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Today, we delve into policies with broad implications, focusing on California’s new autonomous vehicle rules. The DMV has issued two sets of rules, each 100 pages, covering AV testing and deployment. After discussions with industry experts, it’s clear there’s strong sentiment about these regulations. The public commentary period provides insight into industry approval and dissent.
Key changes include enhanced data collection, sharing, training, and operations requirements. Notable regulations include the “Notice of Autonomous Vehicle Noncompliance” allowing law enforcement to cite AV companies for traffic violations, although without monetary fines.
Industry insiders believe data is more valuable than fines, yet monetary penalties might add more accountability. On a positive note, the DMV now allows testing and deployment of heavy-duty AVs, a move welcomed by truck companies like Kodiak, according to Daniel Goff, the company’s VP.
However, the term “burdensome” frequently arises in discussions, particularly about new data regulations. Furthermore, the transition from disengagement reports to “dynamic driving task performance system failure” reporting is seen as a clearer, though not universally loved, metric.
These documents also cover annual updates on response plans for first responders and specify communication and training requirements.
What are your thoughts on these rules? Do they push too far, or are they necessary for accountability? Sign up for the Mobility newsletter to share your opinion!
Deals Section:
BMW i Ventures has launched a $300 million fund focusing on AI’s impact on the automotive industry, targeting early-stage to Series B startups in North America and Europe.
Notable Deals:
– German robotics startup Sereact raised $110 million in Series B funding led by VC Headline.
– Spirit Airlines may shut down soon, as reported by the WSJ, after failing to obtain a $500 million government lifeline.
Notable Reads:
– China’s suspension of new AV licenses post-Baidu’s Apollo Go issues.
– Google’s Gemini AI assistant is entering millions of vehicles.
– Faraday Future’s financial disclosure on payments to its founder’s company.
– Rivian’s DOE loan downsizing and factory adjustments.
– Tesla’s Semi-Charging for Business initiative.
– Uber’s collaboration with Hertz for Lucid Motors robotaxi maintenance.
Uber has also introduced hotel booking through its app, partnering with Expedia Group for access to over 700,000 hotels worldwide. Meanwhile, Vay has expanded its remote driving tech fleet in Las Vegas and surpassed 60,000 rides.