9,000 Miles Of Proof: Electric Trucks Can Tow, But Battery Size Is Everything

cleantechnica.com Jun 19, 2026

9,000 Miles Of Proof: Electric Trucks Can Tow, But Battery Size Is Everything

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Jun 19, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

A journalist recently completed a 9,000-mile trip across 21 states, towing a travel trailer with an electric truck. The journey proved that electric trucks can tow heavy loads over long distances, with flawless mechanical capability. However, the trip also highlighted the importance of battery size, demonstrating that current industry trends towards smaller battery packs are insufficient for real-world towing needs. The journalist visited numerous charging stations and national parks, gathering data on the hardware, numbers, and infrastructure encountered along the way. The trip showcased the capabilities and limitations of electric trucks in towing applications.

💡 Why It Matters

· Electric trucks' ability to tow heavy loads relies heavily on battery size, making it a crucial factor in their design.
· Larger battery packs are necessary for electric trucks to effectively tow over long distances.

Capsules Transport

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Google Meet for Android Auto now rolling out widely

Google has confirmed the full rollout of Google Meet for Android Auto, a feature that allows users to make conference calls from their vehicles. The feature is enabled by default and works automatically when a phone is connected to a supported Android Auto head unit. The rollout is expected to be complete by June 2026, with users seeing the feature on their car's in-car entertainment OS. A notification will inform users that "Meet is available" and allow them to log in.

💡 Google's integration of Google Meet into Android Auto marks a significant shift in how people use video conferencing on-the-go. By streamlining the process and limiting distractions, Google is making it easier for professionals to stay connected while driving, potentially increasing productivity and reducing the need for lengthy breaks.

techcrunch.com · Jun 19

Rivian owners file lawsuit alleging false promises on self-driving features

Rivian owners have filed a class-action lawsuit against the electric vehicle maker, alleging that the company made false claims about the autonomous driving capabilities of its R1T truck and R1S SUV models. The lawsuit claims that Rivian misrepresented its hands-free driver-assistance system, known as Driver+, as standard in every vehicle it builds, when in fact the first-generation models do not offer hands-free driving. The plaintiffs are seeking damages for fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and unjust enrichment.

💡 This lawsuit highlights the risks of overpromising and underdelivering on advanced driver-assistance systems, a trend that has also affected Tesla. By making unsubstantiated claims about its vehicles' capabilities, Rivian may have induced consumers to purchase its products, only to later be disappointed by the actual features.

neowin.net · Jun 19

Waymo recalls self-driving software after cars enter closed freeway work zones

Waymo has recalled its fifth-generation Automated Driving Systems after some self-driving cars entered closed freeway construction zones. The recall was initiated due to the vehicles' inability to detect and avoid construction zones, with incidents occurring in Phoenix, Arizona, and the San Francisco Bay Area. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration listed the issue, stating that Waymo is developing a solution to update its ADS software. Freeway driving has been restricted until the issue is resolved, with Waymo's Safety Board reviewing the matter and deciding on the recall. The incidents add to Waymo's technical issues, potentially leading to increased scrutiny from lawmakers.

💡 Lawmakers may impose tighter regulations on autonomous vehicles as a result of Waymo's technical issues. Stricter oversight could slow the deployment of self-driving cars on public roads.

teslarati.com · Jun 19

Tesla teases greater Grok FSD integration and ‘Banish’ feature ‘in about 3…

Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed that the company plans to integrate Grok with Full Self-Driving, allowing drivers to control the car's navigation more explicitly. This feature is expected to be available in about three months, or around September. Musk's response was prompted by a Tesla owner's suggestion to enable conversing with Grok like an Uber driver, providing examples of commands such as turning right or dropping off at a specific location. The upcoming feature may also include "Banish," which would enable the car to self-park after dropping off occupants. This functionality aims to improve the overall experience of supervising Full Self-Driving.

💡 Enhanced Grok integration addresses a major painpoint for Tesla owners, who often struggle with navigation using Full Self-Driving. By allowing more explicit control, Tesla can reduce confusion and improve the user experience, particularly in complex scenarios like street parking.

english.aawsat.com · Jun 19

Sweden May Oppose Tesla’s Supervised Self-driving Tech in Europe over Speeding Concerns

A Swedish transport authority is recommending a vote against the Europe-wide rollout of Tesla's supervised self-driving software unless it disables its ability to exceed legal speed limits. The Swedish Transport Administration sent a letter to the EU's Technical Committee on Motor Vehicles, citing concerns that allowing automated systems to exceed speed limits could undermine the legal framework and safety benefits of vehicle automation. Tesla has already secured approval in some European countries for its Full Self-Driving feature, which allows vehicles to steer themselves under human supervision. The EU's Technical Committee on Motor Vehicles is due to meet on June 30 to discuss the matter. Tesla's user manual advises drivers not to rely solely on the system for speed limits. The committee's decision will impact Tesla's sales in the region, where it faces growing competition.

💡 Sweden's opposition could set a precedent for other EU countries to scrutinize Tesla's technology, potentially slowing its expansion in the region. By taking a firm stance on speed limits, Sweden is emphasizing the need for automated vehicles to prioritize road safety above convenience features.

cleantechnica.com · Jun 19

Solar With Firming Now Beating Gas In Asia, & EVs Could Save…

A new report from Ember highlights the potential for solar energy and electric vehicles to transform Asia's energy landscape. The report estimates that Asia could save $350 billion a year on oil imports by electrifying its fleets, with savings projected to reach $110 billion by 2035 and $350 billion by 2050. Solar with firming, which combines solar power with battery storage, can now undercut most new gas power capacity in Asia, with costs below $100/megawatt-hour in most of the region. This shift could enhance energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports.

💡 Electrifying transport and switching to renewable energy would reduce Asia's import dependence, keeping hundreds of billions of dollars within local economies. Asia's domestic manufacturing capacity and low electricity prices position it well to supply its own clean energy future.