Category: EV vehicles

June 25, 2025
EV Fire Sinks Cargo Ship, Increasing Risks in EV Transport
Key Takeaways
1. The Morning Midas sank on June 23 after battling a fire that started on June 3 while transporting nearly 3,000 vehicles to Mexico.
2. All 22 crew members were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard as the fire worsened and the ship faced harsh weather conditions.
3. The incident is reminiscent of previous cases, including the sinking of the Felicity Ace in March 2022 and the Fremantle Highway fire in July 2023, raising concerns about safety measures for vessels carrying electric vehicles (EVs).
4. Lithium-ion batteries in EVs can cause dangerous fires if damaged, leading to “thermal runaway,” which is difficult to extinguish with standard equipment.
5. The sinking of the Morning Midas serves as a warning about the unresolved safety issues related to transporting electric vehicles as the automotive industry shifts towards more EVs.
The 600-foot (183-meter) vehicle carrier, Morning Midas, sank on Monday, June 23, in deep international waters near Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, as confirmed by its management company, Zodiac Maritime. The ship, which was transporting nearly 3,000 new vehicles to Mexico, faced a fire that started on June 3. All 22 crew members were successfully rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and moved to a nearby merchant vessel as the fire worsened.
Fire and Damage
In a statement from Zodiac Maritime, it was reported that the ship ultimately lost the battle against the combined damage from the initial fire, harsh weather conditions, and later water seepage. Smoke was first detected rising from the deck, which was loaded with around 750 electric and hybrid vehicles.
Similar Incidents
This incident echoes the sinking of the Felicity Ace in March 2022, which went down off the Azores with 4,000 luxury vehicles following a fire, as well as the July 2023 fire on the Fremantle Highway in the North Sea. The latter case, involving nearly 500 EVs, led the Dutch Safety Board to urgently call for better emergency response measures for vessels carrying electric vehicles.
The Lithium-Ion Issue
The main problem stems from the lithium-ion batteries that power EVs. Although they are usually safe, if they become damaged or have defects, they can trigger a “thermal runaway” — a chemical reaction that generates extreme heat and releases flammable, toxic gases. Such fires are notoriously hard to put out using standard shipboard equipment and can rage on for days or even weeks without control.
The U.S. Coast Guard is currently keeping an eye on the Morning Midas location, which is about 415 miles (667.88 km) from shore in waters more than 16,404 feet (5 km) deep. “There is no visible pollution,” stated Petty Officer Cameron Snell, who also noted that salvage and pollution-control vessels are present at the site as a precautionary measure.
A Wake-Up Call
As the global automotive industry speeds up its shift towards electric vehicles, the tragedy of the Morning Midas highlights the unresolved safety issues associated with transporting these vehicles across oceans worldwide.
Source:
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Tags: electric vehicles, Lithium-ion Batteries
June 24, 2025
Infinity Train: The Electric Train That Never Needs Recharging
Key Takeaways
1. Fortescue’s Infinity Train completed a journey of 1,100 kilometers from Perth to the Pilbara mines without using fossil fuels.
2. The train uses regenerative braking to generate electricity from downhill slopes, potentially allowing it to run indefinitely without grid power.
3. The locomotive was developed through a partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering and is part of Fortescue’s plan for “Real Zero” emissions by 2030.
4. Transitioning to Infinity Trains could save Fortescue 82 million liters of diesel and reduce CO₂ emissions by about 235,000 tons annually.
5. The initial development phase of the Infinity Train cost around $50 million USD, with anticipated operational savings of about $80 million USD per year.
Australian mining firm Fortescue has successfully sent its battery-operated “Infinity Train” on a complete journey of 1,100 kilometers (roughly 684 miles) from Perth to the Pilbara mines, all without using fossil fuels. Although it is not confirmed if the train finished the trip without needing a recharge, this is the company’s aim for the future. The Infinity Train takes advantage of the natural landscape of the iron ore railway and employs regenerative braking to harness energy from downhill sections, helping to recharge its batteries.
