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🚄Autowist Report 114

New Rivian Software, Volvo Layoff, Stellantis abandons amazon project

IN TODAY’S REPORT

💼BRIEFING

Top insights and analysis that is moving the needle in the automotive industry

The Tech Replacing Your Mirrors Keeps Getting Recalled And It’s Getting Worse (Link)

✅ Rearview camera systems have become a significant source of recalls, with over 180 recalls issued since their mandatory implementation in the U.S. in 2018.

✅ In 2025 alone, 30 recalls have affected more than 2.8 million vehicles, surpassing the total number from 2024.

✅ Ford leads in the number of recalls, with 35 recalls impacting 4.6 million vehicles since 2018, followed by Stellantis and Nissan.

🔍 The increasing reliance on advanced technology in vehicles underscores the need for robust software quality assurance to ensure safety and reliability.

Porsche Dealers Told to 'Immediately Remove' Select Electric Taycan Models from Sale (Link)

✅ Porsche has instructed dealers in the UK to halt sales of certain used Taycan models due to a potential battery fire risk identified in a previous recall.

✅ The issue pertains to a short circuit within the battery modules, which could lead to thermal events; a software update to monitor battery health is expected by the end of June.

✅ This action follows a series of 12 prior safety recalls for the Taycan, addressing various issues including brake systems and suspension components.

🔍 This situation highlights the challenges automakers face in ensuring battery safety and the importance of proactive measures to address potential risks in electric vehicles.

Rivian Update 2025.18: Here's What We Know (Link)

✅ Rivian is rolling out software update 2025.18, introducing features like Multi-factor Drive, requiring two-factor authentication to start the vehicle.

✅ The update enhances the Rivian Energy app, allowing users to monitor and control energy consumption, precondition the battery, and view charging curves.

✅ Charging algorithms have been optimized to reduce charge times from 10% to 80%, particularly for vehicles with the Max Pack battery.

🔍 This update exemplifies the trend of over-the-air updates enhancing vehicle functionality and security, reflecting the shift towards software-defined vehicles.

"Smartphone of EVs" May Soon Enter Use in Multiple Markets (Link)

✅ Envo has unveiled the Utility Personal Transporter (UPT), a modular electric vehicle designed to serve various functions, from cargo transport to personal mobility.

✅ The UPT features interchangeable modules, four in-wheel electric motors, and a double wishbone suspension, aiming for versatility and adaptability.

✅ Envo plans to introduce the UPT in multiple countries, positioning it as a flexible solution for urban transportation needs.

🔍 The UPT represents a move towards multi-functional electric vehicles, catering to diverse urban mobility requirements and promoting sustainable transport solutions.

Tesla Status Dropping in China as BYD Rises & Xiaomi Soars (Link)

✅ Tesla's popularity in China has declined, with consumer interest dropping from 47% in 2021 to 31% in 2025, according to UBS.

✅ BYD and Xiaomi have gained significant traction, with BYD leading in sales and Xiaomi's SU7 model experiencing strong demand.

✅ Factors contributing to Tesla's decline include intense competition, perceived lag in innovation, and rising national preference for domestic brands.

🔍 Tesla's challenges in China underscore the importance of continuous innovation and local market adaptation in the competitive EV landscape.

Tesla Prototype Spotted at Factory – Sparking Speculation (Link)

✅ A Tesla prototype resembling a Model Y with light camouflage was spotted at the Fremont factory, leading to speculation about a new affordable model.

✅ The prototype could represent a stripped-down Model Y or a Model Y Performance, as Tesla shifts focus from previously planned lower-cost vehicles.

✅ Tesla's strategy involves utilizing existing Model 3/Y platforms to develop new models, aiming to optimize production efficiency.

🔍 This development reflects Tesla's approach to streamlining production and potentially expanding its market reach with more affordable EV options.

$14B in EV, Renewable Projects Scrapped as Tax Credit Fears Grow (Link)

✅ Over $14 billion in U.S. renewable and EV projects have been canceled or delayed in 2025 due to concerns over potential elimination of federal clean energy tax credits.

✅ The uncertainty stems from a proposed tax plan by the Republican-majority Congress, leading to the loss of approximately 10,000 clean energy jobs.

✅ Notable project cancellations include battery factories, hydrogen fuel cell investments, and EV manufacturing facilities, primarily in Republican-led states.

🔍 Policy instability poses a significant threat to the growth and sustainability of the clean energy sector, emphasizing the need for consistent governmental support.

