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This week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced plans to streamline the Part 555 exemption process, aiming to accelerate the deployment of self-driving vehicles that lack traditional controls like steering wheels or pedals. While the details remain somewhat opaque, automakers will still need to demonstrate that these vehicles offer a safety level comparable to conventional cars and that granting exemptions serves the public interest.
The core message from NHTSA is clear: the current exemption process is too slow and complex for vehicles equipped with advanced automated driving systems. The agency’s goal is to make the pathway for these innovative vehicles faster and more efficient.
In other federal agency news, former President Trump issued executive orders related to drone technology and the rapid development of supersonic travel. Interestingly, recent predictions suggest that the ongoing fallout between Trump and Elon Musk remains unpredictable, highlighting the volatile nature of high-profile tech relationships.
Now, let’s dive into some exciting updates from the industry.
**Inside Scoop: Rivian, Jony Ive, and a New Micromobility Venture**
Last week, we revealed that Jony Ive’s design firm, LoveFrom, has been collaborating with Rivian designers on a project codenamed Inder. This effort also involved a specialized skunkworks team that eventually spun out into a separate micromobility startup. While Rivian had applied to trademark the name Inder, they later abandoned it. Sources confirm that LoveFrom contributed its industrial design expertise — including a sleek motor design — but was not involved in the user interface or user experience aspects.
If you have tips or want to share industry insights, reach out to Kirsten Korosec, Sean O’Kane, or Rebecca Bellan via encrypted messaging or email. We’re always eager for scoops and confidential information.
**Deals and Investments**
JetZero, a California-based company pioneering zero-emissions jet aircraft with blended wing technology, is planning a major expansion. They’re set to build a new factory in Greensboro, North Carolina, with a hefty investment of $4.7 billion over the next decade. Backed by venture capital and strategic investors like United Airlines and Alaska Airlines, JetZero will receive over $1.1 billion in state incentives, contingent on creating more than 14,000 jobs between 2027 and 2036. Construction is slated to start in early 2026, with initial deliveries expected in the early 2030s.
Meanwhile, battery materials startup Mitra Chem has secured $15.6 million of a planned $50 million funding round, signaling continued growth in the EV supply chain.
**Autonomous Vehicles and Mobility News**
A recent study shows that Waymo rides in autonomous vehicles cost more than Uber or Lyft, yet customers continue to pay the premium. An app called Obi analyzed this pricing strategy, revealing that Waymo’s fares remain higher regardless of the cost difference.
In the wake of protests in Los Angeles, some Waymo robotaxis became targets of vandalism, with reports of graffiti and damage. Waymo has since removed its vehicles from downtown LA and plans to pursue legal action against those responsible. The incident also raises questions about the use of surveillance footage from Waymo’s extensive sensor arrays and whether authorities have access to this data during protests.
Looking ahead, Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk announced that June 22 will be the launch day for Tesla’s robotaxi service in Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, UK-based startup Wayve and Uber are planning to introduce a fully driverless robotaxi service in London, timed to align with the UK government’s accelerated pilot program launching in spring 2026.
**Electric Vehicles, Batteries, and Charging Innovations**
In the micromobility space, Infinite Machine, a NY-based startup backed by Andreessen Horowitz, unveiled the Olto seated scooter. Priced at $3,495, the Olto boasts a 40-mile range powered by a swappable 48V lithium-ion battery, set to hit the market later this year.
**In-Car Technology Updates**
At Apple’s WWDC 2025, the company announced new features for CarPlay with iOS 26, including widgets and message tapbacks, enhancing the connected driving experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as the future of transportation continues to accelerate!
