Uber Freight is making significant moves to embed artificial intelligence deeply into its supply chain offerings, announcing a suite of expanded AI capabilities designed to optimize logistics tasks for shippers worldwide. Initially introduced quietly in 2023, Uber Freight’s Insights AI is now complemented by more than 30 new AI agents pitched to automate various stages of the freight process. Uber Freight CEO Lior Ron explained the company’s motivation to invest heavily in AI technology, emphasizing its potential to streamline shipping operations and significantly enhance efficiency across the logistics industry.
Meanwhile, Tesla has revealed new limitations around its highly anticipated robotaxi service. CEO Elon Musk outlined plans for the autonomous vehicles to operate solely in geofenced sections of Austin, Texas, that Tesla deems “the safest.” This marks a notable change in strategy for Musk and Tesla, who historically championed the broader applicability of autonomous technology without geographical restrictions. The geofencing decision underscores an emerging cautiousness as real-world robotaxi deployments face public safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny.
Nikola, on the other hand, continues its downward trajectory following its bankruptcy filing in February, with its hydrogen trucks now hitting the auction block. Valued at approximately $114 million, the sale of these vehicles represents one of Nikola’s last efforts to unload remaining assets as the company winds down operations.
In other automotive and transportation news, self-driving startup Aurora confirmed that its autonomous trucks now include onboard “human observers,” responding to a request from partner PACCAR. Unlike safety drivers, these observers will not directly intervene in the event of a problem, raising questions within industry circles regarding their role and exact purpose.
Zoox, an Amazon subsidiary, announced completion of its initial mapping phase in Atlanta, with testing slated to begin later this summer. Similarly, Waymo received regulatory approval from California to expand its robotaxi operations into several additional communities south of San Francisco. Both Waymo and Uber also announced plans for preliminary robotaxi rides in Atlanta for select customers already on waiting lists.
Elsewhere in mobility funding, electric vehicle infrastructure provider SparkCharge secured $15.5 million in its latest equity round, complemented by another $15 million in debt financing. The company, which specializes in fleet vehicle charging services, aims to accelerate its deployment of scalable electrification solutions. Additionally, Luminar Technologies, known for automotive lidar sensors, inked a sizeable deal with Yorkville Advisors Global that could deliver up to $200 million in fresh capital over an 18-month period. The announcement follows recent upheaval at Luminar, including the departure of its founding CEO Austin Russell and ongoing restructuring efforts.
Internationally, Cairo-based Sylndr, an online marketplace for used vehicles, raised $15.7 million to support its expanded offerings in car financing, dealership services, and auto servicing.
Meanwhile, Uber is expanding beyond passenger rides into B2B logistics in India. In partnership with a state-supported network, Uber’s entrance into India’s logistics market aims to challenge the dominance of Walmart- and Amazon-backed Indian ecommerce giant Flipkart.
The U.S. Senate recently took aim at California’s historically stricter air pollution rules, voting to revoke the state’s decades-old waiver allowing it to set tighter vehicle emissions standards. California officials expressed immediate intent to challenge the decision in court, marking a potential regulatory battle ahead.
Finally, in product news, electric bike manufacturer Heybike launched its latest model, the Alpha, priced at $1,699. Designed as an all-terrain, fat-tire e-bike, the Alpha boasts innovations such as a mid-drive motor with torque sensing and improved battery longevity. Early reviews note both the bike’s strong performance and some utility drawbacks: issues with initial assembly, software integration, and components like an awkwardly large horn left room for improvement.
These developments reflect a rapidly evolving landscape in autonomous technology, electric vehicles, and AI-driven supply chain innovation as companies continue to jockey to define the future of transportation.
