Plus Automation to Go Public via $1.2B Merger; Volvo Unveils AI Seat Belt System
Key Takeaways
- Plus Automation will go public via $1.2B merger to launch autonomous trucks in 2027.
- Volvo's 2026 EX60 will feature an AI-assisted smart seat belt system to save lives.
- Trump-Musk dispute caused a $150B loss in Tesla's market value on 2025-06-06.
- Suzuki halted Swift production due to China's restrictions on rare earth metals.
- China's rare earth curbs may disrupt auto production, exceeding microchip shortage impact.
Top Stories
Plus Automation to go public via $1.2B merger
On June 5, 2025, self-driving truck startup Plus Automation announced it will go public in the United States through a $1.2 billion merger with special purpose acquisition company Churchill Capital Corp. The merger aims to fund the commercial launch of its autonomous trucks in 2027 with $300 million.
Volvo's AI seat belt system aims to save lives
On 2025-06-05, Volvo announced that its upcoming Volvo EX60 midsize electric SUV, set to debut in 2026, will feature an AI-assisted smart seat belt system. Volvo anticipates that this system will save millions of lives.
Trump-Musk row wipes out $150B from Tesla
On 2025-06-06, a dispute between Trump and Musk led to a significant drop in Tesla shares, resulting in a $150 billion loss in market value.
Suzuki halts Swift production due to China's curbs
On 2025-06-05, Suzuki Motor halted production of the Swift model due to China's restrictions on rare earth metals.
China's rare earth curbs may disrupt auto production
On June 5, 2025, trade groups and automotive executives warned that potential restrictions on rare earth metals from China could cause production disruptions, potentially exceeding the impact of the microchip shortage. U.S. auto suppliers are requesting immediate action.
Autonomous Drive Updates
China considers safety requirements for driver-assistance systems
Plus tests self-driving trucks in Texas, Sweden
As of 2025-06-05, Plus, with Hyundai as a customer, is conducting public road testing of its self-driving trucks in Texas and Sweden. More customer fleet trials are scheduled for fall 2025.
EV Revolution
EV ranges vary from EPA estimates at highway speeds
Consumer Reports indicates that electric vehicle ranges can vary significantly from EPA estimates when driven at highway speeds.
Full-size electric pickups: a failed experiment?
On 2025-06-05, a column suggested that full-size electric pickups are a failed product planning experiment and an industry disaster.
Market Watch
China warns BYD, rivals on price war issues
On 2025-06-05, reports indicated that China is warning BYD and its competitors to self-regulate concerning price war issues.
Danantara Indonesia eyes Grab buyout of GoTo
On 2025-06-06, Bloomberg News reported that Indonesia's newly launched sovereign wealth fund, Danantara Indonesia, is in early talks with GoTo regarding a potential buyout of the ride-hailing and food delivery firm Grab.
Bollinger exits receivership after repaying founder
On 2025-06-05, electric truck startup Bollinger exited court receivership after repaying the founder who had filed a lawsuit.
Auto companies face shortages due to China's restrictions
Tech in Motion
GM targets improved driver awareness with AR HUD
Toyota joins humanoid robot worker race
Toyota is entering the race to develop humanoid robot workers, emphasizing that these robots are intended to amplify, not replace, human workers.
Dealership group invests in AI call automation
Car News Today
Burning ship carries Chinese cars bound for Mexico
On 2025-06-05, reports indicated that a ship carrying cars from Chinese brands and bound for Mexico caught fire, and photos of the incident were released.
5.7L Hemi V-8 offered on 2026 Ram trims
On 2025-06-05, it was reported that the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with eTorque will be available on various 2026 Ram trims, including Tradesman, Big Horn, and Laramie.
2025 VW Tiguan: More comfortable, improved steering
On 2025-06-05, reports indicated that the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan offers improved comfort and lighter steering, representing a step forward for the model.