Articles tagged with "vehicle-safety"
Hyundai-Kia safety tech spots people in blind spots with 99% accuracy
Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced Vision Pulse, a new driver-safety technology that uses ultra-wideband (UWB) radio signals to detect people and vehicles even in blind spots and visually obstructed environments. The system achieves positional accuracy within four inches (10 centimeters) over a 330-foot (100-meter) range and maintains over 99% detection accuracy under adverse weather and nighttime conditions. Unlike conventional blind-spot systems that rely on cameras or radar, Vision Pulse communicates directly with UWB-enabled devices such as smartphones, wearables, and trackers to precisely locate nearby objects in real time, issuing alerts to prevent potential collisions. The technology offers rapid communication speeds of one to five milliseconds, enabling fast tracking of multiple high-speed moving objects simultaneously. Hyundai and Kia have enhanced the system with algorithms that predict the positions of multiple moving objects, improving safety in complex environments like crowded intersections. Vision Pulse leverages existing UWB hardware in some Hyundai and Kia vehicles (originally installed for Digital Key
IoTultra-widebandvehicle-safetyradar-technologyreal-time-trackingsmart-sensorsautomotive-technologyPhotos: New smart sensors can help cars, planes avoid deadly ice-related crashes
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a novel ice-detection system combining paired microwave and laser sensors to provide early warnings of dangerous ice formation on vehicles and aircraft. Ice on roads causes about 20% of weather-related car crashes annually, while in aviation, ice buildup contributes to roughly 10% of fatal air carrier crashes by disrupting airflow and flight controls. The system aims to detect ice as it forms and even before vehicles enter hazardous conditions, enhancing safety for planes, drones, cars, and trucks amid increasing travel demands and pressure to operate in all weather conditions. The technology uses two complementary sensors: a microwave sensor embedded flush with the aircraft surface that detects ice buildup by changes in microwave frequency, and a laser system employing three infrared lasers to analyze clouds and rain ahead. The lasers differentiate between ice particles and supercooled water droplets, with the latter posing a greater icing risk. Additionally, the system measures droplet size and concentration to assess severity, helping pilots or automated systems decide whether to alter course
IoTsmart-sensorsaviation-safetymicrowave-sensorslaser-sensorsice-detectionvehicle-safetyElectric Door Handles - What Did Elon Know, And When Did He Know It? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica examines the development and implications of Tesla’s electric door handles, particularly focusing on the Model 3 and Model Y. In 2015-2016, Elon Musk and his engineering team decided to implement fully electric door handles controlled by software, inspired by Apple’s minimalist, touchscreen-driven design philosophy. Musk’s vision was to eliminate mechanical parts where possible, encapsulated in his statement, “The best part is no part.” These electric door handles, along with other systems like interior lights and Bluetooth recognition, rely on a 12-volt lead acid battery for power, which poses a critical safety risk if the battery fails. The article highlights several tragic incidents where occupants were trapped inside burning Tesla vehicles because the electric door handles and other electronic systems became inoperative without power. One notable case involved a couple, Venkateswara Pasumarti and Susmita Maddi, who were involved in a crash that rendered the electric door handles unusable. Rescue efforts were hindered
energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaelectric-door-handlesautomotive-technologybattery-systemsvehicle-safetyKia PV5 Cargo Achieves Maximum 5-Star Rating in 2025 Euro NCAP Commercial Van Safety Assessment - CleanTechnica
The Kia PV5 Cargo has earned the highest five-star rating in the 2025 Euro NCAP Commercial Van Safety assessment, demonstrating strong safety performance across key categories such as Occupant Protection (75%), Safety Assist & Crash Avoidance (80%), and Post-Crash Safety (80%). The van’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Support System (LSS), and Speed Assistance System (SAS), were highlighted for their effectiveness in real-world scenarios, contributing significantly to the vehicle’s top safety rating. This achievement reinforces Kia’s reputation for safety in its electric vehicle lineup, following previous top Euro NCAP results for models like the EV6, EV9, and EV3. In addition to its Euro NCAP success, the Kia PV5 has garnered notable international awards, including the 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY) and the 2026 Top Gear Family Car of the Year. These accolades
energyelectric-vehiclesautonomous-emergency-brakingadvanced-driver-assistance-systemsvehicle-safetycommercial-vanselectrified-mobilityMusk says new Tesla software allows texting and driving, which is illegal in most states
