TechCapsules

Maritime Organisations Call to Include Shipping in Electrification Action Plan

Maritime organisations, including Transport & Environment (T&E), have urged the EU Commission to integrate the shipping industry into its upcoming Electrification Action Plan. The plan, set to be published on July 15, aims to electrify Europe, reduce fossil fuel imports, and lower emissions. Shipping companies can now connect to local grids in ports, but significant barriers remain, hindering the industry's electrification.

Android Auto has suddenly lost its Facebook Messenger app

Facebook Messenger has suddenly disappeared from Android Auto, leaving users frustrated and without access to their messages while driving. The app's removal comes without warning and no official explanation from Meta. The change affects users with the latest version of Facebook Messenger, with the icon and app no longer appearing on car displays or in the launcher customization screen. Android Auto's notification UI still supports Messenger notifications, but without a direct filter.

💡 The removal of Facebook Messenger from Android Auto highlights the growing tension between tech giants and the need for seamless integration in connected ecosystems. As more users rely on messaging apps for daily communication, the sudden loss of a key feature underscores the importance of stable partnerships between companies.

Ford Pitches New LFP Battery, With Rivian Breathing Down Its Neck

Ford is hiring hundreds of workers to manufacture a new LFP battery in the US, with assistance from CATL. The company aims to reduce the up-front cost of EVs to mass-market level. Ford has welcomed over 500 employees to its BlueOval Battery Park in Michigan and plans to reach 800 by the end of the year. The new LFP batteries will power Ford's affordable midsize electric truck, with shipping expected to start this year. Rivian, a rival EV maker, has also been making moves to reduce EV costs, but has recently laid off several hundred workers. Ford's hiring spree and new battery production may give it an edge in the affordable EV market.

💡 Ford's focus on affordability could help it gain traction in the EV market, particularly against rival Tesla. The company's goal of beating the cost of owning a used Tesla Model Y over a five-year period is a significant target.

Tesla Cybercab has one important piece that AI4 cars might need for…

A recent image of a Tesla Cybercab reveals a compact triangular side repeater camera housing with an integrated washer mechanism, crucial for achieving reliable Full Self-Driving. Cameras are the sole sensory input for FSD, and the washer system ensures they remain clear in various weather conditions. The Cybercab's side repeater washer delivers targeted cleaning bursts, tackling a known pain point in current FSD deployments. This hardware may be necessary for AI4 cars to match the Cybercab's all-weather readiness and support autonomy. The washer mechanism highlights Tesla's focus on real-world robustness, potentially determining how quickly FSD scales.

💡 Robust washer systems are essential for production Robotaxi fleets aiming for high utilization and minimal downtime. The Cybercab's washer mechanism sets a new standard for environmental resilience, potentially influencing the development of future AI4 variants.

Tesla patent aims to improve common on-road complaint

Tesla has patented a sophisticated hybrid suspension design that combines active motor-driven control with strategic passive elements to deliver superior ride quality, energy efficiency, and resilience against road imperfections. The system features an active control element powered by an electric motor, a low-rate air spring, and a series of passive control elements that work together to filter vibrations and maintain optimal comfort and stability. This technology aims to mitigate common on-road complaints, particularly potholes, and could potentially set a new standard for automotive comfort.

Mobee expands fleet and simplifies pricing in Monaco

Mobee, an electric car-sharing scheme in Monaco, is expanding its fleet and simplifying its pricing structure. The service, operated by Smeg group, will add 20 Fiat Topolino vehicles to its lineup this summer, joining 20 Renault Twizy models already on the road. Mobee will offer two categories of vehicles: city cars and touring vehicles, with pricing organized around these categories. This change aims to make shared mobility simpler and more accessible to users.

💡 Simplified pricing could increase Mobee's appeal to budget-conscious users, potentially shifting the balance of the electric car-sharing market in Monaco. By offering premium vehicles at a single rate, Mobee may attract more customers who previously opted for cheaper options.