Energy Recovery
When the train is loaded, it utilizes the downward slope as a source of energy. Its regenerative braking system generates enough electricity to allow the empty train to return uphill to the open-pit mine without needing outside charging sources. After reaching the top, it can recharge again while being filled with ore, getting ready to start the cycle over. Ideally, the Infinity Train might run indefinitely without drawing power from the grid.
Collaboration and Development
The locomotive was created by Fortescue Zero in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), which Fortescue bought in 2022. The company celebrated the arrival of the prototype with several posts on LinkedIn. CEO Ellie Coates referred to it as “an important milestone on the road to Real Zero.” Following this transfer run, a testing program lasting several months will take place before the Infinity Train is put into regular service along the 385-mile heavy-duty route in the Pilbara area. “These tests are crucial for scaling the system to meet the unique demands of the area,” Coates elaborated.
Commitment to Emission Goals
The Infinity Train initiative is a significant part of Fortescue’s plan to achieve “Real Zero” emissions by 2030. Currently, the company operates 54 diesel-powered locomotives within its Pilbara rail network. By moving entirely to Infinity Trains, Fortescue anticipates saving 82 million liters (21.7 million U.S. gallons) of diesel and lowering CO₂ emissions by approximately 235,000 tons each year, while also cutting operational costs by about $80 million USD annually. The estimated cost for the initial development phase over the first two years was around $50 million USD.
Source:
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Tags: Fortescue
June 24, 2025
Model Y Performance Leak Unveils Aerodynamic Kit and Sporty Wheels
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is testing the final update of the Model Y Performance facelift, set to debut this year.
2. The 2026 Model Y Performance is expected to have a 510 HP drivetrain, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just over three seconds.
3. Design improvements include enhanced aerodynamics and greater efficiency for longer range on a single charge.
4. The updated Model Y Performance has been spotted without camouflage, showcasing its distinct features like Performance badging and a carbon fiber spoiler.
5. The new Model Y Performance will likely cost around $10,000 more than the AWD version when available on Tesla’s configurator.
Tesla is currently undergoing tests on the last new vehicle set to debut this year, which is the Model Y Performance facelift. Following the release of the 2026 Model Y AWD and the more affordable RWD trims, along with refreshed versions of the Model S and Model X, the time has come for the final update to complete their vehicle lineup.
Specifications and Performance
The 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance is likely to feature the 510 HP drivetrain from the Model 3 Performance, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over three seconds. This would be impressive for an SUV weighing around 2 tons.
Design Enhancements
The refreshed Model Y boasts improved aerodynamics compared to its earlier model, thanks to redesigns in the body, wheels, and brake kit. As a result, the 2026 Performance version should achieve a bit more distance on a single charge, even with its increased power.
Testing and Visuals
A first glimpse of the updated Model Y Performance was captured without its prototype camouflage while being tested in the Alps, showing that all the aerodynamic changes introduced with the Juniper refresh are present.
Clearly, there are distinct indicators that this is the quickest Model Y, including the Performance badging on the back, the carbon fiber spoiler, and the dual diffusers on the sporty rear bumper. The 21-inch wheels may also be a unique feature for the Model Y Performance, similar to how the Model X facelift debuted with new wheels.
The most powerful Model Y has already been tested on the racetrack at Nürburgring, although it was covered in camouflage during those tests. This recent sighting provides a clearer view of what to expect when the 2026 Performance trim becomes available on Tesla’s configurator, which is anticipated to come with an additional cost of about $10,000 compared to the AWD version.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2026 Model Y, electric SUV, Tesla Model Y Performance
June 24, 2025
Tesla sued after fatal Model S crash in New Jersey with Autopilot
Key Takeaways
1. The family of three victims from a New Jersey car accident has filed a lawsuit against Tesla.
2. The accident occurred while the Tesla Model S was using its Autopilot feature, resulting in a crash into a concrete bridge support.
3. The lawsuit alleges a design flaw in the vehicle and claims the emergency braking system failed to activate.
4. The family argues that Tesla did not adequately inform the driver about the safety limitations of the Autopilot system.
5. Tesla has faced multiple complaints regarding its advanced driver-assistance systems, but insists that drivers must remain attentive and in control at all times.
