News Gist .News

Articles | Politics | Finance | Stocks | Crypto | AI | Technology | Science | Gaming | PC Hardware | Laptops | Smartphones | Archive

Regulatory Approval Required for Autonomous Driving Software Upgrades in China

China has introduced new regulations requiring regulatory approvals for autonomous driving-related over-the-air software upgrades, aiming to prevent automakers from using them to conceal defects or avoid liability. Under the new rules, electric vehicle makers such as Tesla and Xiaomi must obtain a license for product changes before resuming production of affected vehicles. The regulations also ban automakers from naming and marketing driving assistance systems with hints that they can be used as autonomous driving systems.

See Also

China’s Geely Introduces New Smart Driving System. Δ1.81

Geely's introduction of the new G-Pilot smart driving system marks a significant step forward in autonomous vehicle technology, allowing for more efficient and safer transportation. The G-Pilot system will be integrated into cars under various brands, including Geely Auto, Galaxy, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr, with pricing starting at 149,800 yuan for the electric sedan Galaxy E8. This development is expected to enhance the driving experience and reduce the workload of human drivers.

China’s Geely Introduces New Smart Driving System Δ1.80

Geely's new G-Pilot smart driving system is set to revolutionize the automotive industry with its advanced autonomous technology. The system will be available on various models under Geely Auto, Galaxy, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr brands, marking a significant step towards China's growing presence in the global EV market. As G-Pilot continues to evolve, it has the potential to redefine driver experience and safety standards.

Tesla Kicks Off Approval Process for Robotaxi in California: Buy Now? Δ1.79

Tesla has taken a major step toward launching its long-anticipated autonomous ride-hailing service, filing for regulatory approval in California. It has applied for a transportation charter-party carrier permit from the California Public Utilities Commission, signaling its intent to own and operate a fleet of ride-sharing vehicles in the state. While Tesla’s initial rollout will involve human drivers, the ultimate goal is a driverless robotaxi network.

Xiaomi to Sell EVs Globally 'Within the Next Few Years' After Launching $73,000 Premium Car Δ1.78

Xiaomi plans to expand its electric vehicle (EV) business beyond China's borders within the next few years, according to company President William Lu, who made the announcement at a product launch event in Barcelona. The Chinese tech giant's first luxury EV model, the SU7 Ultra, has already garnered significant interest with 15,000 orders in just 24 hours. As Xiaomi looks to challenge Tesla and other players in the global EV market, it must navigate complex regulatory environments and ensure the quality of its vehicles.

Chinese Ride-Hail Firm Didi Seeks $5B Valuation for Self-Driving Unit Δ1.78

Didi Autonomous Driving, a key player in China's autonomous vehicle market, is reportedly seeking fresh funding for its technology unit at a valuation of $5 billion. The company has raised a total of $1.55 billion to date and is testing a fleet of over 200 autonomous vehicles across several Chinese cities. Didi's plans to expand production and commercialize its robotaxis are expected to be funded through the upcoming investment round.

Tesla's China-Made EV Sales Fall to Lowest Since August 2022 Δ1.77

Tesla's sales of its China-made electric vehicles dropped significantly in February, with sales plummeting 49.2% from the same period last year. The drop is attributed to intense competition from Chinese rivals who have launched affordable smart EVs, including Tesla models. Despite this, Tesla remains a dominant brand in China, but its popularity is being challenged by newer models and emerging players.

Tesla Applies for Ride-Hail Permit in California — but There's a Catch Δ1.76

Tesla has applied for a permit with the California Public Utilities Commission to operate a transportation service in the state, a required first step if the automaker wants to eventually offer a robotaxi service there. The application for a transportation charter-party carrier permit was made by Tesla in November 2024 and is currently pending approval from the CPUC. This permit is distinct from those held by ride-hailing app companies Lyft and Uber, which use online-enabled applications to connect drivers with paying passengers.

Tesla's Sales in China Plummet Amid Smart EV Price War Δ1.76

Tesla's sales of its China-made electric vehicles dropped 49.2% in February from a year earlier to 30,688 cars, the lowest since August 2022, as the U.S. automaker faces pressure from Chinese rivals in a relentless smart EV price war. Tesla sold 93,926 Chinese-made vehicles worldwide in the first two months, down 28.7% year-on-year. Chinese rival BYD recorded a 90.4% increase in passenger vehicle sales to 614,679 units last month.

