In autonomous and self-driving vehicle news are Waymo, TIER IV, Carnegie Mellon, Volkswagen, Uber, RoboSense, Pony.ai, Hesai, Innoviz, Ominivision, Inyo & Elektrobit
TIER IV and Carnegie Mellon University Partnership
TIER IV, the creator of the first open-source autonomous driving software, has partnered with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) to develop a new Level 4+ autonomy system. This next-generation concept blends data-centric AI with robotics to boost scalability, explainability, and safety. Supported by the U.S. DOT’s Safety21 program, the project builds on Autoware technology and aims to address current challenges in transparency, decision-making, and safety assurance. Over three years, TIER IV and CMU will deploy a reference vehicle in Tokyo and Pittsburgh, focusing on hybrid AI-robotics architecture, modular AI models, and rigorous safety mechanisms to enable more trustworthy autonomous vehicle deployment worldwide.
Waymo May Sell AVs
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai announced during a recent earnings call that Waymo may explore selling its autonomous vehicles directly to consumers in the future. While the company’s current focus remains on expanding its robotaxi services through partnerships with companies like Moove in Miami and Uber in Austin and Atlanta, Pichai mentioned “future optionality around personal ownership” as part of Waymo’s long-term business strategy .
California DMV Proposes New Rules for Big Rig Autonomous Vehicles
The California DMV is launching a formal rulemaking process to update regulations for autonomous vehicles (AVs), inviting public and stakeholder feedback. The proposed updates cover both light-duty and heavy-duty AVs (over 10,001 pounds), allowing the latter to test and deploy with a DMV permit. New rules also enhance data reporting for light-duty vehicles and integrate changes from AB 1777, including better first responder interaction protocols and stricter traffic compliance reporting. These updates aim to strengthen public safety and oversight as AV technology advances.
TIER IV & Carnegie Mellon University Partner
TIER IV, the creator of the first open-source autonomous driving software, is collaborating with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) to advance a new “Level 4+” autonomy concept. Their goal is to enhance scalability, explainability, and safety in autonomous vehicles by merging data-centric AI approaches with robotics best practices. This collaboration, supported by the U.S. DOT’s Safety21 program, focuses on evolving the Autoware platform and tackling key challenges like transparent decision-making and robust safety assurance. Over a three-year initiative, they will develop and deploy a reference vehicle in Tokyo and Pittsburgh, aiming to push the boundaries of autonomous driving innovation and improve open-source contributions globally.
Volkswagen & Uber Partner to Launch Autonomous ID. Buzz Fleet in U.S.
Volkswagen Group of America’s autonomous mobility unit, Volkswagen ADMT, and Uber have formed a long-term partnership to deploy thousands of fully autonomous, all-electric ID. Buzz AD vehicles across U.S. cities, starting in Los Angeles. Testing begins later this year, with commercial service expected in 2026. Initially, human safety operators will accompany each vehicle.
Volkswagen’s mobility brand MOIA will provide the integrated system, combining the ID. Buzz AD with software tailored for Uber’s platform. The initiative blends Volkswagen’s manufacturing and tech expertise with Uber’s mobility network, aiming to redefine urban transportation.
Volkswagen and Uber leaders highlighted the collaboration as a major step toward scaling autonomous, sustainable transport. The project is expected to expand nationwide over the next decade.
RoboSense Unveils EMX:
RoboSense, a global leader in AI-powered robotics and LiDAR technology, has launched the EMX, its most advanced automotive digital LiDAR to date. The EMX features 192 beams and delivers 2.88 million data points per second, offering superior detection capabilities, ultra-high angular resolution (0.08°×0.1°), and a 300-meter range. Compact at just 120mm × 80mm × 30mm, it is the smallest main automotive digital LiDAR in its class.
The EMX integrates RoboSense’s proprietary scanning technology, achieving up to 20Hz scanning rates—twice the industry standard—dramatically improving real-time responsiveness to dynamic road conditions. Enhanced with a smart “Gaze” function that dynamically intensifies horizontal resolution, EMX adapts seamlessly to varying perception needs. It also boasts full automotive-grade durability, resisting rain, dust, glare, and contamination.
