Revolutionary EV Alert: Slate Unveils ‘Transformer’ Truck While Tesla Faces Competitive Challenges | TechCrunch Mobility

Welcome back to the central hub for news on the future of transportation! Let’s dive right into some important updates.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently introduced new rules regarding automated vehicles. One key change is in the crash reporting process for vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Previously, companies had to report any incidents within 24 hours. Now, they have five days to submit reports if a vehicle with a Level 2 system is involved in a crash.

Critics, including Consumer Reports, argue this shift could be problematic. The new rules mainly affect vehicles with automated driving systems (ADS), significantly reducing the number of crashes that need to be reported. For example, if a Tesla with Autopilot crashes and no one is seriously injured, the company is not required to report it. In comparison, previous regulations mandated reporting for all accidents involving Level 2 systems.

DOT Secretary Sean Duffy commented on the new rules, expressing that they aim to provide better data while reducing the burden of minor incident reporting. This shift reflects ongoing debates about balancing safety and innovation in the transportation sector. A recent survey showed that 57% of Americans are concerned about the safety of self-driving cars, making transparency in reporting all the more critical.

In other news, the EV startup Slate recently revealed more details about its innovative vehicle design. Dubbed a “transformer,” it aims to attract customers with its unique features. This term resonates with many tech fans who appreciate the combination of advanced mechanics and user-centric design.

Now let’s look at some recent deals in the tech and transportation sectors:

• Ather Energy, an Indian electric scooter manufacturer, has reduced its IPO size by 18%, now targeting 26.26 billion Indian rupees (about $308.3 million).
• DoorDash is pursuing a $3.6 billion buyout of Deliveroo, hoping to enhance its meal delivery services.
• Electra, specializing in hybrid electric aircraft, raised $115 million in its Series B round.
• Fora, a travel agent startup, secured $60 million in funding to expand its offerings.
• The venture arm of United Airlines has invested in JetZero, which focuses on innovative aircraft designs.

Turning to autonomous vehicles, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai recently made headlines by discussing future plans for Waymo during an earnings call. He hinted at potential collaborations with automakers, indicating a broader vision for self-driving technology.

Tesla has begun testing its autonomous ride-hailing service, gearing up for a planned launch later this summer. Meanwhile, Volkswagen and Uber are working to establish a commercial robotaxi service in major U.S. cities by 2026, although initial operations will still involve human safety drivers.

Notably, the landscape for electric vehicles continues to evolve. Rivian’s new board member, Aidan Gomez, signals the company’s commitment to integrating AI into its operations. Meanwhile, Tesla faces challenges with declining profits and increased scrutiny. Despite this, investors remain hopeful about its innovative potential, especially regarding AI technologies and new electric vehicle models.

In ride-hailing news, the Federal Trade Commission has filed a lawsuit against Uber over unauthorized charges related to its subscription service. Interestingly, Uber has formed a new partnership with Delta SkyMiles, allowing members to earn points on rides and deliveries, showcasing a competitive edge over Lyft.

These developments highlight a rapidly changing industry. As regulations adapt to new technologies, the impact on safety, consumer trust, and market dynamics is sure to unfold. Keep an eye on these trends as they continue to shape our transportation future.

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