The family of three individuals who tragically died in a car accident in New Jersey has filed a lawsuit against Tesla in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey. The victims lost their lives in a Model S that had its Autopilot feature engaged on September 14, 2024.
Details of the Incident
David Dryerman, who was driving, along with his wife Michele and their daughter Brooke, were returning home from a music festival when their Tesla Model S unexpectedly left the road and collided with a concrete bridge support. At the time of the crash, all three were reportedly secured with seatbelts.
Allegations Against Tesla
According to the lawsuit, the Dryermans’ vehicle drifted out of its lane because of a design flaw. It also claims that the emergency braking system failed to activate, which might have stopped the accident from occurring. The family’s estates assert that Tesla did not inform David of the Model S’s safety limitations. They referenced CEO Elon Musk’s 2016 statement, which suggested that Autopilot was “probably better” than human drivers.
The legal documentation states, “Thousands of Tesla drivers have trusted the company’s ADAS technology as if it could perform safe, fully autonomous driving with just a few software updates, while in reality, it struggles to manage various everyday driving situations without driver intervention.”
Compensation Details
The lawsuit does not outline the specific compensatory and punitive damages sought by the plaintiffs.
Tesla has been the subject of several complaints related to its advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Nevertheless, the company maintains that Autopilot should only be used with the driver fully focused and hands on the steering wheel at all times.
Source:
Link
Tags: Autopilot, Model S, Tesla
June 23, 2025
Model Y Introduces Wipers Routine for Robotaxi and First Responders
Key Takeaways
1. The cabin microphones in Tesla robotaxis are always on to detect emergency vehicle sirens, enhancing safety.
2. Sound detection allows robotaxis to respond to their environment, such as pulling over for approaching emergency vehicles.
3. The system handles sound detection locally and does not store or send data to Tesla without user consent.
4. A demonstration showed a Model Y robotaxi effectively responding to ambulance sirens before passengers noticed.
5. Tesla has introduced a new windshield wiper routine for robotaxis to ensure the FSD cameras have a clear view, enhancing safety during operation.
The cabin camera in a Tesla robotaxi might only activate when support is contacted, yet the microphones are always on.
Why the Microphones Are Active
A recent video featuring a driverless Model Y stopping for an ambulance illustrates this point. During the information session before launching its Robotaxi service in Austin, TX, Tesla explained the necessity of keeping these cabin microphones operational. They are meant to pick up sirens from emergency vehicles, enabling the “unsupervised” Full Self-Driving (FSD) software to react appropriately and pull over.
According to Tesla, sound detection lets the Robotaxi automatically recognize and respond to its surrounding environment, like stopping for nearby sirens and yielding to approaching emergency vehicles. When a safety occurrence is identified, the media volume inside the car decreases, and a notification appears on the center screen for the rider. This sound detection for safety events is handled locally within the vehicle and isn’t linked to your Tesla account. This means the system can’t store or send this data to Tesla, even during a critical safety incident, unless you opt to allow it.
Demonstration of the Feature
A cool example from a nighttime Tesla robotaxi ride demonstrates that this feature functions properly. The Model Y picked up on ambulance sirens before the passengers noticed and moved to the side of the road to let the emergency vehicle through, continuing on to its destination afterward.
Tesla has created additional FSD features for when its vehicles, like the driverless Model Y currently operating in Austin, are in robotaxi mode. For instance, a new cleaning routine for the Model Y’s windshield wipers has been introduced, which makes three passes over the area directly in front of the FSD camera.
Enhanced Cleaning for Safety
The intent is to clear any dust or pollen that might build up and block the camera’s view, even if the windshield appears clean to the passengers, according to Tesla’s Yun-Ta Tsai. He noted that the cleaning is designed for the camera’s perspective, not the passenger’s. While the windshield may seem clear from the passenger side, dust can accumulate over time. Thus, the system proactively cleans periodically. Typically, people don’t notice how Waymo maintains their vehicles since their sensor suite is mounted on the roof, but they clean frequently because even light dust can cause unwanted diffraction patterns for LiDAR systems.
