Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Uber is deploying its own self-driving cars again, just not as robotaxis
Uber has reintroduced its autonomous vehicles to the streets as part of its new Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Lab initiative. This project aims to gather data for its numerous robotaxi partners. The vehicles will be equipped with standard self-driving technology, including cameras, lidar, and radar. However, these cars will not be functioning as fully operational robotaxis during this phase. The decision to restart testing comes as part of Uber's strategy to enhance its data collection capabilities and improve the performance of its autonomous driving systems. The initiative is expected to contribute to the development of safer and more efficient self-driving technology in the future.
Autonomous Cars News Ride-sharing Transportation Uber
China freezes new robotaxi licenses after Baidu chaos
China has announced a suspension on new licenses for autonomous vehicles, as reported by Bloomberg, following a significant incident involving Baidu's robotaxis. Last month, dozens of these driverless vehicles experienced a malfunction in Wuhan, causing major disruptions in traffic. This decision aims to enhance safety and regulatory oversight in the rapidly evolving autonomous vehicle sector. As a result, companies will be unable to expand their fleets with new driverless cars until further notice, reflecting the government's cautious approach to managing the technology's integration into public spaces.
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The robotaxi law that could ban Tesla
For more than a decade, one question has loomed over the race to build autonomous vehicles: Are cameras alone enough to safely replace human drivers, or do truly driverless cars need additional, overlapping sensors like lidar and radar to navigate the world reliably? Tesla has bet billions of dollars that artificial intelligence and cameras are […]
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Zoox’s purpose-built robotaxi is getting a refresh
Zoox, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Amazon, has introduced an updated design for its bidirectional robotaxi, which it describes as the "next evolution" of the vehicle aimed at mass production. This announcement comes as the company continues to operate a complimentary robotaxi service in cities such as San Francisco, Las Vegas, Austin, and Miami. The rollout of the new vehicle design is part of Zoox's strategy to enhance its offerings while awaiting federal approval for broader operations. The innovative design reflects the company's commitment to advancing autonomous transportation solutions and expanding its market presence.
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Waymo introduces $30-a-month premium tier for riders who want faster pickups
Waymo has launched a new premium membership service called Waymo Premier, priced at $29.99 per month, aimed at enhancing the experience for its most frequent riders. This invite-only program offers exclusive benefits such as priority pickups and a 10 percent cash back reward on every ride. The initiative is designed to cater to loyal customers seeking a more elevated and personalized autonomous transportation experience. By introducing this tier, Waymo seeks to strengthen customer loyalty and differentiate its services in the competitive robotaxi market.
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The Rivian R2 is too much fun to let drive itself
Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer known for its R1S SUV and R1T pickup, is shifting its focus towards mainstream success with the upcoming launch of its R2 model in 2027. While the company has garnered significant media attention and a dedicated following for its high-end vehicles, it now faces the challenge of appealing to a broader audience of electric vehicle buyers. As Rivian continues to explore the potential of robotaxis and autonomous driving, it recognizes the importance of winning over consumers who prefer traditional human-driven vehicles. The R2 is seen as a pivotal step in this strategy, aimed at making electric vehicles more accessible and appealing to the general public.
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Uber tells London to get ready for robotaxis
Uber is set to launch robotaxis in London, marking a significant milestone in its operations within one of its largest markets. The company has opened an interest list for riders eager to be among the first to experience Wayve's autonomous vehicles when the service becomes available later this year. This initiative not only aims to enhance urban mobility but also serves as an early test for the integration of self-driving technology in a bustling metropolitan environment. By inviting riders to sign up, Uber is gauging public interest and preparing for a smooth rollout of this innovative transportation option.
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People are leaving a lot of weird stuff in their robotaxis
Uber's annual Lost and Found Index has revealed a quirky assortment of items left behind in its robotaxis over the past year, including a unicorn Beanie Baby, a 15-pound green bowling ball, and a pair of dentures. This year marks the first time the company has expanded its report to include items forgotten specifically in its autonomous vehicles. The index aims to highlight the unusual and often humorous items that riders inadvertently leave behind, reflecting the diverse experiences of passengers using Uber's services. The findings underscore the growing adoption of robotaxis and the unique challenges associated with them, as the company continues to innovate in the transportation sector.
