Toronto, Ontario -- In this week's EV/AV report, autonomous vehicle companies backed by major tech firms are scoping out proving grounds in capital cities, while U.S. regulators take a closer look at the safety of Tesla's full self-driving software.
Waymo in London
Waymo, Alphabet’s self-driving technology unit based in Mountain View, Calif., says it will begin supervised testing on public roads in London within weeks, aiming for fully driverless rides in 2026.
The pilot will run on selected routes in the U.K. capital to validate performance in dense traffic and mixed weather. The company is moving into Europe to prove readiness ahead of broader commercial launches.
Whether or not the proposal receives approval depends on whether the system meets human-driver safety standards set by U.K. authorities.
Tesla faces scrutiny
Tesla, an electric-vehicle maker based in Austin, Texas, faces a wide-ranging U.S. probe into its full self-driving software opened this month by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in Washington, D.C.
The regulator is reviewing crash reports and alleged traffic-law violations to assess real-world behaviour. The investigation could lead to design changes or recalls affecting drivers nationwide.
GM recalibrates
General Motors says it had to pay US$1.6 billion this quarter because it planned for more electric vehicles and parts than U.S. buyers want right now. After the federal US$7,500 credit ended on Sept. 30, the company began slowing factory development and pushing back the launches for a few new electric models.
Zoox Washington
Zoox, Amazon’s autonomous-vehicle unit based in Foster City, Calif., began mapping and early testing in Washington, D.C., this month. Crews drove selected neighbourhoods and recorded signs, lane markings and traffic patterns. The company worked in the U.S. capital to prepare for future driverless service in a complex city. The effort confirmed how the system saw the road before any no-driver trials.
