TechCrunch Mobility serves as a primary source for news and insights related to the future of transportation. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to TechCrunch Mobility for free by visiting their newsletter page.
Before delving into recent transportation news, TechCrunch highlights a few noteworthy articles on Elon Musk, the CEO and largest shareholder of Tesla, and the founder of SpaceX and Neuralink. An earlier investigation by TechCrunch, published in February, examined individuals involved in Elon Musk’s DOGE universe, focusing on the Department of Government Efficiency. This entity was established through an executive order by former President Trump. A subsequent report by a different TechCrunch team explores the founders and venture capitalists collaborating with DOGE.
In a related development, Musk’s close associate, former President Trump, has imposed a 25% tariff on all cars imported into the United States, including those from Mexico and Canada, as well as certain auto parts. Reporter Sean O’Kane notes that this decision may significantly increase car prices but could benefit Tesla, a company under Musk’s leadership and one of his primary financial backers during the presidential election.
Furthermore, Trevor Milton, the founder of the now-bankrupt hydrogen trucking startup Nikola, who had been convicted of fraud, has received a presidential pardon from Trump, as confirmed by the White House to TechCrunch. The confirmation involved a lengthy wait before official acknowledgment.
Moving on to other news, sources indicate that Lucid is seeking partnerships to enhance its autonomy capabilities, especially with the new Gravity SUV. Speculations suggest potential collaborations with Mobileye or other automated driving technology providers.
In terms of business developments, TechCrunch has been acquired by private investment firm Regent. While financial details were not disclosed, Yahoo Holdings, the previous owner, retains a minor stake. This acquisition follows Regent’s recent purchase of Foundry, publisher of tech outlets like PCWorld and Macworld.
Other noteworthy transactions include BetterFleet securing $15 million in Series A funding for EV charging fleet management software, The Bot Company raising $150 million led by Greenoaks, DeCharge obtaining $2.5 million for its EV charging infrastructure, Fleetio amassing $450 million to acquire Auto Integrate, and Manna raising $30 million for drone delivery operations.
In the realm of autonomous vehicles, Waymo plans to offer robotaxi services in Washington, D.C., via the Waymo One app starting in 2026, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
Regarding electric vehicles, BYD’s recent announcement on EV charging developments prompted further investigation by TechCrunch. Cadillac revealed its Optiq SUV with opportunities for test drives, while Revel opened its first fast-charging hub in San Francisco. Additionally, Rivian is launching an electric micromobility startup named Also, supported by $105 million from Eclipse Ventures.
In the in-car tech space, Waze has removed Google Assistant from its iOS platform due to persistent issues and intends to introduce an enhanced voice interaction solution soon.