Even though Tesla’s robotaxi mode doesn’t rely on a complicated sensor setup with LiDAR to operate, the FSD cameras still require more frequent cleaning as a safety measure. Tesla hasn’t indicated whether this new windshield wiper routine will be available to regular owners who utilize FSD and could also benefit from this proactive cleaning.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, Robotaxi, Tesla
June 23, 2025
Xiaomi June 26 Event: YU7 SUV, Mix Flip 2, Redmi K80 Ultra & More
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi will launch several new devices, including the Redmi K80 Ultra, Redmi K Pad, Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro, and Xiaomi Mix Flip 2, on June 26 in China.
2. The event will feature Xiaomi’s first electric SUV, the YU7, with impressive specs including a range of 835km and a 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.88 seconds.
3. The Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro will have a 12.5-inch LCD display, 3.2K resolution, and a 10,160mAh battery with 120W charging.
4. The Mix Flip 2 will be Xiaomi’s only foldable smartphone this year, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
5. Additional products like AI Glasses, Open Earphones Pro, Band 10 fitness tracker, and Watch S4 will also be unveiled at the event.
Xiaomi has been hinting at the launch of several new devices, including the Redmi K80 Ultra, Redmi K Pad, Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro, and Xiaomi Mix Flip 2, all set to debut in China. Today, the company confirmed that these gadgets will officially launch on June 26.
Exciting Launch on June 26
The event, which is themed “Human x Car x Home,” will showcase Xiaomi’s first electric SUV, the YU7, alongside the MIX Flip 2, Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro, and a new AI-focused wearable device. The YU7 is designed as a mid-to-large electric SUV, measuring 4999mm in length and boasting a 3000mm wheelbase. Buyers will have a choice of up to nine different colors. The base model is equipped with a single rear motor and a 96.3kWh LFP battery, providing an impressive range of 835km (CLTC) and achieving 0–100km/h in just 5.88 seconds. The Pro and Max versions will feature dual-motor all-wheel drive with outputs of 365kW and 508kW respectively, with the Max model hitting 0–100km/h in only 3.23 seconds, supported by a 101.7kWh NMC battery.
Details on the Xiaomi Pad and Phones
The Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro will run on the company’s own Xring O1 chipset. It will sport a 12.5-inch LCD display with a 3.2K resolution and a refresh rate of 144Hz, along with a robust 10,160mAh battery capable of 120W charging. The Mix Flip 2 is the only foldable smartphone from the brand this year and will come powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The Redmi K80 Ultra is expected to feature the Dimensity 9400 Plus chip, whereas the Redmi K Pad, also using the same processor, will be the brand’s first compact gaming tablet.
Additional Products on the Horizon
According to the tipster Digital Chat Station, the June 26 event will also unveil a range of other products. These include Xiaomi AI Glasses, Open Earphones Pro, the Band 10 fitness tracker, and the Watch S4 (41mm), along with an enigmatic “one more thing.”
Tags: Redmi K80 Ultra, Xiaomi Pad 7S Pro, Xiaomi YU7
June 23, 2025
Uber Reaches 230,000 EVs as Electric Car Costs Decrease
Key Takeaways
1. Over 230,000 Uber drivers are now using electric vehicles (EVs), with a significant growth of 60% occurring from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025.
2. Charging challenges remain, as only about one-third of Uber drivers in the US can charge at home; this is lower in the UK (27%) and Netherlands (13%).
3. Uber is partnering to improve charging access for 55,000 drivers in the US and UK.
4. The company is developing a tool to help cities identify optimal locations for public charging stations.
5. Uber invested $6.73 million in 2022 to install 700 chargers in London, achieving usage rates double the national average.
If you’ve seen a rise in electric Uber vehicles in your area, there’s a reason behind it. A recent study has revealed that the cost of electric cars is no longer the biggest issue for Uber drivers. This information comes from Uber’s first survey in several years.
Growth in Electric Vehicles
According to the popular ride-sharing service, over 230,000 drivers are now using electric vehicles (EVs). A significant portion of this growth, around 60 percent, took place between the first quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, indicating a notable increase in the adoption of EVs.
