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Articles tagged with "autonomous-driving"

  • NIO's Record Global Deliveries Exceed Targets as European Market Develops - CleanTechnica

    NIO Inc. achieved a record-breaking global vehicle delivery milestone in September 2025, delivering 34,749 vehicles—a 64.1% increase year-over-year—bringing its cumulative deliveries to 872,785 units by the end of the third quarter. This growth was driven by its diversified product portfolio across three brands: the premium NIO brand (13,728 units), the family-oriented ONVO brand (15,246 units), and the high-end firefly brand (5,775 units). The company’s expanding lineup includes smart electric SUVs, sedans, and compact urban vehicles, all equipped with advanced intelligent driving technology and the NOMI AI assistant. NIO is aggressively expanding its presence in Europe, viewing the continent as a key pillar of its global strategy. Since June 2025, the company announced plans to enter five additional European countries between 2025 and 2026, adopting a hybrid multi-channel distribution model that combines direct-to-consumer sales with partnerships with established local

    electric-vehiclessmart-vehiclesNIOenergyIoTautonomous-drivingAI-assistant
  • Tesla's Affordable Model Y & 3 Disappoint, Is That All There Is? - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica critiques Tesla’s recent release of more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3, highlighting significant disappointments, especially in the U.S. market. Contrary to expectations, these models are not substantially cheaper than previous premium versions once tax credits are factored in. Notably, the U.S. Standard Model Y lacks standard Autosteer and Autopilot features, requiring an additional $8,000 or monthly fees for Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. Moreover, the U.S. version offers less range (36 miles fewer) and a downgraded interior while costing $2,500 more than a week earlier, making it less attractive to potential buyers. In contrast, the Standard Model Y launched in Europe has been better received due to larger price reductions (up to $12,800 less than the premium RWD version) and retention of Autopilot, despite a modest range decrease. This European version could broaden Tesla’s market by making the

    energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaautonomous-drivingautomotive-technologyclean-energyelectric-car-market
  • Westward Ho 2025 in Our Tesla Model 3 - CleanTechnica

    The article "Westward Ho 2025 in Our Tesla Model 3" by Fritz Hasler chronicles the author’s experiences traveling between his two homes—in Northern Wisconsin and Utah—using a Tesla Model 3 equipped with Full Self Driving (FSD) Supervised mode. Over six years and twelve trips covering 1,551 miles each way, Hasler, now 85, has relied heavily on FSD to ease the demands of long-distance driving, especially given his physical limitations from a past accident. The family often transports two e-bikes on a rear carrier, which became a focal point of a recent issue when the Tesla’s rear camera was obstructed, disabling FSD. After research and trial, Hasler discovered that taping over the camera lens with black electrical tape restored FSD functionality, despite the counterintuitive nature of this fix. The article also highlights a recurring challenge with FSD Supervised: the system requires the driver to maintain attention on the road and the control screen

    energyelectric-vehiclesTesla-Model-3Full-Self-Drivingebikesclean-transportationautonomous-driving
  • The Less Expensive, De-Contented Teslas Are Here - CleanTechnica

    The article discusses Tesla's introduction of lower-priced "Standard" versions of the Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, following the end of federal electric vehicle incentives in the US, which increased prices by $7,500 for many EVs. Tesla's Model Y Standard, priced at $39,900, is $5,000 cheaper than the previous rear-wheel-drive version and features a single motor, 321-mile range, 125 mph top speed, and 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.8 seconds. However, cost-cutting measures include cloth upholstery replacing faux leather, limited color options (primarily black interior), and the removal of certain features like the rear passenger screen, AM/FM radio, and advanced suspension dampers. Notably, the panoramic glass roof remains but is covered by a cloth headliner, potentially allowing future modification. Additionally, Tesla released Full Self Driving (FSD) Supervised Version 14.1, which offers new features such as selectable parking options

    energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaautonomous-drivingFull-Self-Drivingautomotive-technologyelectric-car-incentives
  • Self-driving trucks with 16.5-ton payload capacity to bolster US power

