Latest news with #AutoDrive
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Stellantis pivots to Google's Android as in-car partnership with Amazon ends
Three years ago, Stellantis announced it was pairing up with Amazon to create in-car software that would bring a slew of connected products and services to vehicles by 2024 as part of the automaker's broader plan to generate $22.5 billion annually from software. That never happened. And now, the partnership is "winding down," Reuters reported. The article also reported that Amazon staff working on the project had been reassigned or left the company, according to unnamed sources. Stellantis confirmed the Reuters report and told TechCrunch it would be pivoting to an Android-based system. "Amazon remains a valuable partner for Stellantis, and the companies continue to work together on a range of initiatives," the automaker said in a statement. For instance, Stellantis will continue to use Amazon Web Services as its preferred cloud provider for vehicle platforms. Stellantis laid out an ambitious plan in December 2021 to have 34 million connected cars on the road by 2030. The pitch was that Stellantis would be setting itself up for a new stream of revenue beyond building and selling vehicles. Stellantis struck partnerships with BMW, Foxconn, Waymo, and Amazon to reach that target. The plan to use in-car software to sell passengers and drivers products and subscriptions involved three components. It started with an underlying electrical and software architecture system that Stellantis dubbed STLA Brain. On top of the Brain, Stellantis would add a "STLA SmartCockpit," a platform to deliver applications to the driver, such as navigation, voice assistance, an e-commerce marketplace, and payment services, as well as applications that would deliver personalized in-vehicle experiences for the driver and passengers. A third piece involved an automated driving platform called "AutoDrive," developed with BMW. Amazon was tapped to help Stellantis with the STLA SmartCockpit, specifically with technology that would adapt to customers' behaviors and interests and then deliver personalized services. Stellantis told TechCrunch it is sticking with its smart cockpit platform. Now, it seems Google's Android-based system, which is used by numerous automakers, is headed to this future software platform. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Stellantis Has Developed a Level 3 Self-Driving Function
Stellantis has shown off a new hands-free driving system that allows for up to —to a point. The system allows for the driver to take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road, but only up to 37 mph. The company is working on developing the system up to 59 mph, but there's no timeline for when either system will be added to a car you can buy. Stellantis unveiled a new hands-free driving system that it says would allow users to watch movies, read emails, or confront the cold grip of reality while staring into the dark abyss that is the universe... Assuming, of course, that you're driving under 37 miles per hour. You'll also need to make sure you don't get too lost in your reality check because even vehicles with SAE Level 3 autonomous-driving ratings might ask you to take control back. Stellantis fittingly calls the new system STLA AutoDrive 1.0. With the speed capped at 37 mph, the system is designed for commuters in dense urban areas that often experience bumper-to-bumper traffic. It will apparently work in low-light and night conditions and even in poor weather. When traffic and environmental conditions allow it, a message will prompt drivers that AutoDrive is available. They can then activate the system with a physical button, prompting the AutoDrive to take control of steering, following distance to the car ahead, and adjusting speed and braking. Stellantis said it's also working to develop the system further and hopes to increase the top speed to 59 mph, while also adding off-road capabilities down the line. In a written statement to Car and Driver, a Stellantis spokesperson confirmed that the system isn't available yet. "Our Level 3 technology is fully developed and ready for deployment, but the current market for autonomous driving at this level remains very limited. We have made the strategic decision not to launch it at this time. Once the market matures and conditions become more favorable, we will evaluate the path to commercialization," the spokesperson said. You Might Also Like Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars through the Decades How to Buy or Lease a New Car Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
AutoDrive Previews an Eyes-Off Utopia as Seen by Stellantis
