Tesla Robotaxi Under NHTSA Investigation; Tesla France Guilty of Misleading Practices

Latest Motoring and Tech News
Total 2071 words · 9 mins read

Key Takeaways

  • NHTSA investigates Tesla's Austin robotaxi service for traffic violations; Tesla stock fell 2.08%.
  • Tesla France found guilty of misleading FSD promotion; faces €50,000/day penalty if practices continue.
  • Waymo and Uber launch commercial robotaxi service in Atlanta, expanding their partnership.
  • Next-gen Toyota Supra being developed, possibly with Lexus and Mazda siblings, potentially hybrid.
  • BYD UK and Octopus Energy launch Power Pack EV bundle with free home charging.

Top Stories

NHTSA Investigates Tesla Robotaxi in Austin for Traffic Violations.

The NHTSA is investigating Tesla's robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, launched in June 2025, following reports of traffic violations, including driving in the wrong lanes and sudden braking. The agency is gathering information from Tesla regarding these incidents, which have raised safety concerns about the robotaxis, and Tesla's stock fell 2.08% on Tuesday.

French Authorities Find Tesla France Guilty of Misleading Practices.

French authorities (DGCCRF) found Tesla France guilty of misleading commercial practices related to autonomous driving capabilities, ordering Tesla to cease these practices within four months or face a €50,000 per day penalty. The investigation found issues with Tesla's sales contracts, payment methods, refunds, and FSD function promotion, determining that Tesla misled consumers in promoting its FSD features.

Waymo and Uber Launch Robotaxi Service in Atlanta.

Waymo and Uber launched a commercial robotaxi service in Atlanta on June 24-25, 2025, covering a 65-square-mile area, expanding their partnership which started in Austin. Riders can book Waymo's autonomous vehicles through Uber's app, with the service operating in five U.S. cities and offering both human-driven and self-driving options.

Next-Generation Toyota Supra Development.

The next-generation Toyota Supra, potentially a MkVI model, is being developed and may have siblings with Lexus and Mazda, potentially featuring a hybrid drivetrain. A related Lexus coupe, possibly called 'LC+RC Integrated Sports', may offer 2+2 seating and a convertible option, with both cars expected to have electrified powertrains.

BYD UK and Octopus Energy Launch Power Pack EV Bundle.

BYD UK and Octopus Energy launched the Power Pack Bundle in the UK, offering an all-inclusive EV bundle, including a leased V2G-ready BYD Dolphin, a V2G Zaptec Pro charger, and a smart tariff for free home charging. The bundle offers free charging if the vehicle is charged 20 times a month for at least 12 hours, typically at night.

Autonomous Drive Updates

Tesla Seeks to Keep FSD Information Private.

Tesla is seeking to keep its responses to the NHTSA regarding its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology private, invoking a federal law to restrict the public release of confidential information. This follows Tesla's robotaxi service launch in Austin, Texas, in June 2025, with the NHTSA reviewing Tesla's responses to safety concerns.

Car News Today

Xiaomi to Launch YU7 Electric SUV on June 26, 2025.

Xiaomi will launch its first electric SUV, the YU7, on June 26, 2025, targeting the competitive SUV segment. The car will be equipped with advanced driving assistance, laser radar, panoramic display, and an 800V silicon carbide high-voltage platform, with three versions offering different battery and range options.

BYD Australia to Launch Sealion 8 Plug-in Hybrid SUV in Early 2026.

BYD Australia will launch the Sealion 8 plug-in hybrid SUV in early 2026, a seven-seat SUV intended to compete with the Toyota Kluger and Kia Sorento. The Sealion 8 features DM-i 5.0 plug-in hybrid technology, with DM-i and DM-p forms using a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine.

2025/2026 Nissan Leaf Redesigned as Crossover.

The 2025/2026 Nissan Leaf has been redesigned as a crossover with advanced technology, featuring a minimalist dashboard, two 14.3-inch screens, and a spacious cabin. It uses the CMF-EV platform, with battery options of 52 kWh and 75 kWh, offering a range of up to 604 km, and production will occur in Sunderland, UK.

BMW to Launch Electric iM3 ZA0 in March 2027.