    The U.S. Army is set to enhance its heavy tactical vehicle fleet with the introduction of autonomous Palletized Load System (PLS) A2 trucks, developed by Oshkosh Defense under an $89 million contract awarded through the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) program. These self-driving trucks, capable of carrying payloads exceeding 16.5 tons, are designed to improve supply and equipment distribution in combat zones, particularly in challenging and contested environments. The PLS A2 features advanced technologies such as by-wire functionality for autonomous operation and active safety systems, which collectively aim to increase operational efficiency and soldier protection during complex missions. The PLS A2’s open architecture allows for future technology upgrades aligned with the Army’s transformation priorities, supporting multi-domain operations and sustainment across dispersed battlefields. Oshkosh Defense emphasizes the vehicle’s ruggedness and reliability, highlighting its hydraulic Load Handling System that enables rapid self-loading and unloading, thereby reducing personnel fatigue and mission downtime. The F

    robotautonomous-vehiclesmilitary-technologyheavy-duty-trucksOshkosh-Defenseautonomous-drivingtactical-vehicles
  • GAC Aion RT Somehow Costs $14,000 - CleanTechnica

    The newly launched GAC Aion RT electric sedan in China is notable for its remarkably low price range of approximately $14,030 to $17,400 (99,800–123,800 yuan), yet it offers impressive specifications typically seen in higher-end EVs. The higher trim features a 68.1 kWh CATL battery delivering a CLTC-rated range of 650 km (404 miles), while the base model comes with a 55.1 kWh battery providing 520 km (323 miles) of range. The car’s aerodynamic design, with a low drag coefficient of 0.208, contributes to its efficiency, and its styling is described as striking, inspired by a "velociraptor" look. Despite its budget price, the GAC Aion RT is equipped with advanced technology, including a lidar sensor, dual digital displays (an 8.88-inch driver instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen), wireless charging, and Nvidia’s

    energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologyfast-chargingsilicon-carbideautonomous-drivinginfotainment-systems
  • Tesla Working Hard To Get Cybertrucks Off Lots - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica highlights Tesla's ongoing efforts to clear inventory of its Cybertruck model, which is currently experiencing declining sales and accumulating on dealership lots. Tesla has been aggressively promoting the Cybertruck by offering multiple incentives, including one year of free Supercharging, a Luxe Package featuring Full Self-Driving (Supervised), Premium Connectivity, and Premium Service. Additionally, Tesla has pushed limited-time offers such as 0% APR financing through September 2025 to encourage quicker purchases. Despite these efforts, Cybertruck sales have steadily decreased over the past four quarters, dropping from 16,692 units in Q3 2024 to just 4,306 in Q2 2025. The article suggests that the Cybertruck has become a significant disappointment for Tesla, raising concerns about its impact on the company's finances. While some Tesla enthusiasts remain loyal to the vehicle, the broader market response has been underwhelming, leading to speculation about whether Tesla might pivot to producing a more conventional pickup truck,

    robotenergyelectric-vehiclesautonomous-drivingTeslaIoTsmart-transportation
  • The New Avatr 07 Is A Stunner - CleanTechnica

    The Avatr 07 is a striking new electric crossover priced starting at 219,900 yuan (approximately $30,920), offering a sporty design and advanced technology features typically found in higher-end vehicles. Developed through a collaboration between automaker Changan, battery leader CATL, and tech giant Huawei, the Avatr 07 is available as both a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Notably, it includes a LiDAR sensor enabling Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, an interactive Halo screen, and a futuristic interior highlighted by a large 35.4-inch 4K central display and a 15.6-inch driver monitor powered by Huawei’s HarmonyOS 5. In terms of performance and comfort, the Avatr 07 offers a range between 610 km (379 miles) and 650 km (404 miles) on a full charge for the BEV version, with the EREV variant providing an electric-only range of 245

    energyelectric-vehiclesautonomous-drivingLiDARbattery-technologyHuawei-HarmonyOSelectric-crossover
  • The First of Toyota's Many Mobility-as-a-Service Solutions Enters Production - CleanTechnica

