OTA updates, app changes, autopilot, and tech feature rollouts.
We publish software stories when there is a verified update worth a reader's time — then add context about cost, eligibility, charging access, ownership impact, or what to watch next.
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Tesla's Grok feature has expanded its control capabilities, allowing users to manage more functions directly through voice commands. While many features are now accessible, some still require the mic button for activation. Upcoming enhancements include the ability to send texts and issue Full Self-Driving commands.
Hyundai Motor Group has unveiled its future mobility technology roadmap during the FISITA World Mobility Summit 2026, focusing on electrification and AI-driven vehicle development. This initiative aims to enhance software-defined vehicles, autonomous driving, and energy infrastructure. The roadmap is significant for the automotive industry, as it sets the stage for advancements in vehicle technology and sustainability.
XPENG, in collaboration with academic partners, has launched GroundingPI, an open-source visual perception model for Physical AI. The model, featuring 4 billion parameters, scored 73.68 on 34 perception benchmarks, surpassing the previous best, GPT-6 Astra. This development could enhance AI applications in various sectors, including automotive.
Hyundai has announced a recall of nearly 30,000 Kona Electric vehicles due to a software defect that may prevent airbags from deploying in the event of a crash. This recall affects owners of the Kona Electric model, and Hyundai is expected to provide a solution to rectify the issue. Owners are advised to stay informed about the next steps from Hyundai.
Tesla has introduced a new software wishlist page where owners can submit and vote on feature requests they want to see in their vehicles. This initiative allows Tesla owners to directly influence software updates and improvements. The feature is currently available for all Tesla owners.
EcoG, based in Munich, has partnered with Siemens to develop a new generation of software for electric vehicle (EV) chargers. This collaboration aims to support manufacturers of fast charging hardware, enhancing the efficiency and functionality of EV charging solutions. As EcoG becomes an official Siemens Product Partner, this partnership could lead to more advanced charging technologies in the market.
VW and Skoda are launching an over-the-air software update that introduces battery preconditioning for their ID.4, ID.5, and Enyaq electric vehicles. This feature, which has been anticipated for years, aims to improve charging efficiency and performance. The update will benefit existing owners of these models, enhancing their day-to-day EV experience.
Tesla has implemented a software update for Australian Powerwall owners that disables the use of third-party equipment for home power backup. This change primarily affects existing Tesla owners in Australia, limiting their options for home energy management. The update raises questions about control over battery systems and the implications for user autonomy.
SpaceX has chosen Qualcomm to power its Starlink Mobile network, which will feature 5G base stations across the U.S. The rollout is set to begin in 2027, with plans for tens of thousands of sites. This partnership aims to enhance mobile connectivity using Starlink's satellite technology.
Waymo has announced the termination of its robotaxi partnership with Uber, shifting to operate its own ride-hailing service through a dedicated app in Austin and Atlanta. This change will affect riders who previously relied on Uber's platform to access Waymo's autonomous vehicles. The full implications for service availability and rider experience are still unfolding.
General Motors (GM) has announced a recall affecting more than 67,000 Cadillac and Chevy electric vehicles due to a software glitch that can lead to a temporary loss of braking. This recall impacts specific models, and owners are advised to monitor updates from GM regarding the resolution of this issue.
A recent report reveals that 99% of Tesla vehicles imported into South Korea last year are unable to activate the Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, despite owners having paid for it. This situation has led to a complaint against Tesla, highlighting the gap between promised features and actual usability for consumers in the region.
SpaceX has entered a multi-year agreement with Qualcomm Technologies to build a nationwide terrestrial 5G network for Starlink Mobile in the U.S. This partnership aims to challenge existing telecom giants like AT&T and Verizon. The agreement includes the provision of essential infrastructure components such as radios and software.
Moba, a battery data specialist, has introduced a Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) report aimed at helping dealers, remarketers, and fleet operators. This report provides crucial information about electric vehicle fault codes and battery data, enhancing the ability to diagnose issues effectively. The report is particularly beneficial for those managing fleets of electric vehicles.
A South Korean consumer group is filing a complaint against Tesla for marketing its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature to customers whose vehicles cannot legally operate it. According to Tesla's own figures, this affects 99% of the Teslas sold in Korea last year. This complaint follows a recent court ruling that dismissed a refund lawsuit from affected owners.
Tesla's Full Self-Driving feature has been renamed to Tesla Assisted Driving (TAD) in Europe, following new adjustments approved by the Netherlands' vehicle authority, RDW, on November 3. These changes may impact how the system operates and its regulatory compliance in the region.
Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature in Europe has seen a significant change, with the maximum speed offset now reduced from +50% to +10%. This adjustment comes after the Dutch RDW approved a new name for the FSD program and is part of broader changes ahead of an EU vote in December. The implications of this change will affect Tesla owners and potential buyers in Europe.
Tesla has updated its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in Europe, reducing the speed margin from 50% to 10% over the speed limit. This change affects drivers using Tesla Assisted Driving, which was previously known as FSD Supervised. The update aligns with regulations set by the Netherlands' RDW and Germany.
BMW plans to expand its partially automated driving capabilities into urban environments starting in 2027, with the launch first in Germany. The Level 2 driver assist system will help with various driving tasks but requires drivers to remain attentive. This development positions BMW as a competitor to Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities.
BMW plans to launch its Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in 2027. This system will be able to navigate turns, lane changes, city traffic, and roundabouts. The introduction of this technology could significantly enhance the driving experience for BMW EV owners.