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced via an X post that the latest version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software allows drivers to text while driving without triggering any warnings. This feature is controversial because texting while driving is illegal in nearly all U.S. states, with about half banning any handheld phone use while driving. Despite Musk’s claims, FSD remains a driver-assistance system rather than full vehicle autonomy, requiring drivers to stay attentive and ready to take control at any moment. Tesla uses in-cabin cameras and sensors to monitor driver engagement, but the system’s reliance on driver readiness has been linked to crashes, and Musk has previously acknowledged that Autopilot can lead to driver complacency. Regulatory scrutiny of Tesla’s FSD is intensifying. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the software following reports of it running red lights, crossing into wrong lanes, and causing crashes in low-visibility conditions. Meanwhile, Tesla faces a legal challenge from the California
robotautonomous-vehiclesTeslaFull-Self-Drivingdriver-assistance-systemsautomotive-technologyvehicle-safetyTesla releases detailed safety report after Waymo co-CEO called for more data
Tesla has released a detailed safety report on its Full Self-Driving (FSD) (Supervised) software, providing new data on its performance and collision rates in North America. According to Tesla, drivers using FSD travel approximately 2.9 million miles between major collisions and about 986,000 miles between minor collisions. These figures are significantly better than the national averages reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which indicate a major collision every 505,000 miles and a minor collision every 178,000 miles. Tesla defines major collisions as those involving airbag deployment or other irreversible restraints and includes incidents where FSD was active within five seconds before a collision, capturing a broad range of scenarios. This release follows calls from Waymo’s co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana for greater transparency from companies deploying autonomous driving technologies. Mawakana criticized the lack of publicly available data from companies like Tesla, emphasizing the responsibility to share safety information when removing drivers from behind the
robotautonomous-vehiclesTeslaWaymodriver-assistance-systemsvehicle-safetyself-driving-technologyRobotaxi companies must do more to prove safety, Waymo co-CEO says
Waymo co-CEO Takedra Mawakana emphasized that autonomous vehicle companies must do more to demonstrate the safety of their technologies. In a recent interview, she expressed skepticism about other companies’ transparency regarding their robotaxi fleets, stating that without clear data, it is difficult to identify who is genuinely contributing to safer roads. Mawakana highlighted Waymo’s own safety data, which claims their vehicles are five times safer than human drivers overall and 12 times safer concerning pedestrian safety, underscoring the importance of prioritizing safety while scaling operations. Mawakana did not explicitly name competitors but implicitly referenced companies like Tesla, which publishes quarterly safety reports focused on its Autopilot system used mainly on highways, where crash rates are lower. Tesla has not shared public safety data on its emerging robotaxi pilot in Austin, Texas. Other players such as Zoox, May Mobility, Pony AI, and Aurora are either in early deployment or testing phases, with varying levels of public safety disclosure. Mawak
robotautonomous-vehiclesrobotaxiWaymoself-driving-technologyvehicle-safetytransportation-technologyWhere AI meets the windshield: smarter safety with VUEROID
The article highlights how VUEROID is transforming traditional dash cams from passive recording devices into intelligent, AI-enhanced safety tools. Jessie Lee, a product planner at VUEROID, emphasizes the importance of reliable, high-quality video recording as the foundation of effective dash cams, rather than chasing flashy features like LTE connectivity or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). VUEROID’s flagship model, the S1 4K Infinite, reflects this philosophy by prioritizing image quality, system reliability, and usability after incidents occur. VUEROID’s approach to AI is practical and focused on post-incident benefits, such as their AI-powered license plate restoration feature that enhances unclear footage to help identify vehicles involved in collisions. Additionally, their cloud-based AI supports privacy features like facial and license plate masking to protect sensitive data before sharing footage with insurers or on social media. A key technical strength lies in VUEROID’s expertise in Image Signal Processing (ISP) tuning, which optimizes image clarity
IoTAIdash-camsautomotive-technologycloud-computingimage-processingvehicle-safetyToyota drone scouts to help drivers navigate off-road terrain from sky
Toyota Motor has filed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to explore a small drone system designed to assist off-road drivers by providing an aerial “co-pilot” that scouts trails and unpaved roads ahead of the vehicle. This innovative concept aims to enhance driver safety and situational awareness by delivering real-time views of challenging terrain, especially in areas where it may be unsafe to exit the vehicle. The drones would primarily operate near the vehicle but could also fly above the treeline to capture broader environmental footage, potentially benefiting overlanders, search-and-rescue teams, and military operations. This move reflects a broader shift in the automotive industry toward integrating unmanned aerial systems beyond traditional uses like delivery, leveraging drones to address navigation and safety challenges that ground vehicles alone cannot solve. Toyota’s filing coincides with evolving U.S. drone regulations, including upcoming rules for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations expected in August 2025, which could facilitate wider commercial drone applications. However, Toyota emphasizes
