ANDREW J. HAWKINS | The Verge | 1/13/2026

Mercedes-Benz is pausing its Drive Pilot feature, a Level 3 automated driving system, due to low demand and high production costs. The new S-Class will not include this system when it arrives. Drive Pilot allowed hands-free driving at up to 40mph but faced limitations, such as specific operational conditions and legal restrictions.

The company plans to introduce a new Level 2++ feature called Drive Pilot Assist this year. Mercedes may combine Drive Pilot with this system in the future as technology and regulations evolve.

New York governor clears path for robotaxis everywhere, with one notable exception

KIRSTEN KOROSEC | Tech Crunch | 1/13/2026

New York Governor Kathy Hochul plans to introduce legislation to legalize robotaxis in the state, excluding New York City. The proposal aims to expand the state’s autonomous vehicle pilot program, allowing limited deployment of commercial self-driving cars outside the city. Companies must prove local support and adhere to safety standards. More details will be in the governor’s executive budget, to be released on January 20.

Ford’s $30K EV Truck Will Have the World’s Cheapest Electric Motor

MARNUS MOOLMAN | Auto Blog | 1/11/2026

Ford is aiming to shake up the EV pickup market with a new electric truck priced around $30,000, made possible in part by what it calls the world’s cheapest electric motor. This move follows the recent discontinuation of the Ford F-150 Lightning. By aggressively cutting component costs and simplifying design, Ford hopes to deliver an affordable, mass-market EV truck by around 2027, narrowing the price gap with gas-powered pickups and better positioning itself against low-cost Chinese competitors.

Lucid’s CEO Gets Candid About The EV Mistake Automakers Won’t Talk About

PATRICK GEORGE | Inside EVs | 1/11/2026

Lucid Motors’ interim CEO Marc Winterhoff used a CES appearance to argue that the EV industry has historically focused too much on sustainability and environmental messaging and not enough on the performance, space, and real-world advantages electric vehicles can offer. Winterhoff said this marketing misstep has made it harder to connect with mainstream buyers and that companies need to better explain the inherent strengths of EV technology. To illustrate his point, he pointed to Lucid’s Gravity SUV as an example of an EV that competes on specs and driving experience with high-end internal-combustion rivals, not just emissions reductions.

Maine Gov. Mills vetoes bill to weaken car repair data access law

HENRY WELCH | PIRG | 1/9/2026

Maine Gov. Janet Mills vetoed a bill that would have diluted the state’s 2023 automotive right-to-repair/data access law, preserving stronger data access rights for vehicle owners and independent repair shops. The veto came after opposition from independent mechanics and repair advocates. This is a state-level fight over who controls access to telematics and operational vehicle data, a proxy for broader national debates on data ownership, competition, and privacy. 

DANA NUCCITELLI | Yale Climate Connections | 12/9/2025

The global EV market is accelerating while U.S. sales have stalled at around 10% since 2023, even as China and Europe continue to surge ahead. China now sells more hybrid and electric cars than gas-powered ones, and global EV sales are expected to reach 50% by the early 2030s. Despite earlier federal incentives, recent policy changes have slowed U.S. momentum, though upcoming lower-cost EV models may help.

Overall, EV adoption is projected to quadruple worldwide by 2030, with China firmly positioned to lead the transition and its associated economic and environmental benefits. 

Tesla Launches New Dashcam Tool for Viewing Vehicle Telemetry Data

KARAN SINGH | Not a Tesla App | 12/9/2025

Tesla has released an official “Dashcam Tool” in its 2025 Holiday Update that gives owners the ability to view full telemetry data embedded in dashcam videos. Instead of just seeing what the cameras captured, owners can now load clips into a simple web-based viewer that shows frame-by-frame data such as vehicle speed, steering angle, brake use, accelerator position, GPS coordinates, and autopilot (or FSD) status.

This effectively turns Tesla dashcam clips into a black-box recorder, making it far easier for owners to analyze what happened in a crash or near-miss with hard data rather than relying on visual estimation alone. And because the tool runs locally in a browser (no cloud upload required), all sensitive data remains on the owner’s computer, preserving privacy.