Toyota and Lexus Are Ready To Flood America With New EVs (Link)

✅ Toyota and Lexus plan to introduce seven new electric vehicles (EVs) in North America by mid-2027, including two models to be manufactured in the U.S.

✅ The lineup will feature a three-row SUV and an electric version of the Lexus ES sedan, among others.

✅ Toyota aims for 20% of its U.S. sales to come from plug-in hybrids by 2030, complementing its EV strategy.

🔍 This expansion underscores Toyota's commitment to diversifying its electrified vehicle offerings to meet evolving consumer demands.

Volvo Responds to Tariffs with Layoffs & EX30 Delay (Link)

✅ Volvo announces the elimination of 3,000 jobs, primarily affecting white-collar positions in Sweden, as part of a cost-reduction initiative.

✅ The company cites rising operational costs, slowing EV demand, and global trade uncertainties, including tariffs, as factors influencing this decision.

✅ Production of the EX30 electric crossover will be delayed, with plans to commence manufacturing in Belgium to mitigate tariff impacts.

🔍 Volvo's restructuring reflects the broader automotive industry's need to adapt to economic pressures and shift production strategies in response to global trade dynamics.

Brembo Has a High-Tech Solution to Reduce Brake Dust—but It's Not for Everyone (Link)

✅ Brembo introduces a new braking system designed to significantly reduce brake dust emissions, enhancing environmental sustainability.

✅ The technology is primarily targeted at high-performance vehicles, limiting its immediate applicability to mass-market cars.

✅ This innovation aligns with increasing regulatory focus on non-exhaust emissions from vehicles.

🔍 Brembo's development highlights the industry's ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns beyond tailpipe emissions, though widespread adoption may be gradual.

Nio Group Delivers 23,231 EVs in May: 13,270 Nio, 6,281 Onvo and 3,680 Firefly (Link)

✅ Nio reports 23,231 vehicle deliveries in May, marking a 13.1% year-over-year increase.

✅ Deliveries include 13,270 Nio-branded vehicles, 6,281 from the Onvo sub-brand, and 3,680 from the newly launched Firefly brand.

✅ The Firefly brand, targeting the compact EV segment, achieved significant deliveries in its first full month on the market.

🔍 Nio's diversified brand strategy demonstrates its commitment to capturing various market segments within the EV industry.

Xiaomi YU7 Spotted in Purple as Colour Announcement Nears (Link)

✅ Xiaomi's upcoming YU7 electric SUV has been spotted in a new purple color, ahead of its official launch.

✅ The YU7 features a closed grille design, triangular air inlets, and C-shaped LED taillights, emphasizing its modern aesthetic.

✅ Equipped with Xiaomi's V6s Plus electric motor, the YU7 offers impressive performance metrics, including a 0–100 km/h acceleration in 3.23 seconds for the top variant.

🔍 Xiaomi's entry into the EV market with the YU7 signifies the tech industry's growing influence in automotive innovation.

Good News for Android Auto Users as New Update Starts Rolling Out (Link)

✅ Google releases a new update for Android Auto, addressing previous issues and enhancing user experience.

✅ The update includes bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features to improve connectivity and functionality.

✅ Users can expect a more stable and responsive interface, particularly on wide-screen displays.

🔍 Continuous updates to Android Auto reflect the importance of seamless smartphone integration in modern vehicles.

BYD to Roll Out 15,000 Megawatt Fast Chargers Across China in New Partnership Push (Link)

✅ BYD announces plans to deploy 15,000 megawatt-level fast chargers across China through partnerships with major charging operators.

✅ The initiative aims to enhance EV charging infrastructure, supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles.

✅ BYD's megawatt charging technology can deliver up to 400 km of range in just 5 minutes, significantly reducing charging times.

🔍 This expansion underscores the critical role of robust charging networks in facilitating widespread EV adoption.

General Motors Patents Electric Motorcycle (Link)

✅ General Motors files a patent for a lightweight electric motorcycle, indicating interest in the urban mobility segment.

✅ The design features a vintage-inspired aesthetic with modern electric propulsion, targeting city commuters.

✅ This move aligns with GM's broader strategy to diversify its electric vehicle offerings beyond traditional cars and trucks.

🔍 GM's exploration into electric motorcycles reflects the industry's pursuit of innovative mobility solutions to meet diverse transportation needs.

✅ EV batteries often outlast the vehicles they're in, retaining significant capacity even after the car is decommissioned.

✅ These batteries are increasingly being repurposed for grid storage and other applications, extending their useful life.

✅ The high value of battery materials makes recycling a viable option, reducing environmental impact and supporting material reuse.