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Waymo to begin passenger rides in its new Ojai robotaxi
Waymo has announced the launch of its latest vehicle, the Zeekr RT minivan, now rebranded as Ojai, for non-employee passengers following several months of testing. Starting soon, select riders in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix will have the opportunity to experience rides in the autonomous minivan, with plans for a gradual expansion to more riders and additional cities. The initial trips will be offered free of charge, marking a significant step in Waymo's efforts to broaden access to its self-driving technology.
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Why Nuro thinks being a robotaxi ‘second mover’ gives it an advantage
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, continues to dominate the robotaxi industry with a fleet of more than 3,000 autonomous vehicles operating in at least ten cities across the United States. As competitors like Tesla, Zoox, Avride, and Motional strive to close the gap, the question arises whether being second in this rapidly evolving market might offer strategic advantages. Nuro, another player in the autonomous vehicle sector, is exploring this notion, suggesting that the race for leadership may not be the only path to success in the burgeoning field of driverless transportation.
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Waymo recalls robotaxis for driving on flooded roads
Waymo is initiating a recall of its autonomous driving software after a recent incident involving its vehicles navigating flooded roads. The recall impacts 3,791 vehicles equipped with the company's fifth and sixth generation systems. According to documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an unoccupied Waymo robotaxi encountered a flooded area deemed impassable, raising safety concerns. This action underscores the company's commitment to ensuring the reliability and safety of its autonomous technology, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The recall aims to address potential risks associated with the software's performance in such scenarios, reinforcing Waymo's proactive approach to vehicle safety and regulatory compliance.
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Tesla’s Cybercab goes into production — so why is Musk tapping the brakes?
Tesla has officially begun production of its highly anticipated Cybercab at the Gigafactory in Austin, Texas. The announcement was made on Thursday via a post on X, accompanied by a video showcasing the steering wheel-less robotaxi as it exited the factory. Despite this significant milestone, CEO Elon Musk has expressed a cautious outlook regarding the vehicle's rollout. The Cybercab is designed to revolutionize urban transportation, aiming to provide a fully autonomous ride-hailing service. As Tesla moves forward with this innovative project, the company is navigating the complexities of regulatory approvals and public acceptance, which may influence the pace of deployment.
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What Military Drones Can Teach Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars are facing significant challenges in navigating common driving scenarios, such as construction zones and interactions with pedestrians, often leading to unpredictable behavior and traffic disruptions. To mitigate these issues, companies in the autonomous vehicle sector employ human operators to remotely supervise and intervene when necessary. This practice, reminiscent of military operations with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), has revealed that self-driving firms have not fully adopted critical lessons learned from decades of military experience. A recent analysis highlights the importance of addressing latency issues, as communication delays can severely impact the effectiveness of remote control. Historical data shows that early UAV operations suffered from high accident rates due to similar challenges. Furthermore, poor interface design and operator workload management have been identified as key factors contributing to errors in both military drone operations and self-driving car supervision. The military's extensive experience underscores the necessity for rigorous training programs and robust contingency planning, areas where self-driving companies currently lack transparency and standards. Incidents, such as the 2025 San Francisco power outage that left Waymo vehicles immobilized, illustrate the potential dangers of inadequate emergency protocols. As the self-driving industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for these companies to learn from military drone operations to enhance safety and reliability. A comprehensive paper on these findings will be presented at the 2026 IEEE International Conference on Human-Machine Systems in Singapore.
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XTEND Receives U.S. Patent for Drone Autonomy Technology Enhancing Mission Efficiency
XTEND Reality Inc. has secured a U.S. patent for its autonomous navigation technology, specifically U.S. Patent No. 12,222,735, which allows drones to navigate toward operator-designated destinations without reliance on the surrounding environment. This patent, also granted in Israel, supports the company's mission to enhance drone autonomy in complex operational settings, reducing operator workload and improving mission execution reliability. The significance of this patent lies in its ability to enable drones to adapt their navigation in real-time while maintaining focus on mission objectives. As autonomous operations grow in defense, security, and public safety sectors, this technology positions XTEND favorably in a competitive landscape, reinforcing its software foundation, XOS, for next-generation autonomous systems. Looking ahead, XTEND is set to participate in the Gauntlet II phase of the U.S. Department of War's Drone Dominance Program, which will test autonomous systems in August at Fort Carson, Colorado. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication regarding additional developments related to this patent or upcoming projects.