Amazon robotaxi service Zoox to start charging for rides in 2026, with ‘laser focus’ on transporting people, not deliveries, says cofounder

AMANDA GERUT | Fortune | 12/8/2025

Amazon’s robotaxi company, Zoox, plans to begin charging for rides in Las Vegas in early 2026 and in the San Francisco Bay Area next year, pending regulatory approvals. CEO Jesse Levinson highlighted the focus on transporting people rather than packages, citing the significant challenges involved. Zoox vehicles are designed specifically for autonomy and prioritize passenger comfort. Though revenues won’t be substantial for a few years, Levinson believes the opportunity for growth is considerable.

A new way to charge

Land Line Media | 12/8/2025

A stretch of highway in Indiana has become the first in the U.S. to wirelessly charge heavy-duty electric trucks while they drive, a major breakthrough for commercial EV transport. The roadway, part of U.S. Highway 52/231, uses a patent-pending system developed by Purdue University and implemented by Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), and was successfully tested with a truck from Cummins. Proponents say this wireless-charging highway could ease the cost and logistical burdens of charging commercial electric fleets, potentially removing the need for long stops or heavy onboard batteries.

Tesla Introduces Early Eyes-Off Feature;

Allows to Text and Drive

KARAN SINGH | Not a Tesla App | 12/5/2025

Tesla’s newest FSD update now allows limited texting while driving, easing its driver-monitoring requirements and permitting short phone interactions based on traffic conditions. But Tesla accepts no liability for crashes or misuse, placing full legal responsibility on the driver—unlike certified Level 3 systems such as Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot, which have defined safety and liability frameworks. Although Tesla may add indicators to signal when driver attention is required, no such protections currently exist. Drivers are urged to stay fully alert, as FSD still does not outperform human drivers and distracted use could lead to significant safety and legal consequences.

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.

Zoox has announced that it is launching robotaxi test vehicles in Washington, DC, marking its eighth US city for testing. The company aims to offer paid rides in the future and has begun with free rides in Las Vegas. DC’s unique street layout and seasonal weather present testing challenges. Initially, Zoox will use retrofitted SUVs with safety drivers to map the area. The city is seen as a key location for expanding sustainable transportation options.

Tesla Is About to Launch a New Vehicle. It May Be a Game-Changer (Daniel Sparks, 09-28-25)

Tesla is working on a new, more affordable vehicle expected to launch in the second half of 2025, aiming to expand its market and support its autonomy goals. CEO Elon Musk indicated this model may be a simplified version of the Model Y, potentially priced around $30,000. A lower-priced Tesla could boost sales by addressing affordability gaps in the electric vehicle market. Although this new vehicle might not create a change as significant as the Model 3, it may enhance demand related to affordability and self-driving capabilities.

Autobrake slashes rear-end crash risk associated with red light safety cameras (IIHS, 09-25-25)

A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems reduce rear-end crashes caused by sudden stops at red light safety cameras. While these cameras decrease dangerous right-angle crashes, they can increase minor rear-end collisions. The study suggests that as more vehicles are equipped with AEB, the safety benefits of red light cameras will improve. Despite their advantages, only 343 U. S. communities use these cameras, partly due to opposition citing increased rear-end crashes. The research highlights the need to reassess the effectiveness of safety measures as vehicle technology evolves.

California police pull over a self-driving Waymo for an illegal U-turn, but they can’t ticket (Janie Har, 09-30-25)

During a DUI checkpoint in San Bruno, California, police officers stopped a Waymo robotaxi after it made an illegal U-turn. But when they approached it, there was no human driver to cite, leaving them unable to issue a moving-violation ticket. The department even joked, “our citation books don’t have a box for ‘robot’.” Officials contacted Waymo to flag the incident as a “glitch” and hope to prevent repeats. Under current law, only human drivers can be cited; however, a new California statute set to take effect in 2026 will allow officers to issue notices for autonomous vehicle violations directly to manufacturers or operators.