🔍 This trend underscores the importance of developing robust battery recycling and repurposing infrastructures to support sustainable EV growth.

Mazda's Electric SUV Hits Dealerships with 20K Pre-Orders in China (Link)

✅ Mazda's EZ-60 electric SUV, developed with Changan Auto, has received over 20,000 pre-orders in China.

✅ The vehicle boasts a 600 km range, advanced features like a 3D head-up display, and is tailored for Chinese consumers.

✅ Mazda plans to launch the EZ-60 globally, including in Europe as the CX-6e, starting next year.

🔍 This success highlights the growing competitiveness of joint-venture EVs in China and the strategic importance of local partnerships in the EV market.

BYD Passes Tesla in Europe as Chinese EV Maker Gains Ground (Link)

✅ In April 2025, BYD sold more battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Europe than Tesla for the first time.

✅ BYD's success is attributed to its diverse model lineup and competitive pricing, while Tesla faces challenges with an aging lineup and brand perception issues.

✅ Tesla's European sales dropped by nearly 50% year-over-year, signaling a shift in consumer preferences.

🔍 This milestone indicates the rising influence of Chinese EV manufacturers in global markets and the need for established brands to innovate continuously.

Volkswagen CEO Flags 'Massive' US Investments in Tariff Talks (Link)

✅ Volkswagen plans to make significant investments in the US to mitigate the impact of potential auto import tariffs.

✅ CEO Oliver Blume describes ongoing discussions with the US government as constructive and fair, aiming to reduce the current 25% auto import tariff.

✅ The company emphasizes its substantial US presence, including a $5.8 billion investment in Rivian and employment of over 75,000 people.

🔍 This move reflects the strategic importance of localizing production to navigate trade policies and maintain competitiveness in key markets.

Volvo Cars and Google Expand Partnership with Gemini Integration (Link)

✅ Volvo is integrating Google's Gemini AI into its vehicles, enhancing voice interaction and in-car assistance capabilities.

✅ The partnership positions Volvo as a lead development partner for Android Automotive OS, allowing early access to new features.

✅ Gemini will enable natural language tasks like message drafting, navigation, and vehicle information queries.

🔍 This collaboration exemplifies the shift towards AI-driven, software-defined vehicles, emphasizing the role of tech partnerships in automotive innovation.

Nissan Recalls Over 79,000 Vehicles for Rear Visibility Issues (Link)

✅ Nissan is recalling approximately 79,000 Frontier and Kicks models due to a software issue affecting the rearview camera display.

✅ The malfunction can lead to the camera image not displaying, increasing the risk of accidents.

✅ Dealers will provide a free software update to address the problem, with notifications starting in July 2025.

🔍 This recall underscores the critical importance of software reliability in modern vehicles and the need for rigorous quality control in automotive electronics.

TSMC Will Open European Chip Design Centre in Munich, Germany (Link)

✅ TSMC plans to open a chip design center in Munich by Q3 2025, focusing on automotive, AI, and IoT applications.

✅ The center aims to support European clients in developing high-performance, energy-efficient chips, enhancing regional semiconductor capabilities.

✅ This initiative complements TSMC's ongoing project in Dresden, collaborating with companies like Infineon, NXP, and Bosch.

🔍 TSMC's expansion into Europe signifies a strategic move to bolster local semiconductor development, crucial for technological sovereignty and supply chain resilience.

S&P Global Ratings Revises Volvo Cars Outlook to Negative (Link)

✅ S&P Global Ratings has revised Volvo Cars' outlook to negative, citing challenges in the EV transition and profitability pressures.

✅ The revision reflects concerns over slowing EV demand, increased competition, and the company's ability to maintain financial performance.

✅ Volvo's strategic initiatives, including cost-cutting measures and product portfolio adjustments, are under close observation.

🔍 This outlook change highlights the financial risks associated with the automotive industry's shift to electrification and the need for agile adaptation strategies.

NIO Is Ensuring Drivers Stay Awake During Assisted Driving (Link)

✅ NIO has introduced a driver monitoring system that detects driver incapacitation and initiates safety protocols.

✅ The system can gradually reduce speed, change lanes, and activate emergency services if the driver is unresponsive.

✅ Additional features include enhanced obstacle recognition and autonomous parking garage navigation without relying on maps.

🔍 NIO's advancements demonstrate the integration of active safety features in assisted driving, emphasizing the importance of driver engagement and system redundancy in semi-autonomous vehicles.