Charging Challenges
Uber has mentioned that even though the prices of EVs are going down, drivers still encounter many challenges when it comes to charging their cars. They estimate that only about one-third of their drivers in the US have the ability to charge their vehicles at home. The situation is even worse in the UK and Netherlands, with only 27 percent and 13 percent, respectively, having home charging access.
Solutions for Charging Access
To address the charging issues, Uber is taking action. Rebecca Tinucci, who used to work at Tesla and is now leading Uber’s electrification efforts, has established a partnership aimed at improving charging access for 55,000 drivers in the US and UK. Furthermore, the company is creating a tool to help cities figure out the best places to install public charging stations.
Uber is also putting money directly into electric vehicle chargers. For instance, in 2022, the company invested $6.73 million to set up 700 chargers in London, which turned out to be very successful. Some charging points reported usage rates that were double the national average.
Source:
Link
Tags: Charging Infrastructure, electric vehicles, Uber
June 22, 2025
Tesla Canada Offers Free Supercharging with Model 3 Purchase
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is offering one year of free Supercharging with the purchase of a new Model 3 to boost declining sales in Canada.
2. The Model 3 and Model Y are Tesla’s bestsellers, but sales have been negatively impacted by higher prices due to tariffs and changing perceptions of Elon Musk.
3. The promotion includes a 3-month FSD trial for Model 3 purchases delivered by June 30, 2025.
4. Free Supercharging is only available for new Model 3 vehicles and cannot be transferred or applied to used cars or commercial vehicles.
5. The starting price of CA$82,600 for a Model 3 after tariffs may limit the effectiveness of the promotion in attracting buyers.
Tesla has recently introduced free Supercharging for a vehicle that hasn’t seen this offer much before, even though the deal was just found in its app code.
Marketing Tactics in Response to Sales Decline
With a significant decrease in sales in Canada, Tesla’s marketing team has decided to provide free Supercharging for a year with the purchase of each Model 3. This move hints at the potential reasons behind the weak sales figures that will be revealed in their Q2 report.
Bestsellers Under Pressure
The Model 3 and Model Y are the top-selling cars for Tesla and generate most of its income. The Model Y received an update launched in Q2, but the higher prices of Tesla cars in Canada because of tariffs, along with the changing public perception of Elon Musk’s political views, may have negatively impacted the Model 3.
New Offers for Customers
This situation might explain why Tesla is now offering a 3-month FSD trial alongside a year of free Supercharging for any Model 3 purchased and delivered by the end of the quarter, specifically June 30.
To be eligible for one year of free Supercharging, customers must order a new Model 3 and have it delivered by June 30, 2025. Tesla does not ensure availability or delivery by that date and will not make exceptions. The promotion is linked to your Tesla Account and cannot be transferred to another vehicle, person, or order, even if ownership changes. Used cars, business orders, and vehicles used for commercial purposes (like taxis, rideshares, and delivery services) are not included in this deal.
Restrictions on the Promotion
The free Supercharging offer for the Model 3 is only available for new vehicles, including those in its inventory that are still at pre-tariff prices.
Sadly, the starting price of CA$82,600 for a Model 3, which applies to deliveries after tariffs, isn’t very attractive for sales, so it remains uncertain how many Tesla enthusiasts in Canada will be swayed by the free charging promotion.
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Tags: free Supercharging, Model 3, Tesla
June 22, 2025
Volkswagen ID.2 R Leaks: 400bhp AWD Compact Performance EV
Key Takeaways
1. The ID.2 lineup will target the market under $35,000, launching in 2026.
2. The ID.2 GTI will deliver around 286bhp, while the ID.2 R is rumored to reach up to 400bhp.
3. The ID.2 R will be a high-performance hatchback developed by Volkswagen’s R Division.
4. Design innovations for the ID.2 R include reduced weight, increased trunk space, and an all-wheel-drive system.
5. Advanced performance technologies will be integrated into the flagship ID.2 variant, but it may not be available until after 2027.
The ID.2 lineup of upcoming Volkswagen electric vehicles is anticipated to target the market under $35,000 when it launches in 2026. Nonetheless, some variants of this series could be more exciting than the initial price tag suggests.
