EV Daily | Tesla Unveils 6-Seater Model YL Amid Autopilot Trial; Rivian Expands AI Efforts in UK

【Tesla】

Tesla has introduced the Model YL, a larger 6-seater version of the Model Y, on China's Weibo, and it will be available this fall. The announcement comes after posting on China’s MIIT website for regulatory approval. There are concerns that Tesla's strategy of selling different trims of existing models may not be enough to compete in China, where BYD dominates due to its diverse offerings. Additionally, Tesla engineer Akshay Phatak testified in court that Tesla did not maintain Autopilot crash records before March 2018. This trial, involving a fatal crash with a Model S in Autopilot mode, is the first of its kind to go to court. Tesla's communication about Autopilot is under scrutiny for potentially leading drivers to misuse the system.



【BYD】

Toyota's electric SUV is similar in size to the BYD Yuan Plus, known as Atto 3 overseas.



【Others】

Rivian is expanding to the UK, focusing on AI development to enhance autonomous features in their EVs. The American automaker plans to open an AI hub in London to leverage the UK's expertise in artificial intelligence. The work done at this hub will contribute to Rivian's vehicles improving through OTA updates. Rivian's new international office showcases its commitment to evolving autonomous driving technology. Meanwhile, Rivian extends its lease deals on R1S and R1T models, offering savings combined with federal tax credits. Toyota's bZ3X electric SUV, priced around $15,000, is selling well in China due to a locally-made EV motor. In June, it was the best-selling foreign brand EV in China, aided by its competitive pricing strategy.