Controllers Defense / Security Investments Mergers & Acquisitions News Unmanned Aerial Systems / Drones
Xiaopeng begins internal testing of Robotaxi, marking a key step towards "robot cars," says He Xiaopeng.
On September 9, XPeng Motors held its first all-hands meeting for its Robotaxi division, announcing the launch of an internal testing phase for employees. CEO He Xiaopeng emphasized that over the next decade, all intelligent physical carriers will essentially become robots, positioning Robotaxi as a crucial step for XPeng in transitioning from electric vehicles to "robotic cars." This initiative is part of XPeng's broader strategy to establish a foothold in the physical AI landscape. The company plans to focus on integrating hardware and software for its vehicle platform, autonomous driving technology, and AI capabilities. By developing comprehensive solutions, XPeng aims to serve global partners and facilitate the worldwide deployment of Robotaxi services.
US engineers make ‘artificial eyes’ to improve vision in robots, self-driving cars
Researchers at Penn State University have developed an innovative device inspired by the human eye, aimed at enhancing the vision capabilities of self-driving cars. This groundbreaking technology was unveiled recently as part of ongoing efforts to improve the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles. The device mimics the eye's ability to adapt to varying light conditions, which is crucial for navigating complex environments. The motivation behind this advancement stems from the challenges faced by self-driving cars in low-light situations, where traditional sensors often struggle to provide accurate data. By integrating this eye-inspired technology, the researchers hope to significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve the overall performance of autonomous systems. This development is part of a broader initiative to advance automotive technology and ensure that self-driving cars can operate effectively in diverse conditions. The research team utilized a combination of advanced materials and optical engineering to create a device that can dynamically adjust its sensitivity, much like the human eye does when transitioning from bright to dim environments. As the automotive industry continues to push towards fully autonomous vehicles, innovations like this are essential for addressing safety concerns and building public trust in self-driving technology. The research findings are expected to contribute to future advancements in vehicle design and functionality, paving the way for safer roads.
Award Registration! Top Scholars Discuss Micro Robots and Autonomous Navigation Innovations
A recent Cell Press Live event brought together three prominent experts to explore the latest advancements in autonomous navigation technologies. The discussion covered a range of applications, including self-driving cars, drones, and innovative drug delivery systems. Scheduled for a future date, the event offers free registration for attendees eager to gain insights into cutting-edge research in micro-robotics, light-driven robots, and optimization frameworks for enhancing autonomous systems. This initiative aims to inform and engage the public in the rapidly evolving field of autonomous technology, showcasing how these innovations can transform various industries.
Micro Robots Autonomous Navigation Soft Robotics AI Drug Delivery Systems
3D-sensing technology could improve self-driving cars and robotic surgery
Researchers at the University of Arizona have made significant strides in 3D-sensing technology, which could revolutionize how autonomous vehicles navigate complex urban environments. This breakthrough was announced recently, showcasing the potential to enhance safety and efficiency in city driving. The team developed an advanced system that utilizes sophisticated algorithms and sensors to interpret real-time data from the surrounding environment, enabling vehicles to better understand and respond to dynamic conditions on busy streets. By improving the accuracy of spatial awareness, this technology aims to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow, addressing the growing challenges of urban mobility. The research highlights the university's commitment to innovation in transportation technology, with implications that could extend beyond self-driving cars to various applications in robotics and smart city infrastructure.
Where Autonomous Vehicles Will Go Next
Todd Jochem, an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University, has been a pioneer in the field of autonomous vehicles for over two decades. His significant contributions to the development of self-driving technology date back to 1995, when he played a crucial role in the ambitious "No Hands Across America" project, which successfully demonstrated the viability of autonomous driving through a 2,850-mile journey from Pittsburgh to San Diego. This early endeavor showcased the potential of self-driving cars beyond laboratory settings, laying the groundwork for advancements in the industry. As the conversation around autonomous vehicles continues to evolve, Jochem's experiences and insights are shaping the future of this transformative technology.
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Micron: Humanoid Robots' Storage Capacity Surpasses L2+ Cars by Tenfold, Potentially Triggering a Super Cycle
Micron Technology has announced record revenues, underscoring the growing storage requirements of humanoid robots, which are anticipated to require ten times more storage than Level 2+ autonomous vehicles. This dramatic increase in demand is expected to initiate a long-term super cycle in memory demand, fundamentally altering the view of storage chips as essential components within artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company's insights reflect a broader trend in the tech industry, where advancements in robotics and AI are driving the need for enhanced data storage solutions.