    Toyota’s vision for electric mobility and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) solutions has been steadily evolving since its early conceptual presentations at the 2006 and 2017 Tokyo Motor Shows. Initially introduced as a stark, utilitarian “box on wheels,” the e-Palette concept embodied a flexible, multi-purpose vehicle designed to maximize urban mobility efficiency by serving diverse roles—such as shuttles, mobile stores, or medical clinics—throughout the day. This concept reflected Toyota’s broader ambition to reduce car idling time and promote shared, adaptable transportation solutions. Alongside this, Toyota has also pursued hydrogen fuel cell technology, exemplified by the Toyota Sora Fuel Cell Bus. By 2019, the e-Palette had progressed from concept to a functional prototype showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show and prepared for use in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This version incorporated real-world feedback, including accessibility features for Paralympians, and demonstrated practical application as an automated shuttle within the Olympic

    robotelectric-vehiclemobility-as-a-serviceautonomous-drivingToyota-e-Palettehydrogen-fuel-celltransportation-technology
  • The $100,000 Mistake: Why H1-B Barriers and Policy Rollbacks Shrink America’s Future - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica highlights the critical role the H1-B visa program has played in sustaining U.S. leadership in high technology over the past fifty years. H1-B visa holders, predominantly from India (65-75%), along with significant contributions from China, Canada, South Korea, the Philippines, and Eastern Europe, have been integral to innovation across multiple sectors including Silicon Valley tech firms, Wall Street quantitative modeling, semiconductor design, biotech, clean energy, and academia. These skilled immigrants have not only filled essential technical roles but also contributed to research, development, and executive leadership, fueling America’s competitive edge in global technology and innovation. However, recent policy changes, particularly the imposition of a $100,000 fee per new H1-B visa application introduced under the Trump administration, threaten this ecosystem. This surcharge disproportionately impacts startups and smaller companies that cannot afford such costs, forcing them to either hire remotely or leave positions unfilled. Larger firms may relocate talent abroad to avoid the fee,

    energyroboticsartificial-intelligencesemiconductor-designclean-energy-startupsbattery-management-systemsautonomous-driving
  • Toyota launches 17-seat 'adorable' EV shuttle with 160-mile range

    Toyota has officially launched the e-Palette, a fully electric, 17-seat shuttle designed for mobility services with a focus on accessibility and flexible interior configurations. The vehicle features a boxy, futuristic design with large glass panels and digital signage, accommodating up to 17 passengers including the driver, with options for wheelchair locks and overhead screens. Its interior can be adapted for various uses beyond commuting, such as a mobile shop, food truck, or entertainment lounge, reflecting Toyota’s vision of multifunctional urban transport. Powered by a single electric motor delivering 201 hp and a 72.82 kWh battery, the e-Palette offers a range of up to 160 miles (250 km) and a top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). It supports Level 2 driver assistance with plans to advance to Level 4 autonomous driving by 2027 through Toyota’s Automated Driving Kit. Despite its advanced features, the e-Palette carries a high price tag starting at ¥29 million ($196

    electric-vehiclesToyota-e-Paletteautonomous-drivingEV-shuttlebattery-technologymobility-serviceselectric-powertrain
  • Chinese firm's 440 hp electric SUV promises built-in range extender

    Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng has launched the G7 extended-range electric SUV, which combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine acting as a range extender with a 218 kW (292 hp) electric motor. The SUV offers about 202 miles of pure electric range before the gasoline generator recharges the battery on the move. The G7 features a sleek “Robot Face” design with a coupe-like roofline, a drag coefficient of 0.238, and is positioned in the mid-size SUV segment with spacious seating and advanced driver-assist technologies. A standout feature of the G7 is its AI computing power, enabled by three Turing AI chips delivering over 2,200 TOPS, which Xpeng claims is equivalent to the processing power of nine NVIDIA Orin-X chips—between three and twenty-eight times more than typical industry chips. This hardware supports Level 3 (L3) autonomous driving capabilities, although Xpeng notes the vehicle will achieve full L3 status only after

    electric-vehiclesenergy-storagelithium-iron-phosphate-batteriesrange-extenderAI-computing-powerautonomous-drivingelectric-SUV
  • Changan hybrid EV with 12 radars, Level 2 autonomy offers fast charge

