This week's lead
Tesla renames 'Full Self-Driving' to 'Assisted Driving'
TechCrunch · Oct 9, 2026
The name change is enough for Germany's transport minister to start advocating for Europe-wide adoption of the driver assistance software.
Read at TechCrunch ↗From the editor
After a decade of insisting that "Full Self-Driving" was a perfectly fine name for a system that needs you watching the road at all times, Tesla has surrendered. It changed because Germany's transport minister called the old name misleading, and Tesla decided EU-wide approval was worth more than the branding.
Also this week3 stories
Automotive World · Oct 8, 2026
Xpeng robotaxi named Xpeng Yoyo as public sign-ups open | Automotive World
The Xpeng robotaxi model leaves fleets to partners, betting the money in autonomy lies in selling the technology
Read at Automotive World ↗
Volvo · Oct 5, 2026
Volvo and Waabi Kick Off Customer Operations in Texas, Starting with Warp
Integration of the Volvo VNL Autonomous powered by the Waabi Driver into Warp’s network unlocks autonomy for LTL freight segment
Read at Volvo ↗
Engadget · Oct 3, 2026
California will fine robotaxi companies if their vehicles block first responders
California Senate Bill 1246, which will establish local penalties for robotaxi companies if their vehicles block first responders
Read at Engadget ↗Watch1 video · plays here
Lesson of the week
Waymo vs Tesla: Two Bets on Autonomy
With the launch of Tesla's Cybercab, the different approaches to autonomy, debated mostly verbally till now, are put to the test.
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