Ford has announced a new feature called 'Quasi-80s Mode' that allows owners of connected cars to limit data collection and enhance privacy. This mode effectively dumbs down the vehicle's connectivity features, giving users more control over their data. This change primarily affects Ford owners who are concerned about privacy in the digital age.
BMW plans to roll out navigation-guided, partially automated driving features in urban areas starting in 2027, beginning in Germany. These features will assist with various driving tasks but will only function when the driver remains attentive. The expansion will gradually include other countries after the initial launch.
Tesla's recent software update 2026.38 has introduced Grok files to Intel Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. This addition suggests that Tesla may be preparing to enable Grok functionality in older models, although it remains unclear if and when this feature will be activated for users.
Elon Musk has stated that SpaceX's upcoming orbital data centers will be significantly more advanced than current Earth-based facilities, which he referred to as 'peanuts.' The company aims to have these data centers operational by 2028, with a focus on improving capital expenditure efficiency. This development could impact the future of data processing and storage in the space industry.
The AI sector in China has experienced a significant decline, with valuations dropping by half a trillion dollars. This downturn reflects the broader concerns regarding the profitability of AI companies, which have been heavily reliant on hype rather than sustainable growth. The implications of this decline may extend to various sectors, including electric vehicles (EVs), as investment priorities shift.
A recent road trip from Northern Wisconsin to Northern Utah marked the first cross-country journey in a 2026 Tesla Model Y equipped with Full Self-Driving V14. This trip follows the owner's previous vehicle, a 2019 Tesla Model 3, which was totaled in an accident earlier this year. The experience highlights the advancements in Tesla's autonomous driving technology and its implications for long-distance travel.
Tesla is set to release an update for its mobile app to enhance compatibility with Android foldable devices. Currently, the app's big-screen layout does not always activate on these devices, but a Tesla engineer has confirmed that layout breakpoints will be refined in the upcoming update. This change will primarily benefit Android foldable users who rely on the app for vehicle management.
A new fan-made browser game allows players to pilot Tesla's upcoming Roadster, utilizing its thrusters to perform various maneuvers against seven rivals. This game, built using Three.js, is accessible directly through web browsers, providing an interactive experience for Tesla enthusiasts. However, it is important to note that this is a fan project and not an official Tesla release.
Rivian plans to integrate AI technology into its vehicles, allowing them to order coffee and automate service visits starting in 2027. This feature will primarily benefit Rivian owners, enhancing convenience in their daily routines. Specific details about the functionality and limitations of these features are still forthcoming.
Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, announced that an enhanced service experience featuring AI-powered coffee runs and service visits will be available in 2027. This update is aimed at improving the overall ownership experience for Rivian vehicle owners. Specific details regarding the functionality and limitations of these features have yet to be fully disclosed.
Toyota and Waymo have announced the next phase of their collaboration aimed at advancing autonomous driving technology. This initiative builds on a preliminary agreement from April 2025 and will focus on testing and validating autonomous vehicle operations. The collaboration aims to enhance road safety and improve mobility options for all users.
Rivian is set to roll out its point-to-point hands-free driving feature for employee testing in 2026, with plans for a customer launch in 2027. This initiative is part of Rivian's broader strategy to introduce robotaxi services in partnership with Uber by 2028. The success of these autonomous features will be critical for Rivian's future in the competitive EV market.
Tesla has announced an extension of its Robotaxi service hours to 2 AM, allowing for late-night rides. Additionally, a new 'Calm Mode' has been introduced, which hides Full Self-Driving (FSD) visuals for a more relaxed experience. This update will primarily affect users of Tesla's Robotaxi service, although specific details about its rollout and availability remain unclear.
Tesla has introduced a new 'quiet mode' feature for its Model Y Robotaxis, allowing passengers to black out the screen for a more restful experience while napping. This update specifically targets riders who wish to sleep during their journey. Currently, it is unclear if this feature will be available for other Tesla models or future updates.
Rivian has announced an expansion of its joint venture with Volkswagen (VW) to incorporate the development of an AI assistant for its electric vehicles. While the joint venture is valued at $5.8 billion, Rivian has not disclosed whether this expansion will alter the financial terms. This development primarily affects Rivian's EV owners and potential buyers as it aims to enhance user experience through advanced technology.
Optimo Energy has been selected by SEE Services to provide its Fleet Energy Operating System for the London Ambulance Service's electric vehicle (EV) charging program. This partnership aims to enhance the management of the ambulance service's EV fleet, although specific details about the implementation timeline and technology integration are not yet available.
Tesla's recent software update version 2026.38.5.1 has rendered third-party Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) adapters incompatible, causing them to shut off within minutes of use. This change affects Tesla owners who have relied on these adapters for power supply needs. The update ends a workaround that many users had utilized for years.
Sterling Anderson, former head of Tesla's Autopilot program, has criticized Tesla's decision to rely solely on camera-based systems for self-driving technology, labeling it a 'weird religious stance' that disregards physics. This criticism comes as Tesla is deploying camera-only Cybercabs for driverless service in Austin, raising questions about the safety and effectiveness of such systems.
Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system was tested on some of Bratislava's most difficult streets, revealing both its capabilities and limitations. While it successfully navigated steep hills and narrow gaps, it struggled with missed traffic signs and required driver intervention. This highlights the ongoing need for human supervision in certain driving conditions.
Waymo for Business has announced its integration with Ramp, a financial management platform, to streamline expense management for organizations using its autonomous ride-hailing service. This change aims to enhance the convenience and reliability of transportation for businesses and their employees. Specific details regarding pricing or eligibility criteria for this integration have not been disclosed.
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