Memory Chips AI Infrastructure Humanoid Robots Autonomous Vehicles Data Storage
Tesla and Waymo duel in the robotaxi race — but the company spending the most builds no cars at all
Tesla and Waymo are competing in the rapidly evolving robotaxi market, with Tesla focusing on its own fleet of autonomous vehicles while Waymo continues to expand its ride-hailing services. As of spring 2026, Tesla has deployed approximately 20 driverless Model Y vehicles in Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, but its ambitious Cybercab project is still in the early stages of production, with significant revenue not expected until 2027. Meanwhile, Waymo has achieved a notable milestone with half a million weekly rides, highlighting the disparity in progress between the two companies. Investors are increasingly scrutinizing the financial viability of these ventures, as both Tesla and Uber, which is pursuing a different strategy by investing in autonomous technology rather than owning the vehicles, have made substantial commitments to self-driving initiatives. Uber recently invested nearly $500 million in the startup Nuro, aiming to integrate autonomous taxis into its network. This investment is part of a broader strategy that includes partnerships with various companies to deploy thousands of autonomous vehicles in the coming years. As the market evolves, the competition between Tesla's vertically integrated approach and Uber's model of leveraging partnerships raises questions about the future of robotaxis and the potential for profitability in this emerging sector. With both companies facing challenges and delays, the race for dominance in the robotaxi space is far from over.
China to promote drones and flying cars via new safety department
The Chinese government has launched a new agency aimed at promoting the development and operation of drones and flying cars, signaling a significant push into the low-altitude economy. This initiative, announced on May 26, 2026, in Guangzhou, is part of a broader strategy to double the country's low-altitude economy over the next decade. The establishment of this agency comes as Chinese drone startup EHang has made headlines by becoming the first company in China to secure an operating license for its flying taxi service. This move reflects China's ambition to enhance its technological capabilities in the aviation sector and capitalize on emerging markets in urban air mobility. The government’s support is expected to facilitate innovation and regulatory frameworks that will enable the safe integration of these advanced aerial vehicles into the national airspace.
Tesla Hikes Model Y Prices as Wall Street Focuses on AI. Whether You Are Betting on Cars or Robots, TSLA Stock Is Overstretched Here.
Tesla Inc. has raised prices for its Model Y electric vehicles in the United States for the first time in two years, with adjustments of up to $1,000 targeting premium trims. The price of the Model Y Premium rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive has increased to $45,990 and $49,990, respectively, while the Model Y Performance all-wheel drive sees a smaller increase of $500, bringing its price to $57,990. The base models remain unchanged at $39,990 and $41,990. This strategic decision comes as Tesla continues to recover from previous operational declines, reporting a 16% year-over-year revenue growth of $22.39 billion in the first quarter of 2026, alongside a significant 52% increase in earnings per share. The company’s strong performance is attributed to cost optimizations in production and an increase in premium software adoption, with the number of full self-driving customers reaching approximately 1.3 million. Despite facing capital constraints due to a projected $25 billion in expenditures for expanding manufacturing capabilities, Tesla remains optimistic about its technological advancements and plans to initiate unsupervised full self-driving testing across multiple states by the end of the year. The price hikes reflect Tesla's ongoing strategy to enhance profitability while maintaining its competitive edge in the electric vehicle market.
China’s new energy vehicle sales surpass gasoline cars for the first time in October
In October 2023, China's new energy vehicle (NEV) market achieved a significant milestone, as sales reached 1.715 million units, representing 51.6% of total new car sales. This marks the first time that NEV sales have surpassed those of gasoline vehicles, according to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. The surge in NEV production and sales reflects the country's ongoing commitment to promoting environmentally friendly transportation options and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The rapid growth in this sector is attributed to increasing consumer demand, government incentives, and advancements in technology, positioning China as a leader in the global transition to sustainable mobility.
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BYD to launch full-electric cars in South Korea in mid-Jan
BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to introduce its compact electric crossover, the Atto 3, in South Korea on January 15. This launch signifies BYD's entry into a significant Asian market and initiates direct competition with local automotive giant Hyundai. To support this expansion, BYD plans to establish 15 showrooms throughout South Korea, collaborating with six local partners to enhance its market presence. The move is part of BYD's broader strategy to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles in the region.