    Chinese automaker Changan has unveiled the Nevo A06 sedan, available in both battery-electric (BEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) versions. Built on the Super DNA (SDA) platform, the Nevo A06 offers a spacious medium-to-large sedan design with advanced electric technology. A key highlight is its 6C battery, capable of ultra-fast charging at up to 0.62 miles per second, allowing the battery to recharge from 30% to 80% in just 9 minutes. The BEV variant comes with high- and low-power options, delivering 282 hp and 161 hp respectively, and offers three lithium iron phosphate battery capacities (42.12, 51.48, and 63.18 kWh) with ranges between 261 and 391 miles under CLTC conditions. The EREV model combines a 1.5L 97 hp engine with a 120 kW motor and a 28.39 kWh

    electric-vehiclesbattery-technologyfast-chargingautonomous-drivinglidar-sensorshybrid-EVenergy-storage
  • XPENG Sales Rise 169%! - CleanTechnica

    XPENG reported a significant surge in vehicle sales, delivering 37,709 units in August 2025, which marks a 169% increase compared to August 2024. Although month-over-month growth has stabilized, August sales still set a new monthly record for the company with a 3% rise from July 2025. Over the first eight months of 2025, XPENG achieved 271,615 deliveries, representing a remarkable 252% increase from the same period in 2024. This growth spike began around November 2024, driven by enhanced production and sales capabilities. Despite concerns that XPENG’s rapid sales growth may plateau, the company is addressing this with new models like the all-new P7, which has already started deliveries. Additionally, XPENG’s advanced technology is gaining strong user adoption; in August 2025, its XNGP human-AI co-pilot feature reached an 85% urban driving monthly active user penetration rate, indicating widespread acceptance and

    energyelectric-vehiclesXPENGautonomous-drivingAI-co-pilotclean-technologyrenewable-energy
  • Two Very Different Ways Tesla Could End The Year - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica outlines two contrasting scenarios for Tesla's trajectory by the end of 2025, centered primarily around the success or failure of its Full Self Driving (FSD) Unsupervised technology. In the optimistic scenario, if Tesla manages to widely and successfully roll out FSD Unsupervised—allowing drivers to fully relinquish control without human supervision—demand for Tesla vehicles would surge dramatically. This would likely halt the current sales decline, enable production growth of around 30% compared to 2024, push quarterly sales above 500,000 vehicles, and improve pricing and profit margins. Additionally, Tesla could generate significant new revenue streams from FSD sales, justifying its high market valuation and potentially enabling new factory construction despite some lingering challenges like aging vehicle models and Elon Musk’s controversial political behavior. Conversely, if Tesla fails to deliver FSD Unsupervised at scale and continues limited deployments requiring human safety drivers, the company faces a bleak outlook. The loss of

    energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaautonomous-drivingfull-self-drivingautomotive-technologyclean-energy
  • Chinese giant’s new hybrid EV offers 851-mile range, hits 0-62 mph in 7.5 sec

    Chinese automaker GAC has introduced the Hyptec HL EREV SUV, a hybrid electric vehicle featuring an impressive total driving range of 851 miles, including a 218-mile all-electric range. Central to this model is GAC’s new Xingyuan range-extender system, which combines a 1.5-liter DHE engine with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 250 kW (335 hp) and 430 Nm of torque. This setup addresses common hybrid challenges such as fuel consumption, acceleration, and noise, enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.5 seconds and achieve an estimated fuel economy of about 35 mpg under WLTC standards. The vehicle also supports rapid charging, regaining approximately 130 miles of range in just 10 minutes under 5C fast-charging conditions. The Hyptec HL EREV emphasizes ride comfort and handling, featuring a front double-wishbone and rear five-link suspension system with adaptive stiffness controlled by real-time data

    energyhybrid-electric-vehicleautonomous-drivinglidar-sensorselectric-motorfast-chargingautomotive-technology
  • Photos: Cadillac's new Elevated Velocity concept pushes EV boundaries

    Cadillac unveiled its new Elevated Velocity concept during Monterey Car Week, presenting a high-riding, all-electric crossover that builds on last year’s Opulent Velocity prototype. This concept emphasizes a performance-oriented lifestyle, blending design cues from Cadillac’s V-Series with influences from the Lyriq and Optiq EVs. The Elevated Velocity features a streamlined exterior with smoother lines, a longer nose with a simplified trapezoidal grille, a pronounced roofline, and a raised ride height paired with 24-inch wheels, signaling a focus on both on-road excitement and off-road capability. Inside, the Elevated Velocity is designed for functionality and occupant well-being, using a mix of materials like leather, embossed grains, boucle fabric, and tinted acrylic in deep red tones accented with brushed metal. The vehicle offers multiple innovative modes: Welcome Mode activates lighting and opens gull-wing doors as the driver approaches; Elevate Mode enables autonomous driving with interior reconfiguration for recovery, including air filtration, extreme climatization, red light therapy,

    energyelectric-vehicleEVautomotive-technologyautonomous-drivingvehicle-designair-purification-system
  • Cadillac Reveals Elevated Velocity Crossover Concept - CleanTechnica