Utilizing SPAD-SoC and VCSEL chips, EMX delivers high sensitivity and data integrity, enabling advanced spatial-temporal perception. Backed by RoboSense’s robust digital architecture, the EMX is already winning favor with automotive OEMs and is slated for production within the year.
EMX joins RoboSense’s expanding portfolio of customizable LiDAR solutions for both automotive and robotics markets, including the E1R and EM4 models. With configurations scaling from 192 to over 2,000 beams, RoboSense is uniquely positioned to tailor performance for every market tier—from mass-market ADAS to ultra-premium autonomy.
With a 26% global market share in automotive LiDAR and numerous design wins, including DiDi’s L4-ready robo-taxis and advanced robotic lawnmowers, RoboSense continues to lead the industry, setting benchmarks for safety, scalability, and smart mobility.
Hesai Unveils ‘Infinity Eye’ Lidar Suite
Hesai Group has launched Infinity Eye, a comprehensive lidar solution designed to span the spectrum of autonomous driving—from L2 ADAS to full L4 autonomy—alongside three next-gen automotive-grade lidars: ETX, AT1440, and FTX. The Infinity Eye lineup includes:
- Infinity Eye A for L4 applications like robotaxis and autonomous trucks, integrating four ultra-HD AT1440 and four FTX fully solid-state lidars to deliver 360° perception with zero blind spots. The AT1440, boasting 1,440 channels and over 34 million points per second, enables precise detection of small urban objects and terrain irregularities.
- Infinity Eye B targets L3 conditional autonomy, using the ETX—Hesai’s longest-range lidar (400m @ 10% reflectivity)—paired with FTX units for blind-spot detection. ETX is compact, windshield-mountable, and already backed by a leading European OEM, with production slated for late 2026.
- Infinity Eye C supports L2 ADAS with the compact ATX lidar, which delivers 200m range, up to 256 channels, and high noise-resistance via Hesai’s Intelligent Point Cloud Engine. Over 50,000 units have already been shipped, making ATX standard equipment in several 2025 production vehicles.
Hesai’s fourth-gen lidar platform enables high point-cloud resolution, power efficiency, and robust performance in all weather conditions. Leveraging shared architecture across product lines and automated production capacity of up to 2 million units annually, Hesai is set to deliver 1.2–1.5 million lidars in 2025. Their growing footprint also includes robotics, with sensors widely adopted in delivery, cleaning, and lawn care robots by over 1,700 partners globally.
Innoviz Partners with Fabrinet
Innoviz Technologies has announced a strategic partnership with manufacturing leader Fabrinet to mass-produce its InnovizTwo LiDAR product platform, which includes both long-range and short- to mid-range solutions. This collaboration follows successful audits of Fabrinet’s facilities by top global automotive OEMs under the stringent German VDA 6.3 standard.
Fabrinet will provide full-scale, end-to-end manufacturing for InnovizTwo, helping Innoviz scale production efficiently while maintaining high automotive-grade standards. The partnership allows Innoviz to focus on designing advanced LiDAR technology while leveraging Fabrinet’s expertise in optical and electro-mechanical manufacturing. This move aims to accelerate delivery and enhance value for automotive customers worldwide.
OMNIVISION New Image Sensor for Driver Monitoring Systems
OMNIVISION has introduced the OX01N1B, a new 1.5MP image sensor designed for in-cabin automotive driver monitoring systems (DMS). As part of the Nyxel® NIR technology family, it features high near-infrared quantum efficiency (36%), a compact 1/4.51-inch format, and low power consumption. Leveraging OmniPixel®4-GS global shutter technology, the sensor captures motion accurately and without distortion. The OX01N1B includes integrated image signal processing, ASIL-B compliance, and cybersecurity features. It supports both RGB-IR and monochrome configurations and is optimized for use in tight camera modules. With DMS adoption growing globally and mandated in the EU by 2026, this sensor offers a cost-effective, high-performance solution for OEMs. It will be showcased at Auto Shanghai 2025 and enters mass production in Q3 2026.
Inyo Mobility Selects Aeva
Aeva (Nasdaq: AEVA), a leading innovator in perception systems, has been chosen by Inyo Mobility as the exclusive LiDAR supplier for Inyo’s forthcoming autonomous shuttle initiative. The collaboration will see Aeva’s advanced Atlas™ 4D LiDAR integrated into Inyo’s compact, electric urban transport vehicles, enhancing their safety, perception, and operational efficiency in complex city environments.