Nissan Recalls Nearly 80,000 Trucks and Crossovers for Software Issue (Link)

✅ Nissan is recalling around 80,000 Frontier and Kicks vehicles due to a software issue affecting the rearview camera display.

✅ The glitch can cause the camera feed to fail, posing a safety risk and violating federal safety standards.

✅ Affected owners will receive a free software update starting July 2025.

🔍 Reflects the rising importance of robust software testing in modern vehicles as electronic systems become central to safety compliance.

Amazon and Stellantis Abandon Project to Create a Digital SmartCockpit (Link)

✅ Amazon and Stellantis have ended their SmartCockpit collaboration, originally meant to integrate Alexa and Amazon services into vehicles.

✅ The decision follows internal strategic shifts, including Stellantis’ operational restructuring.

✅ Stellantis will still use Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Alexa voice support in other areas.

🔍 Highlights the complexity of tech-automaker partnerships, especially in developing and scaling software-defined in-car experiences.

Hertz Slashing Prices: Maserati Grecales Discounts (Link)

✅ Hertz is offering steep discounts on its fleet of Maserati Grecale SUVs, slashing prices by as much as $30,000.

✅ Many of the vehicles have low mileage and are from the 2023 model year.

✅ The company is looking to move away from luxury vehicles, likely due to maintenance costs and resale challenges.

🔍 Underscores the residual value struggles of luxury EVs and changing fleet management strategies in a shifting economic landscape.

QNX Launches QNX Hypervisor 8.0 to Accelerate Embedded Software Development (Link)

✅ BlackBerry QNX has launched Hypervisor 8.0, enabling developers to run multiple OS environments securely on a single chip.

✅ The platform enhances performance, safety, and scalability for complex automotive software systems.

✅ It's tailored for ADAS, digital cockpits, and next-gen ECUs.

🔍 Reflects the growing demand for modular and secure software stacks, critical to enabling future autonomous and software-defined vehicles.

Rivian Secures $1B Infusion from VW After Meeting Q2 Profit Goal (Link)

✅ Rivian has received $1 billion from Volkswagen, triggered by hitting its Q2 profitability milestone.

✅ The funding will help scale production and enable collaboration on shared EV architecture.

✅ The partnership aims to combat tariff pressures and component cost challenges.

🔍 Signals a deepening alliance strategy as legacy automakers team up with EV startups to accelerate development and manage risk.

Volvo Cars Slashing 3K Jobs Globally (Link)

✅ Volvo is laying off 15% of its workforce (around 3,000 employees) as part of a $1.8B cost-cutting initiative.

✅ The job cuts primarily affect white-collar roles and are focused in Sweden.

✅ This comes amid slower EV demand and increasing software investment costs.

🔍 Illustrates how economic pressure and electrification transition costs are forcing legacy automakers into aggressive restructuring.

Pioneer Unveils Cutting-Edge R&D Centre in Bengaluru (Link)

✅ Pioneer India has opened an R&D center in Bengaluru focused on ADAS, HMI, and AI-based mobility technologies.

✅ It will work with global OEMs and aftermarket clients, targeting both four- and two-wheeler markets.

✅ The facility aligns with Pioneer’s goal of driving automotive software innovation from India.

🔍 Signals India’s rising role as a global R&D hub, especially in the shift to software-defined vehicle platforms.

Software-Defined Vehicle? Not in Europe! (Link)

✅ The article critiques Europe’s regulatory model, which locks in vehicle software at the type-approval stage.

✅ This model prevents post-production innovation, stifling agile development and continuous updates.

✅ The author argues for systemic reform to enable true software-defined vehicle ecosystems.

🔍 Exposes how outdated regulatory frameworks can hinder Europe’s competitiveness in the software-led mobility transition.

Volvo Suspends US Production as Trouble Keeps Rolling In (Link)

✅ Volvo has halted production at its South Carolina plant, citing supply chain shortages affecting the EX90 SUV.

✅ The pause follows a series of delays, including Lidar integration issues and recent workforce cuts.

✅ Volvo has not confirmed a restart date for production.

🔍 Demonstrates the fragility of EV supply chains and the compounding risks facing automakers scaling new models.

CATL Claims a Technology Breakthrough Will Double the Lifespan of Lithium Metal Batteries (Link)

✅ CATL says its latest lithium metal battery breakthrough can double battery life without sacrificing energy density.

✅ The improvement could significantly boost EV longevity and overall cost-effectiveness.

✅ The company hasn’t disclosed commercial launch timelines yet.

🔍 Marks a potential leap forward in battery durability, a critical factor in EV lifecycle economics and consumer confidence.