Nouvelles

Tesla has started testing driverless Model Y robotaxis in Austin without human monitors. While limited in scope, the move raises pressure on Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system as rivals like Waymo expand faster and at scale.

Rivian’s Autonomy and AI Day introduced a new hands-free driving system, lidar-enabled hardware for the R2, and a powerful AI voice assistant, outlining the EV maker’s broader strategy for next-generation autonomy and long-term software growth.

Automakers and mobility companies are rapidly reviving autonomous driving efforts, expanding testing, launching new systems, and focusing on personal and commercial applications. The next few years may bring the most significant changes yet.

Uber’s new robotaxi plan pairs Lucid’s Gravity SUV with Nuro’s autonomous tech, leveraging the EV’s built-in redundancy for faster deployment. A cheaper midsize Lucid platform may follow for larger-scale fleets.

Tesla claims its FSD system is close to approval in the Netherlands, but regulators say no commitment has been made. Europe’s stricter rules, unresolved timelines, and RDW’s pushback highlight major hurdles for Tesla.

Waymo is accelerating its robotaxi rollout with new testing in Minneapolis, Tampa and New Orleans, pushing its network toward more than 20 cities. The company leads U.S. autonomous ride-hailing as it prepares for major expansion.

Waymo plans to expand its driverless taxi service to five additional U.S. cities in 2026 while targeting 12 more markets ahead. The company grows amid rising competition from Zoox and Tesla and increased regulatory scrutiny.

Zoox has begun offering free robotaxi rides in San Francisco with its purpose-built autonomous shuttle that has no steering wheel or pedals. The service starts in a limited area through its Explorers program before wider expansion.