drone-technologyautomotive-innovationoff-road-navigationunmanned-aerial-systemsvehicle-safetyIoTreal-time-terrain-mappingChina's Xiaomi EV drives itself forward without human command: Report
A Xiaomi SU7 electric SUV in China was captured on surveillance footage moving forward on its own while parked and unattended, sparking public concern. The vehicle’s owner reported the incident to Xiaomi customer service, which initially suggested that a mobile phone might have inadvertently triggered a remote-start function. After a thorough investigation involving backend vehicle data and smartphone operation logs, Xiaomi confirmed that the car received a Remote Parking Assist (RPA) command from the owner’s iPhone 15 Pro Max via Bluetooth, which caused the SUV to roll forward. The company emphasized that the movement was remotely triggered rather than caused by a system malfunction. This incident has reignited industry debates about the safety and reliability of remote vehicle control features like RPA. While such technologies offer convenience, especially in tight parking situations, experts warn of the need for robust safeguards, fail-safe mechanisms, and transparent communication to maintain user trust. The Xiaomi SU7, launched in 2024 as a premium electric SUV with competitive performance specs, represents the growing competition
robotIoTautonomous-vehiclesremote-parking-assistBluetooth-technologyconnected-carsvehicle-safetyTesla Cybertruck's doors were fatal trap in deadly crash: Lawsuit
A fatal Tesla Cybertruck crash in Piedmont, California, on Thanksgiving Eve 2024, which killed three college students, has led to two new lawsuits against Tesla. The victims’ families allege that the Cybertruck’s electronic door release system failed after the crash, trapping the occupants inside the burning vehicle and causing their deaths by smoke inhalation and burns rather than impact injuries. The lawsuits claim that the vehicle’s power cut during the crash disabled the electronic door handles, and the concealed manual mechanical backups—especially in the rear—were too difficult to locate and operate in an emergency. This design flaw allegedly prevented escape and contributed directly to the fatalities. Tesla’s flush-mounted electronic door handles, designed for aerodynamic efficiency and a sleek exterior, have faced criticism for complexity and safety risks, as they vary by model and can confuse users. In the Cybertruck, the rear manual door release requires removing a rubber mat and accessing a hidden cable, a challenging task for injured or disoriented passengers. The National
robotautomotive-technologyelectronic-door-handlesvehicle-safetyTesla-Cybertruckelectric-vehiclesproduct-liabilityVinFast Rolls Out Armored EV - CleanTechnica
VinFast, a pioneering Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, has introduced the Lạc Hồng 900 LX, a fully electric armored SUV developed in collaboration with Canadian armoring specialist INKAS. This new vehicle combines sustainability, luxury, and high-level security, marking a significant milestone for both companies and positioning VinFast to compete with established global armored luxury vehicle makers. The Lạc Hồng 900 LX underwent rigorous third-party ballistic and blast testing, achieving VPAM VR7 certification, which provides robust protection against rifle fire and armor-piercing threats. The armored SUV successfully withstood over 400 live rounds, including laser-guided shots, as well as the simultaneous detonation of two DM51 hand grenades beneath critical floor areas. This level of protection is particularly notable given the challenges of safeguarding the high-voltage battery system in an electric vehicle. VinFast handled the electric vehicle engineering, while INKAS focused on the armoring, resulting in a vehicle that sets a new standard in electric armored
electric-vehiclesarmored-vehiclesenergy-storagesustainable-transportationbattery-protectionvehicle-safetyEV-engineeringThe fall of EV startup Fisker: A comprehensive timeline
Fisker, an electric vehicle startup founded by Henrik Fisker, faced significant challenges shortly after launching its Ocean SUV in 2023. Despite initial ambitions for rapid growth, the company struggled with production shortfalls, delivering only 1,022 vehicles in Q2 2023 against a target of 1,400 to 1,700. Fisker attempted to raise capital through a $340 million convertible debt sale to fund operations and future growth but later cut its 2023 production target drastically to about 10,000 vehicles, a quarter of its original forecast. Sales also lagged behind internal goals, with daily sales in North America often falling far below the targeted 100 to 200 vehicles. Compounding Fisker’s difficulties were numerous safety and quality issues with the Ocean SUV, including brake failures, sudden power loss, malfunctioning doors, and unexpected hood openings at highway speeds. These problems prompted investigations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including probes into braking issues
