In autonomous and self-driving vehicle news are Stellantis, TIER IV, Cyngn, Hall Lidar, whereable.ai & Pony.ai
STLA AutoDrive: Stellantis Unveils Level 3 Automated Driving System
Stellantis N.V. has introduced STLA AutoDrive 1.0, the company’s first in-house-developed automated driving system, offering Hands-Free and Eyes-Off (SAE Level 3) functionality. This technology is part of Stellantis’ broader strategy, alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit, to enhance vehicle intelligence and user experience.
Designed for urban commuters, STLA AutoDrive allows automated driving at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph), reducing driver workload in stop-and-go traffic. Users can engage in non-driving activities like watching a movie or reading while the system manages steering, braking, and speed. Activation is simple—drivers are notified when conditions allow, and a physical button enables automation.
The system leverages an advanced sensor suite for real-time monitoring, ensuring precise operation in various conditions, including nighttime and light rain. An automated sensor-cleaning system maintains reliability. Stellantis engineers have fine-tuned STLA AutoDrive to deliver smooth, human-like driving responses, making for a confident, stress-free experience.
At higher speeds, the system supports Adaptive Cruise Control and lane centering in Level 2 (hands-on) and Level 2+ (hands-off, eyes-on) modes. Built on a scalable platform, it is cloud-connected for over-the-air updates and can be adapted for global markets.
STLA AutoDrive adheres to regulations, requiring drivers to remain ready to take control. Future enhancements may expand its capabilities, including Hands-Free and Eyes-Off operation at speeds up to 95 km/h (59 mph) and improved off-road automation for select models.
By prioritizing safety, flexibility, and ongoing innovation, STLA AutoDrive marks Stellantis’ next step toward more intelligent and intuitive driving solutions.
TIER IV Completesl Robotaxi Pilot in Tokyo
TIER IV, a leader in open-source autonomous driving software, has successfully completed pilot tests for its robotaxi service in Tokyo, marking progress toward commercialization. Conducted in Odaiba (November 2024) and Nishi-Shinjuku (December 2024), these tests were part of a government-backed initiative to drive digital transformation in mobility.
The trials assessed the expansion of operational design domains (ODDs) for autonomous vehicles in complex traffic environments. JPN TAXI vehicles, equipped with TIER IV’s autonomous system, navigated 500 diverse scenarios, with safety measures allowing manual control when needed. In Odaiba, passengers used voice commands for navigation, covering a total of 354 km. In Nishi-Shinjuku, a ride-hailing app facilitated trips along designated routes, with a total driving distance of 622 km.
Findings from these tests will refine TIER IV’s robotaxi reference design, reducing barriers for automakers entering the market. By 2027, the company aims to establish a service model enabling robotaxi deployment within three months, supporting nationwide integration.
Cyngn Expands Autonomous Vehicle Deployments Across Industries
Cyngn Inc. has deployed its DriveMod Tuggers and Forklifts across Manufacturing, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Logistics, and Defense sectors, reinforcing its leadership in autonomous vehicle (AV) solutions.
- Manufacturing: Signed a Letter of Intent with a major automotive supplier for DriveMod Tuggers, with deployments underway at COATS Company and another manufacturer.
- Consumer Packaged Goods: Deployed DriveMod Tuggers to streamline distribution workflows for a major CPG company.
- Defense: Implemented DriveMod Tuggers at a major defense contractor, meeting stringent industry requirements.
- Logistics: Integrated DriveMod technology at Global Logistics and Fulfillment LLC’s Las Vegas center to enhance warehouse operations.
These deployments highlight Cyngn’s ability to provide scalable, autonomous solutions across diverse industrial environments.
Hall Lidar Inc. Launches to Advance Lidar Technology
David Hall, the original inventor of modern lidar for mapping and autonomous vehicles, has launched Hall Lidar Inc. (HLi) in Bozeman, Montana. HLi aims to provide high-performance lidar for automotive applications, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), autonomous vehicles, robotics, smart cities, and security.
With operations and test facilities in Alameda, California, HLi will focus on improving vehicle safety by enhancing ADAS systems, helping to prevent pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. Hall believes lidar surpasses cameras in detecting objects in low-light and adverse weather conditions, making it a crucial component for future vehicle safety innovations.
Hall chose Montana for expansion due to its lower cost of living and appeal to engineers, as he positions HLi to compete in a lidar market projected to exceed $16 billion by 2034. With growing demand and potential regulatory support from NHTSA, HLi is set to play a key role in the future of autonomous technology.
NAVER D2SF Invests in AI-Powered Autonomous Driving Startup whereable.ai
NAVER D2SF has invested in whereable.ai, an AI-driven autonomous driving startup focused on scalable self-supervised learning technology. Unlike traditional cloud-based approaches, whereable.ai processes data directly on devices, enabling flexible and immediate deployment without high-definition maps or additional infrastructure. Founded by the cofounders of ThorDrive, the team brings extensive experience in autonomous driving commercialization.
The startup has already secured a project at Incheon International Airport, where 10 autonomous indoor transport vehicles are undergoing test runs, with official operations set for early 2025. With a primary focus on international airports, whereable.ai plans to expand into shopping malls, resorts, campuses, and industrial sites. NAVER D2SF continues to support mobility innovation through strategic investments and collaborations within NAVER’s technological ecosystem.
Pony.ai Launches Paid Robotaxi Services to Major Transit Hubs in Guangzhou
Summary: Pony.ai has introduced paid robotaxi services connecting Guangzhou’s city center with Baiyun International Airport and South Railway Station, making it the first company approved to operate on these high-demand routes. Riders can book autonomous rides via the PonyPilot App at fares aligned with standard taxi rates, providing a seamless and efficient travel option.
This expansion reinforces Pony.ai’s leadership in autonomous mobility by integrating self-driving technology into Guangzhou’s busy urban landscape. The move follows the company’s successful launch of robotaxi services to Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing South Railway Station, further advancing its large-scale commercialization efforts.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Guangzhou South Railway Station rank among China’s busiest transport hubs, handling millions of passengers annually. By offering autonomous rides to these locations, Pony.ai enhances urban mobility while demonstrating the viability of self-driving technology in complex city environments.