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Welcome back to TechCrunch Mobility, your go-to source for updates and insights on the future of transportation.
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend SXSW in Austin, where discussions around generative AI dominated the scene. Amidst the buzz, the future of transportation also remained a key topic of conversation for various stakeholders. From autonomous vehicles in urban settings to technologies addressing traffic congestion and emissions reduction, the discourse was vibrant.
An engaging dialogue between Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi caught my attention. Khosrowshahi shared his vision for a greener, more affordable Uber that could potentially rival Amazon in the future, especially now that Uber has achieved profitability.
At the event, Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana announced plans to launch a robotaxi service in Los Angeles and Austin, with the service expected to roll out in Austin later this summer.
Now, let’s dive into the highlights of the week!
A Glimpse of the Future
EV startup Fisker is exploring new avenues by shifting its sales strategy towards dealership partnerships, following some challenges in 2023. However, recent developments indicate that certain dealer relationships may be on shaky ground, potentially impacting Fisker’s future plans.
Meanwhile, the investment landscape in the autonomous vehicle sector continues to heat up. Noteworthy fundraise activities include a substantial $250 million raise by autonomous vehicle software company Applied Intuition, signaling strong investor confidence in AI-driven automotive solutions.
Additionally, various startups in the mobility space, including Anaphite, inDrive, Joyride, Motional, and Telo, have secured significant funding rounds, further underscoring the industry’s potential for growth and innovation.
Insights and Innovations
From advancements in autonomous vehicles with partnerships like Apptronik and Mercedes-Benz to breakthroughs in battery technology by startups like Coreshell, the mobility sector continues to witness rapid evolution and expansion.
Notable developments include India‘s policy shift towards lower import taxes on electric vehicles, potentially boosting opportunities for companies like Tesla looking to enter the market. However, legal battles like the trademark dispute faced by Lucid Motors highlight the complexities of navigating the regulatory landscape.
Ride-hailing giants Uber and Lyft made headlines by exiting Minneapolis over a minimum wage law, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing the gig economy.
Exploring Tomorrow’s Possibilities
Image Credits: Kirsten Korosec
My firsthand experience with a self-driving VW ID Buzz prototype during my visit to Austin provided valuable insights into the advancements made by VW ADMT in the autonomous driving space. As industry players like VW and Mobileye chart innovative paths towards driverless systems, the future holds promise for transformative mobility solutions.
Despite a few hiccups along the way, such as unexpected encounters with human-driven vehicles, the journey towards fully autonomous vehicles continues to unfold with each milestone achieved.