Tesla hikes lease prices as US electric vehicle tax credit expires (Reuters, 10-01-25)

Following the expiration of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit on September 30, Tesla has increased lease rates across its U.S. vehicle lineup. Monthly payments for the Model Y now range from $529 to $599 (up from $479–$529), while Model 3 leases have jumped to $429–$759 (from $349–$699).

Though the sticker prices of the vehicles remain unchanged, the removal of the tax credit has effectively made Tesla leases more expensive for consumers. The move underscores how deeply the tax incentive was integrated into pricing strategies—and it raises questions about how demand will hold once costs rise.

Amazon-owned Zoox is seeking federal approval to deploy up to 2,500 driverless vehicles in the U.S., asking regulators for exemptions from certain longstanding safety requirements, such as those mandating windshield defrosters, traditional braking systems, and manual controls. The fully autonomous vehicles, which lack steering wheels and pedals, are purpose-built for robotaxi service. If granted, the exemptions would mark a significant step toward large-scale deployment of control-less autonomous vehicles and reflect growing regulatory momentum in favor of next-generation mobility solutions.

Goodbye to the $7,500 EV tax credit. What’s that mean for EV practices? (Chris Isidore, 09-23-2025)

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States are expected to decline after the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV buyers expires on October 1. This tax credit, introduced in 2022 to promote EVs, will end due to new legislation. Sales rose 7% in 2024 but recently slowed, prompting consumers to rush to buy before the expiration. Automakers may lower prices or offer incentives to maintain demand. However, many buyers still plan to purchase EVs due to their performance and environmental benefits, despite the loss of the tax credit.

Tesla gains ADOT approval to test vehicles in Arizona (Amy Edelen, 09-23-2025)

Tesla has secured approval from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to begin testing autonomous vehicles on public roads in the Phoenix metropolitan area with safety drivers behind the wheel. The company submitted self‑certification documentation on September 19, confirming that its test vehicles will comply with all state and federal motor vehicle rules and regulations. Tesla emphasized that only trained employees or contractors will operate the vehicles during this testing phase. It’s important to note that the ADOT approval covers testing only; Tesla has not yet applied for permission to run autonomous ride‑hailing (robotaxi) services.

Three crashes in the first day? Tesla’s robotaxi test in Austin (Jonathan M. Gitlin, 09-22-2025)

Tesla’s new robotaxi test in Austin has already recorded three crashes over just 7,000 miles of operation, an unusually high rate compared to rivals. Two of those incidents involved another vehicle rear-ending the Tesla, though overall Tesla’s crash rate is “orders of magnitude worse” than Waymo’s in comparative deployment.

Stellantis detects breach at third-party provider for North American customers (Reuters, 09-21-2025)

Stellantis reported unauthorized access to a third-party service affecting its North American customer service. Only basic contact details were exposed, with no financial or sensitive data involved. The incident is under investigation, and impacted customers are being informed.

Lucid Sells Out Gravity Inventory Vehicles in 24 Hours (Claudio Afonso, 09-22-2025)

Lucid Motors’ Gravity SUVs were briefly available for immediate delivery but sold out quickly, prompting questions from investors. The company clarified this was not a demand issue but a small batch produced to avoid delays. Lucid has improved manufacturing and predicts higher vehicle volumes this year.

General Motors is reviving its self-driving car efforts with a crucial shift in strategy: abandoning robotaxi ambitions in favor of developing autonomous vehicles for personal buyers. The company is bringing back ex-Cruise employees while growing its engineering teams, led by Sterling Anderson, GM’s newly appointed product development head who previously spearheaded Tesla’s Autopilot program. Additionally, GM is conducting real-world testing with lidar-equipped vehicles operated by human drivers on public streets, collecting critical data to advance fully autonomous technology that will ultimately deliver “eyes-free, hands-free” driving capabilities.