    Cadillac has unveiled the Elevated Velocity concept, an all-electric, high-performance 2+2 crossover that extends the brand’s V-Series legacy into the electric luxury segment. Designed to deliver exhilarating performance both on-road and off-grid, the concept combines extreme power, advanced technology, and bespoke luxury craftsmanship. Its elevated platform and 24-inch wheels are engineered for challenging terrains, including extreme desert environments, while maintaining a refined driving experience. The design also hints at future Cadillac styling directions. The Elevated Velocity concept integrates innovative user experience modes that blend technology with purposeful design. "Welcome Mode" features illuminated interiors and dramatic gull-wing doors, creating an inviting atmosphere. "Elevate Mode" transforms the vehicle into an autonomous recovery space with retractable controls, ambient lighting, and biometric feedback to optimize occupant performance and relaxation. "Velocity Mode" focuses on driving exhilaration, with cool white lighting, backlit doors, and an augmented reality heads-up display providing key performance data. These modes underscore Cadillac’s “Art of

    electric-vehiclesautomotive-technologyenergy-storageautonomous-drivingadvanced-materialsIoT-in-vehiclessmart-car-technology
  • Robotaxi Falls Into Construction Pit, Tesla Dojo Done - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica highlights two recent developments that may signal challenges in the advancement of robotaxi technology. First, a Baidu Apollo Go robotaxi in China fell into a construction pit while carrying a paying passenger, despite visible barriers and warning signs. Fortunately, the passenger was unharmed but had to be rescued by local residents. This incident has raised public concerns about the readiness and safety of robotaxis, potentially undermining confidence in the technology despite generally positive overall performance statistics. Secondly, Tesla has disbanded its Dojo supercomputer engineering team, effectively ending its in-house development of AI chips for autonomous driving. Tesla had previously touted Dojo as a critical component for perfecting its Full Self Driving (FSD) system and even considered monetizing the supercomputer’s capabilities. Now, Tesla will rely more heavily on external partners like Nvidia, AMD, and Samsung for computing needs. While this shift may not drastically impact Tesla’s stock, it reflects the high costs and technical challenges Tesla faces in

    roboticsautonomous-vehiclesrobotaxiTesla-DojoAI-chipsautonomous-drivingTesla
  • Tesla drops Dojo supercomputer as Musk turns to Nvidia, Samsung chips

    Tesla has officially discontinued its in-house Dojo supercomputer project, which aimed to develop custom AI training chips to enhance autonomous driving and reduce reliance on external chipmakers. The decision follows several key departures from the Dojo team, including project head Peter Bannon. CEO Elon Musk explained that maintaining two distinct AI chip designs was inefficient, leading Tesla to refocus efforts on developing the AI5 and AI6 chips. These next-generation chips will be produced in partnership with Samsung’s new Texas factory, with production of AI5 chips expected to start by the end of 2026. The Dojo project was initially central to Tesla’s strategy to build proprietary AI infrastructure for self-driving cars, robots, and data centers, involving significant investment in top chip architects. However, the initiative faced persistent delays and setbacks, with prominent leaders like Jim Keller and Ganesh Venkataramanan having left previously. Many former Dojo team members have moved to a stealth startup, DensityAI, which is pursuing similar AI chip goals

    robotAI-chipsTeslaNvidiaSamsungautonomous-drivingsupercomputer
  • DiffuseDrive addresses data scarcity for robot and AI training - The Robot Report