Tesla's China Shipment Slump Signals Weakening Demand Δ1.76

Tesla's shipment data from China has plummeted, with February sales falling 49% compared to last year, amidst a broader trend of weaker demand for the electric vehicle maker. The country's consumer preferences have shifted towards electrified vehicles, while regulatory and data privacy concerns surrounding Tesla's Autopilot technology continue to affect its sales. This decline in Chinese sales is particularly concerning given that it is one of Tesla's largest sales regions.

Self-Driving Cars: Google and Others Map the Road to Automated Vehicles Δ1.76

General Motors has announced the discontinuation of its Cruise robotaxi service, a decision that highlights the challenges faced by companies in the autonomous vehicle sector. CEO Mary Barra cited high costs and regulatory difficulties as primary reasons for the shift in focus toward privately owned driverless cars, reflecting a significant pivot in GM's strategy. The financial burden of the Cruise project, which reported a staggering loss of $3.48 billion in 2023, raises questions about the viability of shared autonomous mobility services.

Tesla Offers $1,100 Incentive in China as Sales Slump to Multi-Year Low Δ1.75

Tesla is slashing costs in China with an insurance subsidy of 8,000 yuan ($1,101.08) on Model 3 purchases to attract customers amid intense market competition eroding its EV share. The company has also offered a limited-time five-year, 0% interest financing plan for rear-wheel drive or long-range all-wheel drive models. Tesla's China-made shipments plummeted 49.2% year-over-year to 30,688 vehicles in February, the lowest monthly total since July 2022.

BYD Pegs Tesla as an Ally in the Fight Against the Gas Engine as It's Ready to Share EV Technology Δ1.75

BYD is willing to share its electric vehicle (EV) and autonomous driving technologies with key rivals like Tesla, as long as that helps advance the self-driving electric vehicle cause. It started by giving away its Tesla FSD equivalent for free. BYD, which became the world's largest electric vehicle maker last quarter at the expense of Tesla, said that it is ready to share technology if that will help to advance the industry as a whole.

Xiaomi Gears Up to Enter Its Luxury Car Era with SU7 Ultra Successor Δ1.75

Xiaomi is positioning itself to transition into the luxury car market, fueled by the unexpected success of its SU7 Ultra electric vehicle (EV), which exceeded initial sales forecasts with over 10,000 reservations shortly after launch. The company plans to expand its lineup with more premium models, potentially including hybrid options, while CEO Lei Jun hints at even higher-priced vehicles in the pipeline. This strategic shift reflects Xiaomi's ambition to enhance its brand image and compete with established luxury automotive brands.

China to Publish Policy to Boost RISC-V Chip Use Nationwide, Sources Say Δ1.75

China plans to issue guidance to encourage the use of open-source RISC-V chips nationwide for the first time, two sources briefed on the matter said, as Beijing accelerates efforts to curb the country's dependence on Western-owned technology. The policy guidance is being drafted jointly by eight government bodies and could be released soon. Chinese chip design firms have eagerly embraced RISC-V, seeing its lower costs as a major attraction.

Hyundai Partners with Avride to Develop Robotaxis in Autonomous Vehicles Deal Δ1.75

Hyundai Motor Company has agreed to jointly develop autonomous vehicles with Avride, a spinoff from Yandex. The partnership will focus on autonomous vehicle technology designed for robotaxis, with the two companies also exploring other use cases such as autonomous delivery services using Avride's sidewalk delivery robots. Under the deal, Avride will expand its fleet of Hyundai Ioniq 5 vehicles and integrate them with its autonomous technology.

This Chinese EV Could Be the Tesla Model Y 'Killer' Δ1.75

Xiaomi's upcoming YU7 electric vehicle has the potential to surpass the Tesla Model Y, following the impressive sales performance of the SU7 model, which outsold the Model 3 in January in China. With features like a larger battery, enhanced driving range, and competitive pricing, the YU7 aims to capture the growing demand for electric vehicles in a rapidly evolving market. As production techniques borrowed from Tesla, such as gigacasting, are employed, Xiaomi appears well-positioned to challenge established players in the EV sector.