Wait times for this Chinese EV are so long that the CEO is telling buyer to consider rivals (Electrek, August 12, 2025)

Xiaomi’s new YU7 electric SUV, positioned to undercut Tesla’s Model Y with a longer range and a lower price, has sparked a frenzy in China, receiving a staggering 240,000 orders within just 18 hours of launch. But while the demand has exceeded expectations, production constraints mean customers may have to wait up to a year or more for delivery. In a statement, CEO Lei Jun acknowledged the delays and encouraged potential buyers in urgent need of a vehicle to consider alternatives such as XPeng’s G7, Li Auto’s L8, or even Tesla’s Model Y. While the YU7 has quickly established itself as a competitive force in the crowded Chinese EV market, Xiaomi’s open acknowledgment of its limitations reflects a transparent and pragmatic approach to customer expectations.

Tesla is hiring robotaxi test drivers in New York City, but company hasn’t applied for permits (CNBC, August 12, 2025)

Tesla has launched a hiring campaign in Queens for “vehicle operator, Autopilot” roles, tasking operators with driving engineering vehicles, collecting audio and video data, troubleshooting software, and filing detailed reports. Despite this ambition, the city’s Department of Transportation confirms that Tesla has not applied for the permits required to test autonomous vehicles on NYC streets, a legal step that remains unfulfilled as Tesla presses forward with robotaxi preparation. Concurrently, Tesla is running limited robotaxi operations in Austin and San Francisco with safety personnel inside but aims to scale its autonomous ride-hailing footprint, potentially covering “half of the U.S. population by year-end,” according to Elon Musk, pending regulatory approvals.

Tesla shuts down Dojo, the AI training supercomputer that Musk said would be key to full self-driving (TechCrunch, August 7, 2025)

Tesla is shutting down its Dojo supercomputer project, ending in-house chip development for driverless tech. Lead engineer Peter Bannon is leaving, and remaining team members will be reassigned within Tesla. The move follows the departure of about 20 employees who started their own AI firm, DensityAI, building chips and hardware for robotics, AI agents, and automotive use. This shift marks a major change in Tesla’s AI strategy, moving away from Musk’s vision of Dojo as the core of full self-driving and robotaxi ambitions. Musk recently emphasized Tesla’s focus on Cortex, a new AI supercluster in Austin. Tesla plans to rely more on external partners like Nvidia, AMD, and Samsung for chips, including a $16.5 billion deal with Samsung for AI6 inference chips. This decision comes as Tesla’s board offers Musk a $29 billion pay package to maintain his leadership and push AI initiatives forward.

NHTSA Issues First-Ever Demonstration Exemption to American-Built Automated Vehicles (US Dept. of Transportation, August 6, 2025)

The NHTSA granted Zoox an exemption for its driverless vehicles, marking the first-ever exemption for American-built vehicles under the expanded Automated Vehicle Exemption Program (AVEP). This change, part of Secretary Duffy’s Innovation Agenda, levels the playing field for U.S. companies by allowing them to participate in AVEP, previously limited to foreign AVs. The program simplifies the exemption process, promoting U.S. technology and safety by enabling companies to test noncompliant vehicles on U.S. roads. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy praised the initiative as a dual victory for safety and innovation, positioning the U.S. as a leader in autonomous vehicle development. Chief Counsel Peter Simshauser emphasized the efficiency of the expanded review process. As part of the exemption, Zoox must alter vehicles to indicate non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. NHTSA is also closing its investigation into Zoox’s self-certification.

Elon Musk teases new Tesla ‘Full Self-Driving Supervised’, but manage your expectations (Electrek, August 6, 2025)

Elon Musk has announced a new update for Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) which promises “10x improvements.” However, past experiences suggest caution in managing expectations. In a recent post, Musk mentioned enhancements like a tenfold increase in parameters and better video compression, slated for public release next month if testing succeeds. Although Tesla’s FSD for consumer vehicles hasn’t shown notable progress this year, focusing instead on its Robotaxi service in Austin, shareholders hope this new update leverages lessons learned from the Robotaxi deployment. In June, Musk initially teased a “4x increase” in parameters for this update, now expanding it to “10x.” However, previous promises, like the disappointing FSD v12.5 update claiming a “5x increase,” resulted in less reliable performance, making it prudent to remain cautious about these new claims.

