to highway maneuvers, requiring drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel, contrary to earlier drafts that allowed hands-free driving in more complex situations. These changes arise from safety concerns regarding the impact of autonomous systems on driver behavior and situational awareness. Tesla has successfully launched FSD features in China and Mexico but is hindered by regulatory barriers in Europe, potentially delaying full deployment until 2028. Experts, including former Tesla officials, urge for reforms in type-approval frameworks to better accommodate emerging technologies. Meanwhile, CEO Elon Musk continues to advocate for FSD approval in upcoming EU sessions.

Japan’s Nissan tests driverless vehicles in city streets filled with cars and people

YURI KAGEYAMA 3-10-2025

Nissan’s driverless technology, utilizing 14 cameras, nine radars, and six LiDar sensors, showcases Japan’s effort to catch up in the autonomous driving race, led by companies like Waymo in the U.S. Despite being home to top automakers, Japan has lagged behind China and the U.S. in autonomous vehicle development. In a recent demonstration in Yokohama, Nissan’s vehicle operated at a maximum speed of 25 mph, with remote monitoring to ensure safety. The technology, currently rated Level 2, aims for Level 4 autonomy by 2029 or 2030, requiring no human oversight. With a shrinking population creating driver shortages, Japanese companies are exploring autonomous solutions, though challenges remain, including public expectations for high safety standards and the complexities of urban deployment.

Tesla to expand cabin radar support to more models

KARAN SINGH 3-8-2025

Tesla has begun rolling out an update for recent Model Ys, activating cabin radar and introducing first-row occupant sensing, replacing traditional seat sensors. This technology improves passenger size detection, crucial during accidents, and will extend to other recent models. A key feature, Child Presence Detection, aims to reduce fatalities caused by leaving children in parked vehicles. The radar can differentiate between adults and kids, adjusting airbag deployment, detecting heart rates, and notifying owners via the Tesla app if a child is left inside. Emergency services can also be alerted automatically. While current updates focus on Model Ys, plans to extend cabin radar features to Model 3s and Cybertrucks are underway. Rear-seat sensing is expected to launch in late 2025, with potential updates for Model S and X also on the horizon.

Second-hand Tesla’s flood the market as Elon Musk faces British backlash

JAMES TITCOMB 3-7-2025

British drivers are selling Tesla’s at record rates, with 4,822 second-hand models listed in February, up 36% from December. This increase follows growing competition among electric car makers and political controversies involving Elon Musk. Second-hand Tesla prices have fallen, and new sales in the UK rose by 21%. Interest in Tesla’s has declined, partially due to Musk’s politics and competition from other brands. Some customers have canceled orders because of his views, while others cite a lack of new models.

Hyundai pairs up with Yandex spinoff Avride to develop robotaxis

KIRSTEN KOROSEC 3-5-2025

Hyundai Motor Company and autonomous vehicle startup Avride have formed a partnership to develop autonomous vehicle technology specifically for robotaxis. Avride will enhance its fleet with Hyundai IONIQ 5 vehicles, assembled at Hyundai’s new Metaplant America in Georgia and integrated with Avride’s technology. These vehicles will launch later this year in Dallas as part of an Uber-accessible robotaxi service. This collaboration adds to Avride’s recent partnerships and signifies Hyundai’s strategy to expand beyond in-house efforts, complementing its existing relationship with Motional, an autonomous vehicle startup backed by Hyundai. Despite challenges faced by Motional, Hyundai remains committed to advancing Level 4 autonomy and aims to scale up to 100 autonomous IONIQ 5 vehicles by 2025, promoting innovations in mobility technology.

Volkswagen’s cheapest EV ever is the first to use Rivian software

KIRSTEN KOROSEC 3-5-2025

Volkswagen has introduced the ID EVERY1, a small four-door hatchback EV set to launch in 2027 with a starting price of 20,000 euros ($21,500). It will feature software and architecture from Rivian as part of a $5. 8 billion joint venture. Another model, the ID. 2all, will be priced at 25,000 euros and available in 2026. Both cars will target the European market. The ID EVERY1 will use a new software architecture for ongoing updates. The partnership aims to reduce development costs and improve technology scaling. The ID EVERY1 is a concept with a top speed of 130 km/h and a range of at least 250 kilometers.

• Toyota pushes back electric vehicle production plans in America (Detroit Free Press, October 7, 2024)

  Toyota has long been cautious about the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, and the current EV market slowdown seems to validate its skepticism. However, despite the slump, the global auto industry continues to shift toward electrification, and all manufacturers, including Toyota, will ultimately need to adjust – albeit at a slower pace than originally anticipated.

  Though there were reports of Toyota’s three-row EV SUV launching by the end of 2025, production has been delayed until at least 2026. Meanwhile, Lexus has canceled its plans for a new electric vehicle as EV sales continue to decline in the U.S. Despite the downturn, Toyota remains committed to producing 1.5 million EVs annually by the end of 2026, with plans to introduce seven new EV models to the U.S. market.