Stellantis previews SAE Level 3 system dubbed STLA AutoDrive, which will permit eyes-off, hands-off automated driving under some circumstances, and at speeds of up to 37 mph. The system, which the automaker says is ready for deployment, is only permitted in certain US states now and is not guaranteed to appear soon in Jeep, Dodge, Ram, or other Stellantis models. STLA AutoDrive is set to join a number of similar systems from Mercedes-Benz, Honda, BMW, and a few others—just one of which is offered stateside. Stellantis has revealed its SAE Level 3 driver-assistance system, dubbed STLA AutoDrive, joining a small club of automakers and autonomous tech developers with an eyes-off, hands-off system. And the automaker says it is ready for deployment in its vehicles. SAE Level 3 systems differ from more limited SAE Level 2 systems in that they do not require drivers to keep their eyes on the road, allowing them to watch movies on a tablet, text, or read behind the wheel—everything short of taking a nap. This distinguishes them from Tesla's Autopilot and FSD, which are Level 2 systems and require driver attention to the road at all times. "Ideal for commuters in dense urban areas, STLA AutoDrive will allow drivers to temporarily engage in non-driving tasks such as watching a movie, catching up on emails, reading a book, or simply looking out the window, reclaiming valuable time," the automaker says. Only a handful of automakers have fielded such systems, including Honda, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz—the latter being the only one to offer it in the US (albeit in just two states for now that permit them—California and parts of Nevada). State-by-state legislation currently does not permit an automaker to offer a Level 3 system in all 50 states. As with other SAE Level 3 systems, there are a few limitations at the moment: AutoDrive will work at speeds of up to 37 mph, but it can do so even at night and even in light rain. This makes it more of a traffic-jam assistance feature in practice, unless your entire commute happens in 25- or 35-mph zones. The system will also permit Level 3 operation in off-road settings in some models, Stellantis notes, hinting at Jeep's future receipt of AutoDrive, but hasn't committed to anything explicitly. "Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority," said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. "By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable." The automaker says the system decides when and where it is safe and suitable for activation, and notifies the driver. Once the driver presses a physical button, STLA AutoDrive takes over, controlling speed, steering functions, and braking. The technology suite includes an automated sensor-cleaning system, which should keep dirt and water off important surfaces on the vehicle's exterior. The system will still operate in SAE Level 2 mode at higher speeds for now, such as on the freeway, requiring driver attention to the road and hands on the wheel. But over time, Stellantis says the vehicle speeds appropriate for SAE Level 3 will potentially be revised upward, reaching 59 mph by its estimates as a next step in its development. "The system is also cloud-connected, enabling continuous enhancements through over-the-air updates and real-time data integration for optimized performance," the automaker said. This will permit its use on the freeway, at least in the jurisdictions that allow Level 3 systems. Crucially, Stellantis does not say whether the system will recognize and react to traffic lights and stop signs, and the video demo only contemplates some kind of utopia without the usual buffet of suburban horrors and annoyances, or even intersections or roundabouts. So despite saying that AutoDrive is "ideal for commuters in dense urban areas," the automaker's demo video does not really show any of those settings, or offer details about its operation in complex environments. And there are still a few caveats and unknowns when it comes to the actual commercial rollout of this technology. For starters, Stellantis hasn't mentioned whether any of its US models will receive the SAE Level 3 systems or in what timeframe, only hinting at its future availability in the new Wagoneer S EV. Additionally, Stellantis hasn't mentioned just where it intends to offer this system, given the fragmented regulatory landscape of Level 3, raising the possibility that it could debut in Europe first and then perhaps make its way to the US. Stellantis' comments regarding the system were not market-specific. The automaker hasn't explicitly committed to offering this system in the US, only mentioning "a smooth rollout as commercial strategies align with market demand." The target price of such a system, whether as a one-time purchase or a subscription, remains unmentioned as well, though this is certainly an issue to be determined once everything else is in place, including the regulatory landscape. Ultimately, the floodgates of Level 3 will only open in the US when a single federal standard is implemented, so for now Stellantis joins a group of automakers with SAE Level 3 but without a strong business case for the US market. Should Level 3 systems with eyes-off, hands-off flexibility be permitted in all US states, or should this tech be treated with greater caution? Please comment below.
USA Today
20-02-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
New Stellantis self-driving system would let you watch movies. What you need to know.
