
Self-Driving Cars: Steering Wheel Debate & Future Regulations
NHTSA head suggests ending steering wheel requirements for fully autonomous vehicles, sparking debate on safety and accessibility for first responders.

NHTSA head suggests ending steering wheel requirements for fully autonomous vehicles, sparking debate on safety and accessibility for first responders.

Donut Laboratory addresses claims that its all-solid-state battery is a supercapacitor. New tests show 98% energy retention over 240 hours, though experts remain cautious about real-world performance.

Geely, Volvo's parent, is rapidly advancing solid-state battery tech, expecting first packs in test EVs this year. While mass market sales are eyed for 2027, Geely's cells boast 400 Wh/kg. Many other automakers are also heavily investing in this "holy grail" energy storage innovation.

Toyota unveils the Hilux BEV, an all-electric pickup with a 59.2 kWh battery, 150-mile range, and diesel/hydrogen options. It boasts a 1,576-pound haul capacity and 3,527-pound towing capacity.

Chery unveils a prototype solid-state battery with 600 Wh/kg energy density, potentially enabling 1300km range. Export controls and competition with BYD & CATL create uncertainty. Solid-state batteries reduce range anxiety.

Grid batteries are revolutionizing energy storage, supporting grids with solar power and providing backup during peak demand. As EV growth slows, battery storage systems (BESS) are rapidly expanding to improve grid reliability.