EV Daily | Tesla's Robotaxi Launch & BYD's Luxury Sedan Spark Global EV Competition

【Tesla】

Tesla is preparing to launch its robotaxi service in Austin with a level 4 autonomous driving system, contrasting with its current level 2 system. This rollout, planned for June 22, comes after years of promises from Tesla CEO Elon Musk. In other news, Tesla plans multiple production shutdowns at Gigafactory Texas for the Model Y and Cybertruck, aiming for maintenance and improvements. The company faces declining deliveries and rising inventory in the US, with significant overflow lots storing unsold vehicles. Sales of the Cybertruck are also faltering despite discounts, and Tesla continues to offer attractive leasing options to manage inventory levels. Additionally, Tesla is preparing to sell its upcoming Tesla Semi truck in Europe, with production expected to start in the US at the end of 2025. The European rollout is anticipated later in 2026, with plans for production at Gigafactory Berlin.

【BYD】

BYD has delivered its new luxury electric sedan, the Yangwang U7, in China. This flagship model features advanced smart systems and a high-powered performance, positioning it as a competitor to traditional luxury brands.

【Others】

Nissan has launched a reimagined version of the LEAF as a 2026 model year crossover, incorporating modern upgrades like a NACS port and improved battery configurations. GM is developing a drone-assisted towing system to aid inexperienced drivers, aiming to enhance safety and handling for vehicles towing trailers. Ferrari is delaying the launch of its second EV model due to low demand for electric sports cars, despite introducing its first fully electric vehicle this year. ChargeLab has released OpenOCPP, an open-source software stack for EV chargers, simplifying the integration with charging station management systems. Kempower is shipping its high-powered EV charging solution from Finland, delivering megawatt-level charging to electric cars and trucks. Lucid Motors has rolled out Android Auto for its Air vehicles via a software update, with plans to expand production of its electric vehicles. Honda is showcasing its new entry-level electric vehicle concept, the Super EV, which will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Suzuki has announced pricing for its first EV, the e Vitara, developed with Toyota, entering the competitive electric SUV market with diverse battery and drivetrain options. Waymo is expanding its driverless taxi service areas in California, increasing its service reach by 50% in the state, though still not connecting key locations like airports. Urban Arrow has launched the FamilyNext Pro electric cargo bike in North America, designed for family use with significant hauling capacity and advanced safety features. Honda has introduced the Fastport eQuad, a micromobility vehicle designed for bike lanes, offering a new solution for urban last-mile delivery services. Mumbai is purchasing 11 Candela P-12 electric ferries for its waterways, aiming to reduce travel times and emissions with this fleet of hydrofoil-equipped vessels.