AI-assisted summary Stellantis says its AutoDrive system would let users do non-driving tasks behind the wheel. The system is designed for speeds up to 37 mph. Safety advocates are advising drivers who might choose to use the system to be aware of potential liability issues. Stellantis developed a hands-free, eyes-off driving system for speeds up to 37 mph, but will not release it to the market at this time. The system, called STLA AutoDrive 1.0, is designed for stop-and-go traffic and would allow drivers to watch movies or engage in other non-driving activities. Safety advocates warn that drivers may become too reliant on these systems and be unprepared to take control in an emergency. Concerns remain about the liability of drivers and automakers in the event of a crash while using these systems. Stellantis says its new hands-free and eyes-off the road driving system would let users temporarily watch movies and engage in other non-driving tasks at lower speeds, a possibility that prompted warnings from some safety advocates. The company, however, said it has decided not to make the system available right now. The system, designed for use at speeds up to 37 mph, would be geared toward conditions such as stop-and-go traffic during commutes, according to a company news release Thursday morning, that said it could be adapted for global markets across Stellantis-branded vehicles Although it wasn't initially clear how soon the company, owner of the Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat brands, might make the system available, a spokesperson indicated Thursday that STLA AutoDrive 1.0 would not be launched at this time. It's the company's first 'in-house-developed automated driving system.' "Our Level 3 technology is fully developed and ready for deployment, but the current market for autonomous driving at this level remains very limited. We have made the strategic decision not to launch it at this time. Once the market matures and conditions become more favorable, we will evaluate the path to commercialization," according to a company statement provided by spokesman Frank Matyok. Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. Level 3 refers to a 0 to 5 classification system for driving automation. The company's initial news release frames the system as an answer to time-wasting commutes: 'Ideal for commuters in dense urban areas, STLA AutoDrive will allow drivers to temporarily engage in non-driving tasks such as watching a movie, catching up on emails, reading a book or simply looking out the window, reclaiming valuable time.' The system, according to the release, notifies drivers when the time is right. 'When traffic and system conditions are right on a highway in a traffic jam and with good visibility, simply press a button and let STLA AutoDrive take charge,' according to the narrator in a video posted on the company's corporate website. The system is supposed to maintain safe distances, adjust its speed and 'manage steering and braking seamlessly based on traffic flow,' the release said, noting that the 'system feels smooth, predictable and human-like in real-world conditions.' The announcement also promises automated sensor cleaning and notes that the system "continuously monitors its surroundings through an advanced suite of sensors to ensure high-precision awareness and reliable operation, even at night or in challenging weather conditions such as light rain or road spray." Future over-the-air updates could potentially offer 'hands-free and eyes-off' operation at speeds of up to 59 mph as well as off-road automation. It's designed currently to provide lower levels of driver assistance functions, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering and hands-off the steering wheel options, at higher speeds. 'Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,' Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering and technology officer, said in the release. 'By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.' More:Volvo plans for 2025 with its new Tesla Model S rival If the system is ultimately deployed on Stellantis vehicles, it would appear to be a leap above what most other automakers currently offer. Asked if he knew of any other systems currently promoting "eyes-off" technology, Sam Abuelsamid, vice president of market research at Telemetry Insights, pointed to only one in this country: "Currently in the U.S. market, the only option is the Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot system on the S-class and EQS. In Europe, BMW offers a similar system on the 7 series, and back in 2021, Honda built a limited run of the Legend sedan (formerly sold here as Acura RLX) with an L3 eyes-off system." Mercedes-Benz notes on a company website that "Drive Pilot is certified to perform on major freeways in California and parts of Nevada." Warnings about relying on self-driving systems The abilities of advanced driver assistance and so-called self-driving systems have been highly promoted in recent years, but they haven't come without issues. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration upgraded an investigation into Ford Motor Co.'s BlueCruise system earlier this year connected to "two fatal crashes involving all-electric Mustang Mach-E vehicles when the technology was in use," according to earlier Free Press reporting. Tesla's Autopilot and General Motors' former Cruise self-driving subsidiary have also dealt with highly publicized crashes. Abuelsamid advised drivers who might choose to use AutoDrive to beware. "Consumers should not even consider using such a system unless the automaker accepts liability for when things go wrong (because they will). Mercedes accepts liability if a crash happens while using Drive Pilot, and I believe BMW does as well. Tesla does not accept liability when using FSD (Full Self-Driving), putting it all on the driver," Abuelsamid said. "I would not even consider using an eyes-off system unless the manufacturer is responsible when it goes wrong." Michael Brooks, executive director of the advocacy group Center for Auto Safety, said he envisions the same safety issues with AutoDrive that have so far plagued supervised vehicle autonomy. "When a crash is imminent or the computer inevitably experiences a failure, drivers who have bought into the 'eyes-free, hands-free' marketing and used these features to the point of reliance will not be sufficiently engaged in vehicle operation to avoid crashes," Brooks said. "Marketing automated systems that rely on human supervision as 'hands-free' and 'eyes-off' is problematic and gives buyers more confidence in the technology than they should have, contributing to this complacency. Driver-monitoring systems designed to prevent this disengagement are all over the map in terms of current effectiveness." He also echoed Abuelsamid's concerns about liability, noting that the system's features are for convenience rather than to guarantee a safer trip. "That convenience factor evaporates rather quickly when you realize that a driver's legal responsibilities don't go away at the click of a button, and that you are ceding control of your future personal civil and criminal liability to a computer whenever these features are operational," he said. The Free Press had asked spokespeople for Stellantis if the company would accept liability in the event of a crash when AutoDrive is in use. The statement provided by Matyok referenced the company's approach on liability and other issues: "As with any deployment, regulatory frameworks and legal considerations play a key role, including liability. Our system is designed to operate within clearly defined conditions, where the vehicle takes control, and we will align with the applicable laws in each market when the technology is introduced." A message seeking comment was also sent to spokespeople for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Polaris Slingshot Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary with Debut of 2025 Lineup, Delivering Fresh New Style
Fully Redesigned Front End Adds Stand-Out Style Across 2025 Lineup; New Eight-Inch Speakers with Light Ring Enhances Audio and Adds Custom-Inspired Style MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Turning ordinary drives into extraordinary moments, the three-wheel Polaris Slingshot 2025 lineup combines one-of-a-kind, head-turning style with open-air, adventurous driving experiences unlike anything else on the road. New for 2025, Slingshot introduces a fully redesigned front end, all-new eight-inch speakers for enhanced audio, improved drivability, and more. "Ten years ago, we introduced a vehicle unlike anything else on the road. With three wheels and an open-air cockpit, the Slingshot has withstood the test of time and continues to stand out from the crowd with its one-of-a-kind style," said Josh Hermes, Polaris Slingshot Vice President. "Since then, year-after-year, we have listened to our owners to continue to improve upon its style and design to deliver an elevated experience. And, in 2025, we're bringing a fresh new look to the front end, upgraded features and even more options for personalization." Inspired by owner feedback, the 2025 Slingshot lineup features four models with loads of style and countless personalization opportunities – allowing drivers to make their mark each time they jump into the cockpit. Redesigned Front EndFor 2025, Slingshot has a completely redesigned front end, bringing a new look to the lineup. As drivers move up the lineup, they get enhanced front-end components and styling. For the S model, the new front end has a clean style with newly designed fascia components and a textured finish to enhance its look. The SL model adds graphics to the textured front fascia for a sportier feel, while still maintaining a clean look. Textured closeouts, lower accent lights and painted wing-like design elements are added to enhance the front end on the SLR model, while the front end on the top-of-the-line R model is fully painted and adds a lower splitter – complementing the edgy style of the Vented Sport Hood for a totally new, unique look. Improved DrivabilityUnder-the-hood upgrades give the 2025 lineup a sportier and more refined driving experience. A modest bump in horsepower and a broader torque curve deliver more acceleration behind the wheel, while all-new tuning refines the AutoDrive transmission – providing a more intuitive and smoother driving experience. Technical updates include updated suspension tuning for improved handling and greater confidence. In addition, the redesigned front end adds an inch of ground clearance to enhance driveability on the S, SL and SLR models. Updated AudioNew for 2025, Polaris Slingshot introduces larger, eight-inch speakers for the left and right interior side