• Google’s Waymo Chooses Hyundai Ioniq 5 for Autonomous Driving Fleet (MSN, October 6, 2024)

  Hyundai and Waymo partner to integrate autonomous driving technology into Hyundai vehicles, starting with the sixth generation Waymo Driver in the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Vehicles will be produced at Hyundai’s Georgia factory with autonomous pre-installation, ensuring they are ready for self-driving technology. Waymo plans to add the Ioniq 5 to its Waymo One fleet by 2025, expanding its operations in select U. S. regions. This collaboration allows Hyundai to enter the autonomous vehicle sector while growing Waymo’s fleet, previously supplied by Chrysler and Jaguar. The latest Waymo Driver features advanced hardware and software for enhanced detection capabilities in various conditions.

•  Autonomous vehicles could render personal auto insurance obsolete by 2044, new report finds (CBT News, October 4, 2024)

  A new Morningstar report suggests that self-driving cars might significantly diminish the need for personal auto insurance within 20 years. By 2044, if AVs are widely adopted, liability could shift from drivers to manufacturers, transitioning insurance to product liability. Full adoption of Level 4 or 5 autonomy, where cars drive without human intervention, could make personal insurance obsolete by 2060. Currently, most vehicles have Level 2 automation requiring driver assistance. Companies like Waymo and Cruise are pioneering Level 4 capabilities with region-specific robotaxis. Morningstar projects that AVs could reach 80% market penetration within 7 to 18 years, depending on adoption speed. Insurance may remain unaffected until Level 4 autonomy prevails, but a 10% AV penetration rate by 2035 could begin reshaping the industry, potentially eliminating some insurers by 2043 as AV penetration grows.

• Toyota shows ‘an engine reborn’ with green fuel despite global push for battery electric cars (AP News, May 28, 2024)

  While many manufacturers in the auto industry are pushing for electric vehicles, Toyota has announced “an engine reborn,” at a Tokyo hall on Tuesday, offering compact engines that run on green fuels, like hydrogen and bioethanol. In hybrids, Toyota plans for the electric motor to become the main driving force, with the new “reborn” engine to take a lesser role. 

  Toyota’s Chief Executive Koji Sato stated that the “engine is optimized for the electrification era,” with goals to meet emissions standards and to push for “carbon neutrality” globally. Officials for the Japanese automaker have repeatedly stated that a complete shift to electric vehicles is not economically possible due to the millions of jobs in vehicle production at stake. “The carbon neutrality the world is aspiring toward isn’t likely attainable for decades to come. It’s going to be a long marathon race,” stated business professor at Waseda University, Takahiro Fujimoto.

• Major robotaxi firms face federal safety investigations after crashes (The Washington Post, May 24, 2024)

  The self-driving vehicle industry faces increased scrutiny as federal investigations into Amazon’s Zoox, Google’s Waymo, and GM’s Cruise highlight potential flaws linked to numerous collisions. NHTSA is probing incidents involving rear-end collisions with Zoox vehicles, erratic behavior by Waymo robotaxis, and an ongoing investigation into Cruise after a pedestrian accident in San Francisco. Despite the industry’s rapid expansion, with around 40 companies testing autonomous vehicles in California and significant investments aiming to revolutionize transportation, these incidents challenge claims of superior safety compared to human drivers.

  Matthew Wansley, an expert on automotive technologies, notes that the period of unrealistic expectations is over, with companies under increased scrutiny. This scrutiny comes as NHTSA uses crash data to identify potential safety risks in autonomous driving technologies. As incidents involving self-driving cars accumulate, the NHTSA faces growing pressure to preemptively regulate rather than react post-incident.

• Hyundai Motor and Plus Announce Collaboration to Demonstrate First Level 4 Autonomous Fuel Cell Electric Truck in the U.S. (Morningstar, May 22, 2024)

  Hyundai Motor and autonomous driving software leader Plus have debuted the first Level 4 autonomous Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck in the U.S. at the ACT Expo. This collaboration aims to enhance road safety and freight efficiency. The truck, a Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cell model, is equipped with Plus’s Level 4 SuperDrive™ system and is undergoing initial autonomous driving assessments in the U.S. By integrating Plus’s advanced autonomous driving technology, Hyundai seeks to provide safer, more efficient, and sustainable solutions in trucking. The XCIENT Fuel Cell truck has already proven its reliability in real-world applications across eight countries since its introduction in 2020.

  “We are thrilled to collaborate with Hyundai Motor Company on this important initiative to create more sustainable and safe transportation options. A decarbonized future with autonomous hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks that also improve safety and efficiency is one that Plus is proud to support with our cutting-edge autonomous driving technology,” said Shawn Kerrigan, COO and Co-Founder at Plus.