The UK government is initiating a consultation to support the fast-tracking of pilot schemes for autonomous vehicles, anticipating launches by 2026. The Department for Transport aims to enhance travel options and create thousands of jobs while inviting public input on regulations related to self-driving services.
German consultant Niklas Klingel was impressed by China's advancements in autonomous vehicles, particularly the innovations at the PIX Moving factory, and sees opportunities for collaboration between Chinese and German automotive industries. He envisions a future where German precision manufacturing and Chinese smart technology combine to benefit global consumers through innovation and cooperation.
Tesla's vehicle deliveries fell to 384,000 in the second quarter, a significant decrease from the previous year's 444,000, reflecting a struggle against competition from both new and established car manufacturers. CEO Elon Musk remains focused on autonomous driving technology, positioning the company's future on self-driving capabilities rather than expanding its vehicle lineup.
A driverless train equipped with an autonomous control system successfully demonstrated its capabilities during a test run in Kokubunji, Tokyo, where it made an emergency stop upon detecting a mannequin on the tracks.
Elon Musk's robotaxi dreams face scrutiny as a limited test launches in Austin, Texas, years after initial promises, with analysts questioning the feasibility of rapid expansion and the technology's safety. Despite past overpromises, Musk's track record of innovation keeps investors hopeful, but challenges from competitors and regulatory scrutiny remain.
The Shanghai auto show features intense competition in the electric vehicle market, with Chinese and international brands showcasing new models and focusing on advanced driver-assistance systems. Regulatory scrutiny and a fatal crash have led to revised marketing strategies, emphasizing driver caution and impacting automakers' plans to promote autonomous driving features.
Thessaloniki’s newly opened driverless metro line, which took 38 years to complete, runs through significant archaeological sites dating back to Roman and Byzantine eras, including the unveiling of the Decumanus Maximus road. The project aims to relieve the city's traffic issues while addressing the complexities of constructing a modern system atop a rich historical foundation.
The luxurious sleeper train Cassiopeia, once a symbol of elegance and comfort connecting Tokyo's Ueno Station with Sapporo Station in Hokkaido, will make its final run in June 2023, marking the end of an era for this beloved train. The aging of its cars and the dwindling number of locomotives capable of pulling the train have led to this decision.
Xizang's modern transportation network, spanning over 120,000 kilometers of highways, expanding rail lines, and growing air links, is driving economic growth, social progress, and deeper integration with the rest of China. This transformation has significantly improved the lives of people in Xizang, boosting incomes, reducing travel times, and improving access to essential services.
Commuters on the East-West Line in Singapore faced delays on Friday afternoon due to a track fault between Queenstown and Boon Lay stations, with normal service progressively restored by 4 pm. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of the public transportation system to weather-related disruptions and the need for improved infrastructure and contingency plans.
Toyota's decision to delay the construction of its EV battery factory in Japan reflects the challenges the company faces in meeting its ambitious electric vehicle sales targets. With global demand for EVs slowing down, Toyota is reassessing its production plans and aiming for a more cautious approach.
Hyundai and General Motors are close to finalizing a deal for Hyundai to share two electric commercial van models with GM, in exchange for GM potentially providing Hyundai with pickup trucks to sell under its own brand in North America. This potential partnership could help both companies better compete in the electric vehicle market and expand their product offerings.
Kyoto-based robotics company tmsuk has developed the SPD series of robots, designed to clean and inspect sewage pipes, addressing labor shortages and improving safety in infrastructure maintenance. The latest prototype, the SPD-X, is currently undergoing testing with the aim of commercialization and mass production.
South Ural State University researchers have developed an AI program that uses CCTV footage to detect traffic anomalies with 30cm accuracy, creating real-time visual maps to improve traffic flow and reduce environmental impact. This program is easily integrated into existing infrastructure, making it a valuable tool for cities to manage traffic congestion.
Chinese AI startup Manus has gained traction in its domestic market, with its AI assistant Monica receiving official registration and the company receiving positive coverage in state media. This development aligns with Beijing's strategy of supporting homegrown AI firms that have achieved international recognition.
China's first space mining robot, developed by the China University of Mining and Technology, features a unique six-legged design and specialized clawed limbs to overcome the challenges of drilling in microgravity and navigating the rugged terrain of asteroids. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize space exploration and resource utilization.
China's new railway policy offers significant discounts for senior passengers, aiming to tap into the growing market potential of its aging population and stimulate the senior tourism market. The policy includes increased reward points for senior members, tailored trains with improved accessibility, and enhanced onboard services with medical support and engaging activities.
A drone system deployed in Xiuzhou District, Zhejiang Province, has revolutionized firefighting operations by providing real-time thermal imaging and significantly improving response time and efficiency. The system, which includes eight drone stations, has also been expanded to monitor illegal waste dumping and construction dust, enhancing urban safety and management.
Meta's chief AI scientist, Yann LeCun, believes humans will remain in control of superintelligent AI, viewing it as a powerful tool rather than a replacement or existential threat. He emphasizes the importance of developing "better AI" with improved reasoning and self-assessment capabilities to mitigate potential risks and harness its potential for positive outcomes.
XPeng's CEO, He Xiaopeng, believes level three autonomy will be a turning point for the automotive industry, similar to the impact of the iPhone 4. Despite strong growth, XPeng remains unprofitable but aims to break even by the end of 2025 and become the first Chinese EV maker to achieve profitability solely through EV sales.