Exciting Variants
Among these variants is the ID.2 GTI, which is expected to deliver around 286bhp with front-wheel drive. However, it could be overshadowed by its newly rumored sibling, the ID.2 R.
Powerful Performance
As the name indicates, the ID.2 R is set to be a high-performance hatchback developed by Volkswagen’s R Division, with power output potentially reaching up to 400bhp. This model is also expected to debut using the MEB Plus platform, which may enable motors connected directly to each rear wheel.
Design Innovations
The design of the ID.2 R is predicted to feature three significant benefits: it aims to lessen weight, maximize trunk space by positioning a secondary motor away from the storage area, and convert to an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.
The flagship ID.2 variant is also believed to integrate advanced performance technologies, including dynamic drive, predictive torque distribution, and brake-based yaw control modes. However, this model might not be available until after 2027, following the announcement of its X counterpart.
Source:
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Tags: Volkswagen
June 22, 2025
Tesla Launches $4.20 Robotaxi Rides with Driverless Model Y
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has launched its Robotaxi service with driverless rides in Austin using Model Y vehicles, with plans to expand to other cities.
2. The Robotaxi service aims to be more affordable than competitors like Uber and Waymo, with projected costs of $0.20 per mile and fares starting at $0.30/mile.
3. Currently, only a small fleet of Model Y cars are operational in Austin, and rides are initially available by invitation only through a special Robotaxi app.
4. During the introductory phase, Tesla is charging a flat rate of $4.20 per ride within a set area, reflecting Elon Musk’s preference for the number 420.
5. Local lawmakers in Austin are considering licensing procedures for autonomous vehicles, while Tesla has prepared for compliance and has trained first responders on handling Robotaxi situations.
Tesla has officially rolled out its Robotaxi service, starting with driverless rides in a fleet of Model Y vehicles in Austin. They have also set up a specific Robotaxi X account and a signup page for the future expansion to other cities.
Pricing and Competition
The Tesla Robotaxi service aims to be more affordable than its main competitors, Uber and Waymo. Rides can be booked through a special Robotaxi app, which is currently available only on iOS.
At the unveiling of the two-seater Cybercab, Elon Musk projected that operating costs could fall to around $0.20 per mile, with ride fares beginning at just $0.30/mile once fully implemented.
Current Availability
Although these prices are much lower than those of Uber, Lyft, or Waymo, they pertain specifically to Cybercab rides “at scale.” Tesla is still in the early stages of its Robotaxi rollout, with only about a dozen driverless Model Y cars operating in Austin.
Starting June 22, rides during the initial Early Access phase will be available by invitation only. The app isn’t accessible to the general public who might want to try out the driverless Model Y.
Special Rates and Local Regulations
For this introductory period, Tesla plans to charge a flat rate of $4.20 per ride within a designated area, no matter the distance traveled. This price seems to be a playful nod to Elon Musk’s affinity for the number 420. However, the true competitiveness of the Robotaxi service remains uncertain as it expands.
Austin has welcomed a total of six autonomous vehicle services so far, making Tesla’s Robotaxi platform the latest addition. The choice of Texas was strategic, as the state does not have a special permitting process for self-driving vehicles, provided they are registered and insured.
Legislative Changes in Austin
Now, a few local lawmakers have suggested implementing a licensing procedure that requires manufacturers to meet certain compliance standards, such as ensuring communication with law enforcement and first responders in case of an emergency. Tesla proceeded with the Robotaxi launch in Austin after being assured they could meet any new requirements included in the bill before the September 1 deadline.
Tesla has already conducted training sessions with Austin’s first responders on how to handle situations involving Robotaxis. Additionally, the city’s Public Works committee has indicated their support for the service, noting a remarkably low crash incident rate of less than 7% for fully autonomous vehicle operations in the area.
Pilot Launch Details
The pilot launch of the Robotaxi in Austin has been meticulously organized, involving a select group of automotive influencers as passengers, a safety monitor from Tesla seated in the front, and operating within a geofenced area that has been thoroughly mapped ahead of time.
Source:
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Tags: Robotaxi, Tesla Model Y