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-startupbattery-technologyautomotive-industryFisker-Oceanvehicle-safetyONVO’s Flagship SUV L90 Officially Launched, Starting at RMB 265,800 - CleanTechnica
ONVO, NIO’s second brand, has officially launched its flagship Smart Large-Space SUV, the L90, in Hangzhou, with prices starting at RMB 265,800 or RMB 179,800 with a battery subscription (BaaS) option. The L90 is available in six- and seven-seat layouts, with deliveries beginning August 1 for the six-seater and late September for the seven-seater. The SUV features a commanding exterior and premium interior, emphasizing six key innovations: flagship-level safety, extraordinary space, premium comfort, joyful ride, superior energy efficiency, and all-scenario intelligence. The L90 prioritizes safety with a three-compartment steel-aluminum hybrid body, 84% aluminum alloy and high-strength steel, and a torsional stiffness of 38,150 N·m/Deg. It has passed 62 rigorous crash tests, including China’s first high-speed front-and-rear truck collision test in rainy conditions. Standard safety features include nine airbags
energyelectric-vehiclebattery-swappingsmart-SUVvehicle-safetyautomotive-materialsautonomous-emergency-brakingTesla Autopilot Crash Trial — Highlights from Opening Days - CleanTechnica
The trial in Florida concerning a fatal crash involving a Tesla vehicle operating on Autopilot began on July 14. The case centers on the claim by the estate of Benavides Leon, a bystander who died in the crash, that Tesla’s Autopilot system malfunctioned and was a proximate cause of the incident. Over the first three days, testimonies were heard from emergency responders, a Florida Highway Patrol officer, and an expert statistician, alongside depositions from a Tesla Autopilot firmware engineer. Notably, Corporal David Riso, the lead investigator, testified that Tesla did not provide the autonomous driving data from the vehicle, with a technician claiming the file was corrupted—a statement Riso disputed as untrue. Expert witness Dr. Mendel Singer criticized Tesla’s Vehicle Safety Report, highlighting a lack of independent validation and discrepancies in how Tesla counts crashes compared to non-Tesla vehicles. He pointed out that Tesla’s data incorrectly lumps all vehicle types together and that the company
robotautonomous-vehiclesTesla-Autopilotself-driving-technologyvehicle-safetyautomotive-roboticsAI-in-transportationWaev Launches Fusion: All-New Li-Ion Commercial Carts and Low-Speed Vehicles - CleanTechnica
Waev Inc., an electric vehicle manufacturer specializing in right-sized, low-speed vehicles (LSVs) for local fleets, has launched its new Fusion lineup, expanding its portfolio of electrification solutions. The Fusion series includes both passenger and utility models designed for reliability, safety, and versatility. Key features include a durable powder- and E-coated frame, a heated and insulated 105 AH Marxon® Li-ion battery with a five-year warranty, Bluetooth diagnostics, and multiple safety enhancements such as LED lighting, reverse alarms, backup cameras, pedestrian alert systems, and 3-point seat belts. Fusion vehicles come as either street-legal carts limited to 19 mph or LSVs limited to 25 mph that meet federal safety standards. The passenger models in the Fusion lineup range from the compact 2+2 seating four people to the larger 6+2 model accommodating eight passengers, suitable for uses like security, event management, shuttling, and campus tours. Utility models feature matte black finishes,
energyelectric-vehicleslithium-ion-batterylow-speed-vehiclesfleet-managementvehicle-safetyBluetooth-diagnosticsTesla’s robotaxis have already caught the attention of federal safety regulators
Federal safety regulators, specifically the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), have contacted Tesla following the launch of its branded robotaxi service in South Austin. This outreach came after numerous online videos appeared to show Tesla robotaxis violating traffic laws, including speeding and sudden, unexplained braking near police vehicles. NHTSA confirmed it is gathering additional information and emphasized its role in enforcing vehicle safety laws through a data-driven, risk-based investigative process, noting that it does not pre-approve new vehicle technologies but investigates potential safety defects after incidents are reported. Tesla’s robotaxi service, which began rides for invited customers, represents the first real-world test of the company’s autonomous vehicle technology. Unlike Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software sold to vehicle owners—which requires driver supervision—the robotaxis use an unsupervised version of FSD, although Tesla has not disclosed specific software details. Despite the autonomous operation, a human safety monitor is present in the front passenger seat during rides
robotautonomous-vehiclesTeslarobotaxistransportation-technologyvehicle-safetydriver-assistance-systemsNHTSA Adjusts Autonomous Vehicle Rules Ahead Of Tesla Robotaxi Rollout - CleanTechnica
robotautonomous-vehiclesTeslaNHTSAvehicle-safetyinnovationtransportationWaymo updates 1,200+ robotaxis in software recall
robotrobotaxiautonomous-vehiclesWaymoself-driving-technologyvehicle-safetytransportation-technologyAmazon-owned Zoox issues recall following robotaxi crash
robotautonomous-vehiclesrobotaxiZooxself-driving-technologyvehicle-safetytransportation-technology