    DiffuseDrive Inc., founded in 2023 by engineer Balint Pasztor and physicist Roland Pinter, addresses the critical challenge of data scarcity in training robots and AI systems by generating photorealistic synthetic data. Traditional real-world data collection is costly and slow, while simulation-based data often lacks realism, leading to a simulation-to-reality gap. DiffuseDrive’s generative AI platform analyzes existing datasets, identifies missing elements, and uses proprietary diffusion models to create highly realistic synthetic data tailored to specific operational design domains (ODDs). This approach enables the rapid creation of relevant datasets in days rather than months or years, improving AI training outcomes by up to 40% in some cases. Unlike generic synthetic data generators, DiffuseDrive integrates a quality assurance layer that contextualizes data generation based on business logic and domain-specific requirements provided by customers, who remain in control of their data and expertise. The platform employs advanced statistical analysis, semantic segmentation, and 2D/3D labeling to

    robotartificial-intelligencesynthetic-dataautonomous-drivingdata-scarcityAI-trainingsimulation-to-reality-gap
  • XPENG Sales Grow 229% in July! - CleanTechnica

    XPENG reported a record-breaking sales month in July 2025, delivering 36,717 vehicles—a 229% increase compared to July 2024’s 11,145 units. This marks the ninth consecutive month with sales exceeding 30,000 vehicles. From January to July 2025, XPENG sold 233,906 vehicles, representing a 270% growth over the same period in 2024. If sustained, the July sales rate would annualize to approximately 440,604 vehicles. The company expanded its presence in Europe by launching the 2025 versions of the XPENG G6 and G9 models and announcing the upcoming launch of the XPENG P7+ in the region. XPENG has now established operations in 46 countries and regions worldwide, including new markets such as the UK, Italy, and Ireland. Additionally, XPENG’s advanced driver-assist technology, XNGP, achieved an 86% monthly active user penetration rate in urban driving during July

    electric-vehiclesautonomous-drivingAI-co-pilotdriver-assist-technologyenergy-storagerenewable-energyXPENG
  • Tesla signs $16.5B deal with Samsung to make AI chips

    Tesla has entered a $16.5 billion agreement with Samsung to manufacture its next-generation AI6 chips, which are designed to power a wide range of Tesla technologies, from its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system to Optimus humanoid robots and AI training in data centers. Samsung’s new Texas fabrication plant will be dedicated to producing these AI6 chips, marking a significant expansion in Tesla’s chip manufacturing capabilities. Elon Musk also mentioned that Tesla is collaborating with TSMC for its AI5 chips, which have recently completed design and will initially be produced in TSMC’s Taiwan and Arizona facilities. Samsung already produces Tesla’s A14 chip, and this new deal represents a major boost for Samsung’s chip-making ambitions after previous struggles to secure large clients. Musk indicated that Tesla’s spending on Samsung chips could exceed the initial $16.5 billion deal, with actual production output expected to be several times higher. Additionally, Tesla will assist Samsung in optimizing manufacturing efficiency at the Texas fab,

    robotAI-chipsTeslaSamsungautonomous-drivinghumanoid-robotssemiconductor-manufacturing
  • Polestar 3 — First Road Trip - CleanTechnica

    The article provides an in-depth first-hand account of a 2,160-mile road trip in the 2025 Polestar 3, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses compared to the Tesla Model Y. The Polestar 3 excels as a road trip vehicle, offering superior comfort thanks to its air suspension and a strong charge curve that supports longer driving ranges. Despite having a larger battery (107 kWh usable vs. Tesla’s 75 kWh), the Polestar is less efficient, consuming about 390 Wh/mi compared to Tesla’s 330 Wh/mi, but it still achieves a longer practical highway range of approximately 275 miles versus the Model Y’s 225 miles. Compatibility with Tesla Superchargers via an adapter is a notable advantage, although charging infrastructure like Electrify America requires improvement. The vehicle’s software and driver assistance features present a mixed experience. The Pilot Assist lane-keeping system is generally better than Tesla’s Autopilot in some respects but suffers from overly aggressive and sometimes

    energyelectric-vehiclesdriver-assistance-systemscharging-infrastructureautonomous-drivingautomotive-technologyPolestar-3
  • Delayed Affordable Tesla Models — Make or Break for the Company? - CleanTechnica

