Waymo Costs & TechCrunch Mobility Analysis
- The National highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working to expedite the Part 555 exemption process, aiming to accelerate the deployment of self-driving vehicles lacking traditional human controls.
- Manufacturers will still need to demonstrate that these autonomous vehicles (AVs) provide a level of safety equivalent to conventional vehicles and that granting the exemption serves the public...
- In related news, JetZero, a zero-emissions jet aircraft company, intends to establish a factory in Greensboro, N.C.The company plans to invest $4.7 billion over the next decade,according to...
NHTSA to Streamline Self-Driving Vehicle Exemption Process
The National highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working to expedite the Part 555 exemption process, aiming to accelerate the deployment of self-driving vehicles lacking traditional human controls. The agency contends that the current process is lengthy and complex, hindering innovation in automated driving system-equipped vehicles.
Manufacturers will still need to demonstrate that these autonomous vehicles (AVs) provide a level of safety equivalent to conventional vehicles and that granting the exemption serves the public interest. The move comes amid growing interest and investment in self-driving technology and micromobility startups.
In related news, JetZero, a zero-emissions jet aircraft company, intends to establish a factory in Greensboro, N.C.The company plans to invest $4.7 billion over the next decade,according to The Wall Street Journal.The project is expected to begin in the first half of 2026, with initial customer deliveries slated for the early 2030s.
The deal hinges on North Carolina providing over $1.1 billion in state performance incentives over nearly 40 years, contingent on JetZero creating more than 14,000 jobs between 2027 and 2036, Reuters reported.
Mitra Chem, a battery material startup focused on cheaper domestic battery materials, has raised $15.6 million toward a planned $50 million funding round.
Notable Reads
Waymo’s autonomous vehicle rides consistently cost more than uber or Lyft, yet customers are still willing to pay the premium, according to data from Obi, an app that compares ride-hailing prices.
Following incidents of vandalism during protests in Los Angeles, Waymo removed its vehicles from the downtown area and intends to pursue legal action against those responsible. The incidents have also raised questions about data privacy and the use of camera footage from Waymo vehicles.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced a target launch date of June 22 for Tesla’s robotaxi service in Austin, Texas.
Wayve and Uber are planning to launch a fully driverless robotaxi service in London,following the U.K. government’s accelerated framework for self-driving commercial pilots,expected to roll out in spring 2026.
Infinite Machine, backed by A16Z, has unveiled a seated electric scooter called Olto, priced at $3,495, with a 40-mile range and swappable battery.
Apple recently revealed car-related updates during its WWDC 2025 event, including the addition of widgets and message tapbacks to CarPlay with iOS 26.
What’s next
The transportation sector continues to evolve rapidly, with advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and enduring aviation. Further developments are expected as companies and governments invest in these technologies.