Tesla Fixes Cybertruck Wiper Blade Windshield Streaks with Ota Update Δ1.75

The Cybertruck's giant wiper blade has left owners concerned about streaks on the windshield in winter conditions. The issue was first reported by early reservations and owners, citing performance concerns in adverse weather. Tesla has now released an over-the-air (OTA) update to fix the problem.

Weride Turns a Corner in China; Is It Time to Park the Stock in Your Portfolio? Δ1.75

If WeRide successfully launches its new robotaxi service, the GXR, in Beijing, it may mark a significant turning point for the self-driving car specialist. The company's progress in expanding operations in global markets and receiving regulatory approvals could be seen as positive indicators of its growth trajectory. However, investors should also consider the challenges WeRide faces regarding its financial performance.

Xiaomi: Software Update Adds New Features to Affordable Smartphone Δ1.74

Xiaomi's Poco F6 is receiving an extensive software update globally, enhancing user experience with improvements to animations and new functionalities. The update, which is being rolled out gradually, allows users to adjust flashlight brightness and offers a new app arrangement option in a 4 x 6 grid. User feedback indicates that the update significantly enhances the smartphone’s performance, particularly in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.

Tesla Reinstated as Top Pick; Analysts Predict 50% Upside Potential Δ1.74

Morgan Stanley has designated Tesla as its top automotive pick, projecting a price target of $430 that suggests a potential upside of over 50% for investors. The firm emphasizes Tesla's transition from traditional vehicle manufacturing to a broader focus on artificial intelligence and robotics, highlighting the substantial market growth opportunities in these sectors. Analysts believe that Tesla's innovations, particularly in humanoid robotics and energy solutions, position the company for significant long-term success despite projected declines in its Chinese market share.

Tesla Bringing Crucial Child Safety Feature to More Models Δ1.74

Tesla has begun rolling out an update to the Model Y that activates cabin radar, a technology that will soon be available in other models to facilitate child presence detection. This feature is designed to prevent tragic incidents of children being left unattended in vehicles, allowing the car to alert owners and even contact emergency services when a child is detected. With additional models like the Model 3 and Cybertruck set to receive this life-saving capability, Tesla is enhancing passenger safety by also improving airbag deployment via size classification.

Xpeng Shares Jump on Plans to Make Flying Cars, Humanoid Robots Δ1.74

Xpeng Inc. shares rose after the company’s chairman said it plans to start mass production of its flying car model and industrial robots by 2026. The company's ambitions for autonomous vehicles are expected to significantly boost revenue in the coming years. Xpeng's innovative projects have garnered widespread attention from investors and experts alike, sparking interest in the potential impact on the automotive industry.

Microsoft Quietly Updates Copilot to Cut Down on Unauthorized Windows Activations Δ1.74

Microsoft has implemented a patch to its Windows Copilot, preventing the AI assistant from inadvertently facilitating the activation of unlicensed copies of its operating system. The update addresses previous concerns that Copilot was recommending third-party tools and methods to bypass Microsoft's licensing system, reinforcing the importance of using legitimate software. While this move showcases Microsoft's commitment to refining its AI capabilities, unauthorized activation methods for Windows 11 remain available online, albeit no longer promoted by Copilot.

Us Government's Export Restrictions on Ai Chips Threaten Global Leadership Δ1.74

Microsoft has warned President Trump that current export restrictions on critical computer chips needed for AI technology could give China a strategic advantage, undermining US leadership in the sector. The restrictions, imposed by the Biden administration, limit the export of American AI components to many foreign markets, affecting not only China but also allies such as Taiwan, South Korea, India, and Switzerland. By loosening these constraints, Microsoft argues that the US can strengthen its position in the global AI market while reducing its trade deficit.

EU Plans Law to Give Car Services Groups Access to Vehicle Data Δ1.74

The European Commission is set to propose draft legislation this year that would allow insurers, leasing companies, and repair shops fair access to valuable vehicle data, aiming to end a dispute between car services groups, Big Tech, and automakers over monetizing in-vehicle data. The law could be worth hundreds of billions of euros by the end of the decade as the connected car market is expected to grow. However, carmakers have cautioned against legislation that could impose blanket obligations on them and warned of risks to trade secrets.