Biden Administration Rejects Tesla's $100 Million Funding Request for Big Rig Charging Infrastructure - Again!

EV Startup Shines with $100M Funding Boost Amid Tesla’s Mixed Federal Funding Saga

Welcome to your go-to source for the latest in transportation technology and insights. In this edition of TechCrunch Mobility, we dive into exciting developments from CES 2025 and explore significant trends reshaping the future of transportation. Sign up for free updates here!

Highlights from CES 2025

This year’s CES was buzzing with innovation, particularly in autonomous vehicle technology. While self-driving cars were a focal point, other themes captured attention as well. Explore our detailed coverage here.

Key Transportation Tech News

Farewell to Hindenburg Research

In unexpected news, Hindenburg Research announced its closure this week. Known for revealing fraud in companies like Nikola Motors and Lordstown Motors, founder Nate Anderson shared the news on Wednesday. This marks the end of an era for the firm that significantly impacted both the transportation and climate tech sectors.

Recent Funding and Acquisitions

Here’s a roundup of notable deals in the transportation sector:

  • Caramel, a startup facilitating car transactions, has been acquired by eBay. Terms remain undisclosed.
  • Harbinger, an electric vehicle startup, secured $100 million in Series B funding, co-led by Capricorn Investment Group and Leitmotif.
  • Sarla Aviation raised $10 million in funding led by Accel, with contributions from notable angel investors.

Additionally, Tesla experienced a mixed bag with federal funding. While it was denied $97 million for a charging corridor, it secured $100 million for electric truck charging stations in Illinois.

Startup Developments

Shippeo, a startup specializing in real-time tracking software, raised $30 million from Toyota’s Woven Capital.

Noteworthy Updates in Autonomous and Electric Vehicles

Legal Challenges and Regulations

Aurora Innovation is challenging federal safety regulators in a case concerning the placement of warning triangles around stopped semi-trucks, a move that could influence regulations for self-driving trucks.

READ ALSO  Rivian Launches New Micromobility Venture 'Also' with $105M Funding from Eclipse

The U.S. Department of Commerce has implemented a rule banning the sale or import of connected vehicles from China and Russia due to national security concerns, affecting companies like WeRide and Pony AI.

Electric Vehicle Innovations

At CES 2025, Arc Boats showcased its new electric boat, while Tesla introduced a refreshed Model Y tailored for the Asian market.

With ongoing discussions about road usage fees for electric vehicle owners, challenges remain in implementing such measures, as reported by TechCrunch’s Rebecca Bellan.

This Week’s Wheels

Before the holidays, I had the opportunity to drive the production prototype of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S Plus. This all-electric minibus is priced at $69,595 and aims to blend nostalgia with modern innovation.

Here’s what stood out during my test drive:

  • Design: Eye-catching and reminiscent of its iconic predecessor.
  • Space: Exceptionally roomy interior, perfect for families or commercial use.
  • Performance: Maneuverable despite its length of 195.4 inches.

While it meets many expectations, questions linger about its long-distance travel capabilities given its 234-mile range on a 91 kWh battery.

For more insights on transportation products we test, including electric and hybrid vehicles, stay tuned for our next edition!

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