BMW is planning to launch the electric iM3 ZA0, the first electric M3, in March 2027, built on the Neue Klasse EV platform and expected to produce between 700 and 900 horsepower via a quad-motor setup. Production will begin in Munich and is expected to continue until autumn 2034, with the iM3 sold alongside the ICE M3.

2026 Cadillac Optiq EV Details Revealed.

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq EV will be the first General Motors electric vehicle built with Tesla’s charging connector, offering RWD and AWD options, with production set to begin on August 25. The RWD model will produce 315 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD model will increase to 440 hp and 498 lb-ft of torque.

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Revealed.

The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, revealed in 2025, is an off-road-focused SUV replacing the Timberline trim, featuring orange accents, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and AWD with a Torsen limited-slip differential. Engine options include a 300-hp EcoBoost turbo four and a 400-hp EcoBoost V6, with an off-road-tuned suspension.

BMW M2 CS Sports Coupe Details.

The BMW M2 CS sports coupe is a more powerful variant of the standard M2, boasting 530 horsepower (390 kW) and 650 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 302 km/h. It is lighter than the standard M2 by 40 kg, with a price starting from 141.100 € in Spain.

Toyota Introduces 48V Mild Hybrid System for European Land Cruiser.

Toyota is introducing a 48V mild hybrid system for all European Land Cruiser models, combining a 2.8-litre diesel engine (205 hp) with an electric motor-generator (12kW and 65Nm) and a lithium-ion hybrid 48V battery. The battery charges during deceleration, recovering braking energy, with initial deliveries expected by the end of the year.

Volkswagen to Revamp ID.4.

Volkswagen will revamp the ID.4, with the new model set to be revealed towards the end of 2026 and sales starting in 2027, featuring a cleaner, swooping styling and a completely different interior. The updated ID.4 will feature new batteries and powertrains, and physical buttons will return.

Mercedes-AMG Developing High-Performance Electric SUV.

Mercedes-AMG is developing a high-performance electric SUV, expected to launch early next year, built on the AMG.EA architecture and featuring axial flux motors producing over 1,000 horsepower. It will have an 800V battery for quick charging and a range of 600 km, competing with the future Ferrari EV and the Lamborghini Lanzador.

Next-Gen Tata Sierra Details.

The next-gen Tata Sierra, expected to launch in Q4 2025, will feature a three-screen dashboard layout, including a digital instrument cluster, central touchscreen, and passenger touchscreen. The Sierra will compete with the Hyundai Creta and will be available in electric and ICE variants, with the EV arriving first.

2025 Kia EV6 GT Receives Performance Upgrades.

The 2025 Kia EV6 GT receives performance upgrades, including increased horsepower (641 hp), accelerating from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds (0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds). The GT features styling updates, neon-green interior accents, and a new steering wheel, with pricing starting at $65,275.

XPeng G6 Review.

The XPeng G6 is reviewed, highlighting its coupé-like design and aiming to compete with the Tesla Model Y, with the Long Range version featuring an 87.5 kWh battery pack, a 210kW/440Nm electric motor, and a claimed WLTP driving range of 570km. The car features a 14.96" central monitor, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and an AI-driven voice assistant.

Bentley Introduces High-Powered V-8 Plug-in Hybrids.

Bentley introduces high-powered V-8 plug-in hybrids for the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur, delivering 671 hp and 686 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.5-3.8 seconds. The 2025 updates include new hybrid options, with the Flying Spur hitting 60mph in 3.8 seconds and an EV-only range of around 50 miles.

Volkswagen Developing ID.2 GTI Clubsport.

Volkswagen is developing a hardcore Clubsport version of the upcoming ID.2 GTI, with a planned launch for next year, featuring 286 horsepower and mechanical and electronic upgrades. The standard ID.2 GTI will have 226 horsepower with the new APP550 electric front motor, debuting in late 2026.

MG to Unveil New All-Electric SUV at Goodwood.

MG will unveil a new all-electric SUV, likely the MG IM6, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2025, designed to rival the Tesla Model Y. The IM6 could have up to 767bhp and accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds, featuring an 800V high-voltage architecture.

Kia EV3 Wins Autotrader Awards.

Kia's EV3 won 'Car of the Year' and 'Best Mainstream Electric Car' at the 2025 Autotrader Drivers' Choice Awards, with the Kia EV3 impressing drivers with its value, packaging, and refinement. Hyundai's IONIQ 5 won 'Best Car for City Drivers' at the same awards.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Details.