Tesla, Elon Musk sued by shareholders over Robotaxi claims (Jonathan Stempel — August 5, 2025)

Elon Musk and Tesla were sued by shareholders for securities fraud, accusing them of hiding the risks of their self-driving vehicles. The lawsuit followed a test showing dangerous behavior of robotaxis, leading to a drop in Tesla’s stock price. Shareholders seek damages from April 2023 to June 2025. Also, Tesla was recently found partially responsible for a fatal crash involving its self-driving software.

Trump’s deregulation of AI and autonomous vehicles: Revolution or risk? (Lauren Fix — August 6, 2025)

On January 23, 2025, Trump signed Executive Order 14179, “Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence,” signaling a dramatic shift away from the Biden administration’s cautious regulatory stance on AI. The directive calls on federal agencies to dismantle regulations viewed as obstacles to innovation, most notably in autonomous vehicle development. It streamlines NHTSA’s exemption process and could open the door for self-driving cars to operate without traditional safety features like steering wheels or pedals.

Proponents say the move will accelerate U.S. dominance in emerging sectors such as transportation, healthcare, and logistics, potentially saving thousands of lives and cutting costs through automation. But critics warn that the sweeping rollback comes with serious risks. Key concerns include the elimination of mandatory crash data reporting for AVs and the removal of protections against algorithmic bias. The order may also clash with existing state-level laws in places like California and Colorado, raising fears of a fragmented regulatory landscape that could erode public trust and compromise safety.

Ford opens massive EV development center in Long Beach, California (Susan Carpenter — August 5, 2025)

After a 65-year absence, Ford Motor is making a major West Coast comeback with the opening of a massive 250,000-square-foot Electric Vehicle Development Center in Long Beach, its first significant Southern California presence since closing an assembly plant in 1959. The repurposed aviation depot near LAX now houses 350 engineers, designers, and technicians, with plans to expand to 450 staff. The high-tech campus features design studios, fabrication workshops, EV labs, and specialized garage space for next-generation projects spanning electric drivetrains, software, and battery development.

Ford’s California team is laser-focused on developing a low-cost, midsize electric pickup truck set to launch in 2027, a crucial vehicle that could determine the automaker’s competitiveness in the mass-market EV space. The move signals Ford’s determination to attract top-tier engineering talent from California’s tech corridor while reinforcing its electrification commitment, even as the industry grapples with rising tariff pressures and supply chain challenges.

Tesla Wants To Bring Its Robotaxis To New York. Good Luck With That (Rob Stumpf — August 3, 2025)

Tesla’s Robotaxi service, after launching in California, is expanding by hiring “vehicle operators” in several U. S. cities, including Brooklyn, New York. Unlike competitors like Waymo, Tesla is rapidly expanding its service, though it still lacks full autonomous permits. The push raises safety concerns, especially in busy areas.

Lyft to partner with Chinese AI firm Baidu to bring robotaxis to Europe in 2026 (Euronews — August 4, 2025)

Robotaxis may be available in Germany and the UK on the Lyft app as soon as next year. Lyft is partnering with Chinese AI firm Baidu to introduce autonomous vehicles, pending regulatory approval. Baidu aims to scale its fleet in Europe, while Lyft expands its operations after acquiring the FREENOW app.

Lucid softens full-year production forecast as EV maker misses second-quarter estimates (Michele Luhn — August 5, 2025)

Lucid Motors posted mixed Q2 results, missing revenue expectations with $259.4 million and reporting a wider-than-expected 24-cent loss per share. The EV maker also lowered its 2025 production forecast to 18,000–20,000 units, citing rising tariffs and trade tensions. To offset supply chain challenges, Lucid is shifting to domestic sourcing—aiming to boost long-term stability despite near-term margin pressure. The company is betting on its upcoming Gravity SUV, a $50,000 midsize EV, and a newly announced six-year robotaxi partnership with Uber and Nuro, backed by a $300 million Uber investment.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly playing a major role in modern transportation, particularly in automated vehicle systems and driver assistance technologies. While some companies are pushing toward full automation at Levels 4 and 5, others are focusing on perfecting Level 2 systems as a stepping stone towards more advanced capabilities. AI offers some advantages over human drivers, particularly in perception and real-time decision-making, which can lead to improved road safety. One company taking an incremental approach is Nauto, founded by Dr. Stefan Heck. Rather than waiting for full autonomy, Nauto integrates AI into vehicles already on the road today. “Our philosophy was, let’s support humans first, and then let’s gradually increase the degree of autonomy,” said Heck. Nauto’s system uses AI to simultaneously monitor road conditions and driver behavior, detecting potential risks and issuing warnings before a potential crash occurs.