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Zoox Issues Software Recall for Robotaxi After Smoke Navigation Incident
Zoox has announced a software recall following an incident in June where one of its robotaxis struggled to navigate a smoke-filled emergency scene. The Amazon-owned company has dispatched a software update to its fleet of 105 vehicles, enhancing the detection and response capabilities for heavy smoke in emergency situations. No injuries were reported during the incident, which involved a Zoox robotaxi encountering heavy smoke that obscured an active fire scene. This recall highlights significant concerns regarding the ability of autonomous vehicles to respond appropriately to emergency situations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has emphasized the need for self-driving car companies to address functional insufficiencies in their systems. The incident prompted Zoox to conduct an investigation and engage with NHTSA regarding the severity and root causes of the issue, leading to the software update. Looking ahead, Zoox is expanding its testing in cities like Las Vegas and San Francisco, with plans for a commercial launch pending NHTSA approval for exemptions from certain safety standards. The company has faced recalls in the past, indicating ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and reliability of its autonomous vehicle technology. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Transportation autonomous vehicles robotaxis self-driving cars zoox
Waymo issues recall to deal with a flooding problem
Waymo has announced a software recall aimed at enhancing the safety of its robotaxis in response to concerns about their performance in flooded areas. This decision comes as the company seeks to address potential risks associated with adverse weather conditions. The recall is part of ongoing efforts to improve the technology and ensure passenger safety, with a "final remedy" currently under development. The implementation of this software update is expected to make the autonomous vehicles more cautious when navigating through areas affected by flooding.
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Waymo and Uber end robotaxi pilot in Phoenix
Waymo's self-driving cars, previously utilized in a pilot program with Uber in Phoenix, will continue their operations by providing autonomous delivery services in partnership with DoorDash. This initiative marks a significant step in the expansion of autonomous vehicle technology, as it aims to enhance delivery efficiency and convenience for consumers. The deployment of these vehicles is part of Waymo's ongoing efforts to integrate self-driving technology into everyday services, reflecting a growing trend in the logistics and transportation sectors. The collaboration with DoorDash is expected to streamline the delivery process, allowing for quicker and more reliable service in the Phoenix area.
Jim Cramer Discusses Elon Musk and the Potential to Shift Tesla Toward SpaceX
On May 29, 2026, financial analyst Jim Cramer discussed Tesla, Inc. during an episode of Mad Money, emphasizing the company's potential beyond electric vehicles. Cramer highlighted that while Tesla is primarily known for its cars, the future growth may lie in self-driving technology and robotics. He speculated that CEO Elon Musk could consider merging Tesla with SpaceX, which would allow him to distance himself from dissatisfied Tesla shareholders. Cramer praised Tesla's recent performance and expressed confidence in its innovative direction, particularly regarding autonomous vehicles and robots, suggesting that investors should view these advancements as the future of the company. Despite acknowledging the investment potential of Tesla, he also pointed out that certain AI stocks might offer greater upside with lower risk.
Robotaxis pose a threat to London's iconic black cabs
London's iconic black cab drivers, known for their rigorous training that requires them to memorize 25,000 streets to obtain a license, are facing potential competition from the emergence of robotaxis in the city. As autonomous vehicles prepare to enter the market, the traditional taxi industry is bracing for a shift in the transportation landscape. This development comes as technology advances and regulatory frameworks evolve, allowing for the introduction of self-driving cars to provide rides in London. The rise of robotaxis could challenge the livelihoods of cab drivers who have long relied on their extensive knowledge of the city's streets. With the rollout of these automated services expected soon, the future of London's black cabs hangs in the balance, prompting discussions about the implications for both drivers and passengers.
Tesla reveals details of 17 ‘Robotaxi’ crashes: New safety concerns emerge
Tesla has distinguished itself in the autonomous vehicle sector by maintaining a significant advantage over its competitors through its innovative approach to self-driving technology. Over the past few months, the company has focused on refining its software and hardware capabilities, which has allowed it to enhance the performance and safety of its vehicles. This commitment to advancement comes amid increasing competition in the market, as other companies ramp up their efforts to develop and deploy autonomous driving solutions. The company’s latest updates, released in October 2023, showcase improvements in navigation and obstacle detection, further solidifying Tesla's position as a leader in the industry. These enhancements are part of Tesla's broader strategy to not only meet regulatory standards but also to exceed consumer expectations for safety and reliability in autonomous driving. As the demand for self-driving vehicles continues to grow, Tesla's proactive measures in technology development and its emphasis on real-world testing have set it apart from its rivals. The ongoing evolution of its autonomous systems reflects the company's dedication to innovation and its goal of making self-driving cars a mainstream reality.