Inyo’s modular, fully electric vehicle—the Inyo CAB—is designed for sustainable last-mile transport across European cities. The shuttle features customizable interiors, barrier-free access, and supports both autonomous and manual operation for passenger and cargo use.
Aeva’s 4D LiDAR, powered by Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology, enables real-time measurement of both 3D position and velocity, allowing vehicles to distinguish between moving and static objects with high precision—even at distances up to 500 meters and in poor weather. The system is resistant to interference from sunlight and other LiDARs, making it ideal for urban navigation.
Leadership from both companies emphasized the significance of the partnership. Marcus Zwick, CEO of Inyo, praised the compact and high-performance nature of Aeva’s sensors, while Aeva’s Managing Director, James Byun, noted the alignment of both companies’ visions for safer, smarter urban mobility.
This strategic collaboration marks a major milestone in deploying reliable, autonomous public transportation solutions designed to address the growing demands of modern urban infrastructure.
Autonomous Trucks Raise Safety Concerns
As autonomous trucking advances with Aurora Robotics set to deploy driverless trucks on Texas highways in 2025, and Tesla pushing toward a robotaxi launch, attorney and traffic safety expert Amy Witherite warns of the high stakes and potential safety risks. With companies like Kodiak valued at over $1.1 billion and McKinsey estimating a 42% reduction in heavy-duty truck costs per mile, the financial incentives are substantial. However, Witherite emphasizes the need for strong federal regulation, citing concerns that a few fatal incidents or major disruptions could erode public trust and hinder progress.
Elektrobit and Metoak Partner
Elektrobit has entered a strategic partnership with Chinese intelligent driving solutions provider Metoak to accelerate the adoption of software-defined vehicle (SDV) technology. The collaboration combines Elektrobit’s EB corbos Linux for Safety Applications, the first open-source OS compliant with automotive safety standards, with Metoak’s high-performance chips and intelligent driving algorithms.
The partnership’s first project—already underway—focuses on developing cost-effective, next-generation ADAS controllers using stereoscopic vision and multi-sensor fusion. These controllers will support features like lane-keeping and automatic emergency braking, with mass production set for early 2026.
Key to the collaboration is EB corbos Linux’s dual compliance with ISO 26262 ASIL B and IEC 61508 SIL 2. The system allows automakers to develop features faster while meeting cybersecurity regulations, such as Europe’s UNECE R155. Metoak has successfully adapted the OS to its domestic chips, enhancing supply chain flexibility and lowering costs.
The two companies will also collaborate on ASIL D-certified Classic AUTOSAR software, real-time architecture optimization, and autonomous driving algorithms. Together, they aim to foster a local ecosystem promoting a “domestic chips + open-source system” model for Chinese automakers.
Pony.ai Unveils 7th-Gen Autonomous Driving System
Pony.ai debuted its seventh-generation autonomous driving system and showcased new Robotaxi models developed with Toyota, BAIC, and GAC at the Shanghai Auto Show. The new system features a fully automotive-grade autonomous driving kit with improved safety, extended lifecycle, and a 70% reduction in overall component costs. Key advancements include an 80% cut in computing costs and a 68% reduction in LiDAR expenses. Designed for modularity, the system supports multiple vehicle types, from Robotaxis to Robotrucks. Pony.ai aims to begin mass production of Robotaxis in 2025, focusing on technology readiness, integration, and operational excellence to scale safely and affordably.
Pony.ai & Tencent Cloud Accelerate Robotaxis
Pony.ai, a leader in autonomous mobility, announced a strategic partnership with Tencent Cloud and Smart Industries Group (CSIG) to advance autonomous driving technology and speed up Robotaxi commercialization. The collaboration will integrate Pony.ai’s Robotaxi services into Tencent’s Weixin “Mobility Services” and Tencent Maps, expanding user reach and enhancing user experience through innovations in operational models and in-car systems. Pony.ai will also utilize Tencent’s cloud, AI, big data, and simulation capabilities to strengthen its PonyWorld virtual testing model, improving vehicle adaptability and real-world performance. Leaders from both companies emphasized the partnership’s role in driving large-scale deployment and shaping the future of autonomous transportation