Tesla’s Europe sales plunge 49% on brand damage, rising competition (Arjun Kharpal – May 27, 2025)

European sales of Tesla vehicles dropped 49% in April, with 7,261 cars sold, while overall electric car sales rose. Tesla’s reputation has declined due to CEO Elon Musk’s political activities, and sales fell nearly 40% from January to April. Consumers prefer hybrids, and Tesla lacks hybrid options. Investors question Musk’s commitment, but he plans to lead Tesla for five more years.

First ever ‘robotaxi’ trials with passengers begin in Germany (Ciaran Daly – May 27, 2025)

The KIRA project has launched real-world testing of Level 4 autonomous vehicles in Germany, allowing live passengers to book and ride in self-driving shuttles operating in the towns of Langen and Egelsbach. The Nio ES8 electric SUV’s are equipped with LIDAR sensors, cameras, and Mobileye software. The technology enables the vehicles to navigate independently of a driver and operate at speeds of up to 130 km/h (approximately 80 mph). While the vehicles drive autonomously, a human safety driver

will remain on board during the trial phase to monitor vehicle operations. Kaweh Mansoori, Hessen’s Minister of Economy, Energy, Transport, Housing, and Rural Areas, praised the initiative as a “blueprint for the mobility of the future.”

Humans step up as Texas steps back from autonomous trucking (Jo Borrás – May 24, 2025)

Texas technology firm Aurora initially celebrated launching the first fully autonomous freight service in the US but has now put human operators back behind the wheel. This decision follows a request from truck manufacturer PACCAR due to concerns about prototype parts.

CEO Chris Urmson emphasized that despite having a human in the driver’s seat, the Aurora Driver will remain responsible for all driving tasks. This change coincides with Texas lawmakers reviewing House Bill 4402, which would mandate human operators in autonomous vehicles. Teamsters President Brent Taylor supports this law to protect local jobs from automation.

Tesla’s head of self-driving admits ‘lagging a couple years’ behind Waymo (Fred Lambert – May 21, 2025)

Tesla’s head of self-driving, Ashok Elluswamy, admitted that Tesla’s autonomous program is about “a couple of years” behind Waymo, but believes Tesla’s lower costs will allow faster scaling. In a rare candid interview, he highlighted that Tesla’s approach is much cheaper but offers “equal quality,” acknowledging that Waymo has already achieved Level 4 autonomous rides, while Tesla remains limited to Level 2 with driver supervision. Despite Tesla’s claims of leading autonomy, this admission reveals the company’s ongoing gap in fully autonomous technology. Tesla produces more cars annually than Waymo, benefiting from economies of scale, though it mainly sells vehicles without the full self-driving package.

Musk says Tesla’s self-driving tests will be geofenced to ‘the safest’ parts of Austin (Sean O’Kane – May 20, 2025)

Tesla’s robotaxi service debut in Austin, Texas next month will start with restricted areas deemed “the safest,” according to CEO Elon Musk. The vehicles will avoid complex intersections unless highly confident of safe navigation or reroute around them. This cautious approach marks a shift from Musk’s earlier claim of creating a general-purpose self-driving system. Tesla plans to use geofencing—limiting vehicles to specific zones—which Musk hinted at during an earnings call in April. The company will remotely monitor around 10 Model Y SUVs with the “unsupervised” Full Self-Driving software, without safety operators inside. Musk emphasized starting small, confirming

performance before expanding. Unlike companies like Waymo, which have staffed operation centers providing remote guidance, Tesla’s method involves minimal human oversight during early trials, reflecting its “paranoid” safety approach.

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.

