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This Week in AV News

By Eric Tanenblatt, Peter Stockburger, and Walker Boothe
August 13, 2024
  • Autonomous Vehicles
  • Driverless Commute
  • General
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US Regulatory Landscape: Chinese Software in Autonomous Vehicles

The US government is expected to propose new regulations that could have a significant impact on the use of Chinese software in autonomous vehicles. This move comes as part of broader efforts to safeguard national security and reduce reliance on foreign technology in critical sectors. The proposed rule would likely bar the use of Chinese-made software in autonomous vehicles, citing concerns over potential cybersecurity risks and the protection of sensitive data.

The implications of this decision could be far-reaching for the autonomous vehicle industry, as it may force companies to seek alternative software providers or develop proprietary solutions. This could also lead to increased tensions between the US and China, particularly in the technology and automotive sectors, where both nations are vying for global leadership.

Read more: Reuters


Mercedes-Benz to Begin Level 4 Autonomous Driving Tests in China

Mercedes-Benz has received approval to begin testing its Level 4 autonomous driving technology in China. This marks a significant milestone for the German automaker, as it continues to expand its autonomous vehicle capabilities in one of the world’s most competitive markets. Level 4 autonomy refers to a system where the vehicle can operate without human intervention in certain conditions, though a human driver can still take control if needed.

China has been a critical market for autonomous vehicle development, with numerous local and international companies conducting tests and launching pilot programs. Mercedes-Benz’s entry into this space highlights the growing competition, and the importance of regulatory approvals in advancing autonomous technology.

Read more: Electrek


WeRide Prepares for US IPO Amidst Autonomous Vehicle Boom

China’s autonomous vehicle startup, WeRide, is gearing up for a US Initial Public Offering (IPO), signaling its ambitions to expand and compete on the global stage. WeRide, which has made significant strides in autonomous driving technology, is one of the leading players in China’s rapidly growing autonomous vehicle market.

The decision to list in the US could provide WeRide with the capital needed to accelerate its development and commercialization efforts. It also underscores the growing importance of the US market for Chinese tech companies, even amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. WeRide’s IPO could be a bellwether for other Chinese autonomous vehicle companies looking to tap into global capital markets.

Read more: TechCrunch


Waymo Expands Autonomous Ride-Hailing Service in California

Waymo, a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, is expanding its ride-hailing service to new areas in Los Angeles and San Francisco. This expansion is part of Waymo’s broader strategy to increase its footprint in key US markets, where it has been gradually rolling out its autonomous ride-hailing services.

Waymo’s expansion into new areas comes as the company continues to refine its technology and address regulatory challenges. The move is expected to increase competition in the autonomous ride-hailing space, particularly as other players, like Cruise and Zoox, also seek to establish themselves in these lucrative markets.

Read more: Reuters

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Eric Tanenblatt

About Eric Tanenblatt

Eric Tanenblatt is the Global Chair of Public Policy and Regulation of Dentons, the world's largest law firm. He also leads the firm's US Public Policy Practice, leveraging his three decades of experience at the very highest levels of the federal and state governments.

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Peter Stockburger

About Peter Stockburger

Peter Stockburger is the office managing partner for the Firm’s San Diego office, a member of the Firm’s Venture Technology and Emerging Growth Companies group, and co-lead of the Firm’s Autonomous Vehicle practice. With a focus on data privacy and security, Peter works with clients of all sizes and maturity to build and shore up their privacy and security programs, deploy technology, enhance compliance and stakeholder confidence, take new products to market, work through data governance and retention challenges, navigate workplace disputes, and harness emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

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Walker Boothe

About Walker Boothe

Walker Boothe is an associate managing director in Dentons’ Public Policy and Regulation practice.

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