    The article discusses the critical importance of Tesla’s delayed affordable vehicle models, originally planned for production in the first half of 2025, for the company’s future growth and profitability. Despite Tesla’s announcements and ongoing developments like the Model Y refresh and robotaxi pilot program, overall sales have declined in early 2025 compared to previous years, contradicting earlier optimistic projections by Elon Musk. The company faces significant challenges including supply chain disruptions, possibly exacerbated by tariffs, rising costs, and shrinking gross margins, which have made profitability increasingly fragile and dependent on regulatory credits. Tesla’s leadership acknowledges that while production of these new, more affordable models remains on track, the ramp-up may be slower than anticipated due to industry turmoil and last-minute issues. The stakes are high: these models must expand Tesla’s customer base without cannibalizing sales of higher-margin vehicles like the Model 3 and Model Y. Failure to successfully launch and sell these vehicles could lead to continued sales stagnation or decline, threatening Tesla’s

    robotenergyTeslaelectric-vehiclesautonomous-drivingautomotive-technologyclean-energy
  • BYD Sold 2.14 Million Vehicles in the First Six Months of 2025 - CleanTechnica

    In the first half of 2025, BYD Group achieved cumulative sales of 2.146 million vehicles, making it the only Chinese automaker to surpass 2 million units sold in that period. June 2025 sales alone reached 382,600 vehicles, marking an 11.98% year-on-year increase. Notably, pure electric vehicle sales rose significantly by 42.50% to 206,900 units, while plug-in hybrid vehicle sales declined by 12.45% to 170,700 units. BYD has also advanced its intelligent driving technology and supplier collaborations. In February 2025, the company launched three levels of intelligent driving solutions (A/B/C), with the highest level (C-level) featuring the Horizon Journey 6 chip series. BYD placed a large-scale chip order with Horizon and incorporated Black Sesame Intelligent’s autonomous driving computing chip in its Denza brand vehicles. Additionally, BYD invested in Zhuoyu Technology, a former DJI vehicle-mounted

    energyelectric-vehiclesautonomous-drivingintelligent-driving-solutionsautomotive-chipsBYDclean-technology
  • Xpeng Xpands in Australia - CleanTechnica

    At the Melbourne Motor Show in Australia, electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng showcased an expanded lineup for the Australian market, highlighting its growing presence. The Xpeng G6 SUV is already seen on Australian roads, with unofficial sales estimates reaching up to 5,000 units. At the show, Xpeng unveiled the P7+ sedan for the first time outside China and Europe, alongside its luxury G9 SUV and the upcoming X9 model. The G9 is anticipated to launch by the end of 2025. TrueEV represents Xpeng in Australia and emphasized the P7+ as a flagship AI-driven vehicle featuring advanced smart-driving capabilities, a Qualcomm-powered smart cockpit, high energy efficiency, and strong performance metrics. The article also notes the emergence of dedicated Australian Xpeng communities sharing real-world experiences, including long-distance trips, charging tips, and maintenance challenges. Despite some minor accidents reported, customer engagement remains strong, with users actively discussing features such as regenerative braking signals and storage capacity. The upcoming X9

    electric-vehiclesAI-defined-mobilityautonomous-drivingenergy-efficiencysmart-cockpitadvanced-suspensionbattery-technology
  • XPENG The Only Chinese Automaker Invited to Present at the CVPR Autonomous Driving Workshop - CleanTechnica

    XPENG Motors, a leading Chinese AI-driven electric vehicle (EV) company, was the only Chinese automaker invited to present at the 2025 Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR) Workshop on Autonomous Driving (WAD) held in Nashville, Tennessee. Sharing the stage with global industry leaders such as Waymo and NVIDIA, XPENG delivered a keynote titled “Scaling up Autonomous Driving via Large Foundation Models,” showcasing its advancements in autonomous driving research and development. This invitation highlights XPENG’s growing influence in the autonomous driving field and its contribution to cutting-edge AI mobility technologies. On the same day as the presentation, XPENG announced the launch of the G7, the world’s first AI-powered production car equipped with a Level 3 (L3) autonomous driving computing platform. XPENG also proposed two key standards for next-generation L3 autonomous systems: an effective computing power exceeding 2000 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) and the onboard deployment of advanced AI

    robotautonomous-drivingAI-powered-carL3-computing-platformadvanced-driver-assistance-systemsmart-EVautomotive-technology
  • Tesla Is Circling The Drain, Thanks To Stupid Elon Tricks - CleanTechnica

