In other news, Volkswagen's new affordable EV, the ID EVERY1, will feature Rivian's software and architecture, with production starting in 2027. Didi is seeking funds for its autonomous vehicle unit, and BYD raised $5.6 billion in a share sale. Notable deals include AiDEN Auto's $4.2 million seed funding and CaPow's $15 million Series A round. The article also highlights developments in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and ride-hailing, including Waymo's robotaxi service in Austin and Tesla's application for a transportation service permit in California.
Key takeaways:
- TechCrunch Mobility team is attending SXSW with panels on transportation topics, including interviews with industry leaders like Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe and discussions on the future of drone delivery.
- Volkswagen's new affordable EV, the ID EVERY1, will feature software and architecture from Rivian, marking a significant collaboration between the two companies.
- Didi is seeking additional funding for its autonomous vehicle technology unit, aiming for a valuation of $5 billion, while BYD raised $5.6 billion in a primary share sale.
- Waymo's robotaxi service is now available on the Uber app in Austin, and the company is logging over 200,000 paid robotaxi rides weekly, doubling its rides in less than a year.