The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X combines a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine with an electrified all-wheel-drive system, delivering 1267 hp, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 375 km/h. The ZR1X features a Gemini small-block V8 engine with integrated manifold and 76mm turbo housings, along with a 189ps/197Nm front motor.

EV Revolution

Tata Motors Launches Harrier EV RWD Models.

On June 23-24, 2025, Tata Motors launched the Harrier EV RWD models, with bookings starting July 2, offering 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery options with ranges of 420-627 km. The price ranges from ₹21.49 lakh to ₹27.49 lakh (ex-showroom), with the rear motor in the RWD version generating 238 PS.

Electric Cars Slated to Launch in India.

Several electric cars are slated to launch in India soon, including the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, expected around September with 61.1 kWh and 48.8 kWh battery options. Other expected models include Tata Punch EV Facelift, Mahindra XEV 7e & XUV 3XO EV, Kia Clavis EV, MG Cyberster & M9, and VinFast VF 6 & VF 7.

Ford Proceeding with $3 Billion EV Battery Plant.

Ford is proceeding with its $3 billion electric-vehicle battery plant in Marshall, Michigan, slated to open in 2026, which will produce 20 gigawatt-hours of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries and create 1,700 jobs. The plant uses technology licensed from Chinese battery giant CATL, a move that has drawn intense political scrutiny.

Tata Harrier EV Receives 5-Star Safety Rating from Bharat NCAP.

The Tata Harrier EV has received a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, scoring full marks in adult occupant protection (32/32) and securing 45 out of 49 in child occupant protection. The electric SUV, with a starting price of 21.49 lakh rupees, is the first AWD electric car in the country and includes Level 2 ADAS and seven airbags.

Ample Launches Battery Swapping Service in Madrid.

Ample is launching its battery swapping service in Madrid, Spain, for the Fiat 500e, with the EV conversion for Stellantis' FreetoMove car share business. A swap takes about five minutes, costing FreeToMove customers 19 cents per minute, with Ample rolling out 10 stations in Madrid.

Tata Curvv EV and Harrier EV Compared.

Tata Curvv EV's top-spec Empowered+ A variant and Tata Harrier EV's base Adventure trim are compared in terms of features and pricing, with the Harrier EV priced at Rs 21.49 lakh and the Curvv EV costing Rs 21.99 lakh. The Curvv EV offers a 12.3-inch infotainment system, ventilated front seats, 9-speaker JBL sound system, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, and Level 2 ADAS suite.

Market Watch

E-bike Market in Germany.

Germany is a stronghold for e-bikes in Europe, generating 5.4 billion euros in revenue in 2024, with e-bikes dominating sales and accounting for 54% of new bikes and 86% of industry revenue in Q1 2025. However, the market faces challenges like high inventory and declining margins.

Barclays and Goldman Sachs on Tesla's Robotaxi.

Barclays maintains an Equalweight rating and a $275.00 price target for Tesla shares, following a limited robotaxi launch in Austin, Texas, while Goldman Sachs maintains a neutral stance, suggesting investors may be overreacting to the company's new robotaxi business. Tesla initiated robotaxi operations on June 22 in Austin, Texas, leading to an 8% stock increase on Monday.

Alphabet's Stock Slips Due to Tesla's Robotaxi Launch.

Alphabet's stock slipped on June 23, 2025, as Tesla launched its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, posing competition to Alphabet's Waymo, with the stock price falling by 0.97% to $166.09. Despite the competition, the impact on Alphabet's stock was minimal.

Tech in Motion

Continental Establishes AESS Organization for Automotive Semiconductors.

Continental's Automotive group established an Advanced Electronics & Semiconductor Solutions (AESS) organisation to design and verify automotive semiconductors internally, aiming to increase resilience and reduce geopolitical risks in semiconductor supply for Software-defined Vehicles. The global automotive semiconductor market is projected to reach approximately 110 billion euros by 2032.

Audi Integrates Dolby Atmos in Select Models.

Starting in July 2025, Audi will integrate Dolby Atmos into the Bang & Olufsen Premium 3D Sound System for the Q7, Q8, A8, and e-tron GT models, enhancing the audio experience with a three-dimensional sound stage. This feature requires the Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system and is not available in the base-level trims.

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