    The article from CleanTechnica highlights a significant decline in Tesla’s public perception, largely attributed to Elon Musk’s contentious political actions and his fallout with former President Donald Trump. Consumer favorability toward Musk and Tesla has dropped sharply, with net negative scores of -26 and -27 respectively, and a 32-point decline in purchase intent for Tesla electric vehicles. This decline spans across political affiliations and demographics, marking the lowest recorded brand positivity for Tesla. The “Trump-Musk feud” has particularly damaged Republican support, contributing to an overall net negative view of Tesla among consumers. Additionally, there is strong public backing for increased government regulation of Musk’s companies and Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, including calls to end government contracts and impose stricter advertising and safety reporting requirements. Public concern over Tesla’s FSD technology has intensified, especially following a recent fatal accident. A majority of consumers support banning FSD until its safety can be verified and advocate for mandatory use of radar and LID

    energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaautonomous-drivingFull-Self-Drivingautomotive-technologygovernment-regulation
  • Nvidia’s AI empire: A look at its top startup investments

    Nvidia has dramatically expanded its influence in the AI sector by significantly increasing its investments in AI startups since the rise of ChatGPT and other generative AI services. The company’s revenue, profitability, and stock price have surged, enabling it to participate in 49 AI funding rounds in 2024 alone—up from 34 in 2023 and 38 combined over the previous four years. This surge includes investments made both directly and through its corporate venture capital arm, NVentures, which also ramped up activity from 2 deals in 2022 to 24 in 2024. Nvidia’s stated goal is to grow the AI ecosystem by backing startups it views as “game changers and market makers.” Among Nvidia’s most notable investments are several high-profile AI startups raising rounds exceeding $100 million. These include OpenAI, where Nvidia participated in a massive $6.6 billion round valuing the company at $157 billion, and Elon Musk’s xAI, which raised $6

    robotAI-startupsautonomous-drivingNvidia-investmentshigh-performance-GPUsartificial-intelligenceself-learning-systems
  • Chinese firm's hybrid EV offers 1,250-mile range with blade battery

    Chinese automaker Chery is set to launch its flagship plug-in hybrid sedan, the Fulwin A9L, in China in early July 2025, with a global rollout planned for the first quarter of 2026. The Fulwin A9L, competing in the mid-to-large sedan segment against models like BYD’s Han DM-i, features Chery’s Kunpeng Super Hybrid Electric 6.0 system paired with a 1.5T turbocharged engine and a 33.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate Kunpeng Blade Battery. This setup delivers a pure electric range of up to 161 miles and a combined total range of approximately 1,243 miles, making it notable for its long-distance efficiency. The vehicle also incorporates advanced driver assistance technologies, including a suite of 27 sensors and the Orin Y 200T computing platform, enabling semi-autonomous features such as Navigate on Autopilot and intelligent obstacle avoidance. At the 2025 International Automotive and Supply

    energyhybrid-electric-vehiclelithium-iron-phosphate-batteryblade-batteryautonomous-drivingdriver-assistanceautomotive-technology
  • XPENG G7 Scores 10,000 Orders in Just 46 Minutes - CleanTechnica

    XPENG’s latest electric SUV, the G7, has made a strong market debut, securing 10,000 pre-orders within just 46 minutes of availability. Priced starting at RMB 235,800 (approximately $32,870), the G7 offers advanced features including an 800V electrical architecture, 5C superfast charging, and a CLTC-rated range of 702 kilometers (436 miles), though real-world range may be somewhat lower. The vehicle is positioned between XPENG’s G6 and G9 models in terms of size and pricing, with dimensions of 4,892 mm in length and a wheelbase of 2,890 mm. A notable technological highlight of the G7 is its use of XPENG’s new Turing AI chip in the Ultra trim, delivering over 2,200 TOPS of computing power and enabling Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities. The Max trim retains the Nvidia Orin X chip. The G7’s combination of competitive pricing,

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  • Pony.ai partners with Xihu to deploy 1k robotaxis in Shenzhen - The Robot Report

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  • Chinese firm's EV offers 830-mile range, charges 10-80% in 12 mins

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  • Waymo robotaxis to map Boston

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  • Multi-agent path finding in continuous environments

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  • Toyota & Waymo Outline Strategic Partnership to Advance Autonomous Driving Deployment

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