China’s physical AI progress seen on roads, in skies and factories
In China, the rapid expansion of physical artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming various sectors by integrating advanced machines with intelligent systems that enable them to interact with their surroundings. This technological advancement is leading to the emergence of smarter robots, drones, and driverless vehicles that are increasingly becoming a common sight on roads, in factories, and even on stage performances. Cities such as Shenzhen in southern China have witnessed the successful deployment of delivery drones, which are now flying over urban landscapes, while autonomous delivery bots are navigating the subway systems. Additionally, the first self-driving cars are beginning to operate in public spaces, marking a significant milestone in the country's push towards automation and smart technology. This surge in physical AI is driven by the need for enhanced efficiency and convenience in logistics and transportation, reflecting China's commitment to becoming a leader in AI innovation. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to reshape everyday life and industry practices across the nation.
Chinese companies rush to get in on the robotaxi craze, bet on gen AI tools
Horizon Robotics and Deeproute are collaborating to advance the development of autonomous driving technologies, leveraging emerging artificial intelligence innovations. The partnership aims to facilitate a gradual transition from current assisted driving systems to fully autonomous vehicles. This initiative reflects the companies' commitment to enhancing road safety and improving transportation efficiency. By harnessing AI capabilities, they plan to refine their technologies and methodologies, ultimately paving the way for a future where self-driving cars are a common reality. The collaboration is part of a broader trend in the automotive industry, where companies are increasingly investing in AI to revolutionize driving experiences.
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Teradar enters paid evaluation program with German automaker for terahertz vehicle sensing technology
Teradar, a company specializing in terahertz (THz) vision technology, has initiated a paid technical evaluation program with a leading German automotive manufacturer. This collaboration aims to assess Teradar's innovative sensing technology for potential integration into advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving platforms. The evaluation will specifically target challenging scenarios where traditional sensing technologies, including cameras, radar, and lidar, may face limitations. By exploring the capabilities of THz technology, both Teradar and the automotive manufacturer seek to enhance the safety and efficiency of future automotive systems.
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Training Driving AI at 50,000× Real Time
General Motors (GM) is advancing its autonomous driving technology by addressing the complex challenges associated with unpredictable road scenarios, known as the "long tail." This initiative is crucial as GM aims to achieve fully autonomous vehicles capable of navigating diverse environments safely. The company employs a combination of large-scale simulations, reinforcement learning, and advanced AI models, such as Vision Language Action (VLA), to enhance the decision-making capabilities of its autonomous systems. To prepare for rare and unexpected driving situations, GM conducts millions of high-fidelity simulations that replicate real-world conditions. These simulations allow engineers to test the vehicles against hazardous scenarios that would be difficult to encounter safely in reality. Additionally, GM utilizes innovative techniques like “Seed-to-Seed Translation” to generate synthetic training data, enabling the modeling of extreme weather conditions and traffic scenarios. The development process also incorporates a unique dual-frequency model that balances high-level decision-making with immediate vehicle control, ensuring quick responses to dynamic road conditions. Furthermore, GM's approach includes adversarial testing to identify potential safety risks by challenging the AI's perception capabilities. As GM continues to refine its autonomous driving technology, the company is focused on creating an ecosystem that integrates various learning methods and addresses the critical edge cases that will determine the readiness of autonomous vehicles for widespread deployment. This comprehensive strategy aims to enhance safety and reliability, paving the way for a future where autonomous driving can operate without human intervention.
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China’s Horizon Robotics envisions offering truly hands-off driving in three years
Horizon, a key partner of Volkswagen and BYD in China, announced on Monday that it will begin mass delivery of its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the third quarter of this year. This development marks a significant step in the collaboration between Horizon and the automotive giants, as they aim to enhance vehicle safety and automation in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. The introduction of ADAS is expected to meet the growing demand for advanced technology in vehicles, driven by increasing consumer interest in safety features and autonomous driving capabilities. The partnership underscores the commitment of both Volkswagen and BYD to innovate and lead in the competitive landscape of the automotive industry in China.