JOEY KLENDER 5-6-2025

Tesla has officially launched its most affordable trim of the best-selling Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y, priced just under $45,000 before federal tax credits. This latest model offers an impressive 357 miles of range – 30 additional miles over the AWD version – and accelerates from 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds. Tesla has also introduced several design upgrades, including acoustic glass for a quieter cabin, enhanced heated and ventilated seating throughout, and improved door closures. Tesla has begun accepting orders for the new Model Y with deliveries expected within the next 5 weeks.

US House Is Likely to Kill EV Tax Credit, Speaker Johnson Says

ARI NATTER 5-6-2025

Congress is likely to end the EV tax credit soon, despite arguments that it creates jobs and lowers emissions. House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned that killing the credit seems more probable. Similar reductions have occurred in Germany and China. In the U. S., cutting the tax credit while EV sales grow poses challenges, especially with tariffs on imported vehicles. Automakers may sell EVs at a loss. If the credit is eliminated, a significant disruption in the EV market is expected. Buyers should consider purchasing an affordable EV now.

Waymo Robotaxis Are Better Than Human Drivers. But Not Everywhere

SUVRAT KOTHARI 5-5-2025

Robots have become part of our daily lives, including driverless taxis now operating in many cities. A study from Waymo shows that their self-driving cars are safer than human drivers, with lower crash rates found through over 56. 7 million miles of data. Key safety improvements include a 96% reduction in injuries at intersections and 91% fewer airbag deployments.

Waymo’s cars are proving to be safer. They need to drive more miles to confirm long-term safety statistics. Upcoming tests in cities with diverse weather will be important. Waymo has been more transparent about its data compared to Tesla, which has faced skepticism about its safety claims. Driverless taxis are expected to grow, with Uber and Lyft supporting the trend.

Uber partners with China’s Pony AI to deploy self-driving taxis in key Middle East market

REUTERS 5-6-2025

On Tuesday, Uber announced a new partnership with China-based autonomous vehicle developer Pony AI, aiming to boost its robotaxi fleet through integration with Pony AI’s ride-hailing platform. The collaboration is part of Uber’s broader strategy to stay competitive against rivals like Lyft and Tesla, both of which are ramping up their own autonomous vehicle and robotaxi initiatives.

Before going fully driverless, the robotaxis will launch with onboard safety operators. The initial rollout is planned for the Middle East later this year, with global expansion on the horizon.

Waymo and Toyota partner to go after Tesla with personal self-driving vehicles

FRED LAMBERT 4-30-2025

Waymo and Toyota have partnered to challenge Tesla in the realm of personally owned self-driving vehicles. While Waymo leads the autonomous driving market with around 250,000 paid autonomous rides weekly, Tesla is only now beginning similar services in Austin. Despite Tesla’s lead in personally owned self-driving vehicles, it has yet to fulfill its promise of unsupervised self-driving capabilities in consumer vehicles. Meanwhile, Waymo and Toyota aim to integrate Waymo’s autonomous technology with Toyota’s vehicle expertise for next-generation personally owned vehicles. This collaboration could result in Waymo’s technology being embedded into Toyota’s consumer vehicles, paralleling Tesla’s ambition to license its self-driving technology to other automakers—a goal yet to materialize. Waymo also has a similar partnership with Hyundai, focusing initially on Hyundai vehicles for its ride-hailing fleet.

Uber strikes deal with May Mobility to deploy ‘thousands’ of robotaxis

ANDREW J. HAWKINS 5-1-2025

May Mobility, an autonomous vehicle operator focused on long-term transportation contracts, has partnered with Uber to deploy “thousands” of robotaxis across multiple US markets. The partnership will start in Arlington, Texas, at the end of 2025, initially with vehicles operated by safety drivers before transitioning to fully driverless. The companies plan to expand into additional cities next year. May Mobility currently owns a fleet of autonomous Toyota Sienna minivans and operates in geofenced areas like campuses and residential communities. The partnership with Uber is non-exclusive, as May also collaborates with Lyft, while Uber works with multiple AV firms, including Waymo and Motional. Unlike some, May emphasizes addressing municipal concerns and launching electric minibuses for larger capacity, aiming for deployment next year.