The autonomous vehicle industry is showing progress with key developments:
- Gatik & Loblaw Partnership: Gatik is expanding its partnership with Loblaw to deploy 20 autonomous trucks by 2025 for driverless deliveries in the Toronto area, with plans to add 30 more by 2026. These trucks will handle the full regional network, picking up products from distribution centers and delivering to over 300 retail stores.
- Kodiak AI Goes Public: Kodiak Robotics, now Kodiak AI, began trading on Nasdaq after merging with Ares Acquisition Corporation II, valuing the company at $2.5 billion. They raised $275 million in financing, with founder Don Burnette emphasizing the importance of public markets for scaling autonomous driving technology and the company's focus on defense applications.
- Supernal's Reorganization: Hyundai's electric air taxi startup, Supernal, is undergoing a C-suite reorganization with the departure of key executives, including Jaeyong Song and Tracy Lamb.
- Anode Technology Company's New Venture: The founders of bankrupt Moxion Power have launched Anode Technology Company, which raised $9 million in seed funding for mobile batteries and inverters.
- Other Notable Deals: Rapido's valuation doubled to $2.3 billion, and Telo raised $20 million to build tiny electric trucks.
- Hacks and Investigations: Stellantis confirmed a data breach, and the NHTSA is investigating Rivian over seat belt issues.
- EV Production Adjustments: Automakers are adjusting EV production plans, with Honda ending U.S. production of the Acura ZDX and Stellantis canceling plans for an electrified Jeep Gladiator.