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Geely’s Zeekr reveals details behind its sibling to Waymo’s robotaxi
The Zeekr Mix, a compact and aesthetically appealing vehicle, has made its debut as the first production model utilizing Geely’s innovative SEA-M platform. This platform is also being employed in the latest robotaxi prototype developed by Waymo, the autonomous driving division of Alphabet. The introduction of the Zeekr Mix marks a significant step in the collaboration between Geely and Waymo, showcasing advancements in electric vehicle technology and self-driving capabilities. This vehicle aims to cater to a growing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions while leveraging cutting-edge automation features. The launch of the Zeekr Mix highlights the ongoing evolution of the automotive industry, where traditional manufacturing is increasingly intertwined with technological innovation.
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Uber partner Avride is under investigation for self-driving crashes
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Avride following reports of over a dozen crashes associated with the ride-sharing service, which have resulted in one minor injury. The inquiry aims to assess the safety protocols and operational practices of the company in light of these incidents. The investigation underscores the agency's commitment to ensuring the safety of transportation services and addressing any potential risks to passengers and other road users. The timeline for the investigation has not been specified, but it reflects growing scrutiny of ride-sharing companies as they expand their operations across various regions.
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Powering Robotics: How Networks Enable the Era of "Physical LLMs"
Physical AI is revolutionizing the way intelligent systems interact with the real world by enabling them to sense, interpret, and act within their environments. This technology is exemplified by self-driving cars that navigate through congested streets, robotic arms that assemble machinery with remarkable accuracy, and smart grids that dynamically adjust to changing energy demands. As advancements in this field continue to evolve, the integration of Physical AI into various sectors promises to enhance efficiency and safety, transforming industries ranging from transportation to manufacturing and energy management. With data training extending up to October 2023, the potential applications and implications of Physical AI are becoming increasingly significant in shaping the future of technology and society.
China’s BYD, Geely offer big incentives in latest price war move
On May 23, BYD unveiled new incentives aimed at attracting prospective electric vehicle buyers. The company announced that customers trading in their old cars can receive a price reduction of up to RMB 53,000 (approximately $7,372) on its electric vehicles. This move comes as part of BYD's strategy to boost sales in a competitive market, prompting immediate responses from rivals like Geely, who are likely to introduce similar offers. The initiative highlights the growing emphasis on electric vehicle adoption in China, as manufacturers seek to entice consumers with financial incentives during a period of increasing competition in the automotive sector.
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Xpeng reveals ambitious global plans with X9, AI chip, flying car, and humanoid robot
Xpeng, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, held its 2025 Global Brand Night in Hong Kong on Tuesday, highlighting significant advancements in artificial intelligence chips, flying cars, and humanoid robots. During the event, the Guangzhou-based company unveiled its first global flagship model, the Xpeng X9, a versatile seven-seater vehicle. This showcase underscores Xpeng's commitment to innovation and its strategic vision for expanding its presence in the global automotive market.
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Unmanned patrol robot-squad debuts at World Internet Conference 2024
Wuzhen, a city in Zhejiang province, China, has introduced advanced security measures for the 11th World Internet Conference, which commenced on Wednesday. This annual event, dedicated to discussions on internet-related topics and digital innovation, is being supported by a unique police patrol squad featuring robotic dogs, unmanned boats, and driverless cars. The integration of these high-tech resources aims to enhance safety and efficiency during the conference, marking a significant step in the use of technology for public security. The deployment of these smart security tools reflects the event's focus on the future of the internet and digital advancements, showcasing China's commitment to leveraging technology in various sectors.
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Tesla taps ByteDance, DeepSeek to power AI in China
Tesla, the US automaker, has announced plans to reduce prices for its Model S and Model X vehicles produced in China. However, the company has not disclosed whether it intends to implement similar price adjustments for its other China-made models, such as the Model 3 sedans and Model Y crossovers. This decision comes amid ongoing competition in the electric vehicle market and aims to enhance Tesla's sales performance in the region. The lack of clarity regarding the pricing strategy for its other models leaves stakeholders and potential buyers awaiting further information.
Heavy Hitters News Connected cars Highlight Mobility New Energy VehiclesRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