panels delivering crisp sound quality to counteract road and vehicle noise with increased volume and more bass. The new Stage 2 Max Audio Package by Rockford Fosgate® is standard on 2025 SLR and R models and available as an accessory upgrade for Slingshots model year 2021 and newer. Driver & Passenger EnhancementsDriver and passenger enhancements, such as a new key fob, gas cap tether, and improvements to security are made to upgrade the vehicle experience at every touchpoint. Each model in the 2025 lineup has refined fit and finish and offers a range of "mild-to-wild" paint options to give customers color choices that reflect their personal style. AccessoriesPersonalization is half the fun of owning a Slingshot and key to the Slingshot ownership experience. To support a wide range of driver needs and style preferences, Polaris Slingshot offers a number of factory-engineered accessories – allowing owners to seamlessly upgrade their audio experience, customize their style, or enhance their comfort. Audio: To achieve the ultimate level of audio and lighting, owners can enhance their Stage 2 Max Audio Package by Rockford Fosgate® with the Upgrade Kit to Light-Ready Speakers and Premium Interior Light Kit by XKGlow®. If upgrading a 2025 SLR or R model, where eight-inch speakers are already featured as standard equipment, the Upgrade Kit to Light-Ready Speakers and Premium Interior Light Kit by XKGlow® will allow driver and passenger to enjoy fully customizable lighting throughout the interior – across speaker grilles and footwells, under the seats, in the left-hand and right-hand side storage compartments and along the center console. With the easy-to-use "Slingshot LED" mobile app, available on the App Store® and Google Play® at no additional charge, Slingshot owners can select colors for two distinct light zones from a full spectrum of choices, apply preset themed patterns and strobe effects, synchronize to music, or design and save their favorite settings. With powerful 8" speakers from Rockford Fosgate® and vibrant lighting from XKGlow®, drivers will turn heads in their unique Slingshot. Style: Slingshot owners can provide a finishing touch to their Vented Sport Hood with the premium styling of the Vented Sport Hood Grille. They can also add color-matched and customizable styling to the upper front end with the Vented Sport Hood Upper Accent Panel (standard on R Models) or add the Front LED Accent Panel to the standard bodywork and give the Slingshot an even bolder look while illuminating the road ahead (standard on SLR and R models). They can upgrade their Slingshot's front end with the new Painted Front and Outer Fascia Kits for a custom, eye-catching look, or add an aggressive look with the easy-to-install, textured Lower Front Fascia Accent Kit. With these accessory accents, they will enjoy premium, factory-quality paint that perfectly matches or contrasts their Slingshot's colors and graphics. Comfort: For added comfort and sun protection, drivers can choose to add an Excursion Top to their ride and further customize their Slingshot by selecting one of three canvas color options. The Excursion Top Canvas is available with black, gray, or red Slingshot branding to match or contrast with the Slingshot's overall design. Drivers can also choose a Slingshade to stay protected from the elements without sacrificing style. The Slingshade features vertical opening T-Top panels with friction hinge technology and superior fit and finish. Designed to seamlessly integrate, it boasts sleek lines and automotive-grade finishes, perfectly color-matched to your Slingshot or customizable with more than 30 colors to pick from. 2025 Lineup Slingshot S: Starting at $24,999 for Manual and $26,849 for AutoDrive, S is available in Slingshot Red and Jet Black. For 2025, S is now standard with Technology Package 1, which includes Rockford Fosgate® audio with 2.7" display, security package with a passive security system and rear storage locks, rear center LED brake light, and a standard height clear windscreen for improved audio experience and wind protection. Slingshot SL: Starting at $28,299 for Manual and $30,149 for AutoDrive, SL is available in Jet Black and Liquid Lime. The SL includes additional features such as a 7-inch display powered by RIDE COMMAND, a 200w Rockford Fosgate sound system, and premium paint finishes and badging along with exterior illumination. Slingshot SLR: Starting at $31,399 for Manual and $33,249 for AutoDrive, SLR is available in Graphite Gloss and Royal Red. The SLR delivers upgraded performance with a 204 horsepower engine in addition to two-tone paint, full-body graphics, extra exterior lighting, a bigger 305mm rear wheel and sport interior. Slingshot R: Starting at $34,999 for Manual and $37,149 for AutoDrive, R is available in Royal Red Crystal and Nightfall. At the top of the lineup, the R model features progressive new machined wheels, a fully-painted front fascia and an eye-catching Vented Sport Hood along with premium multi-tone paint from tip to tail, integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay® and Brembo® brakes. RIDE COMMAND+ is available on Slingshot R for a 1 year free subscription. This platform provides added confidence and peace of mind with connected features like GPS turn-by-turn navigation, Vehicle Health, Vehicle Locator, Apple CarPlay® and more. The 2025 Slingshot lineup will begin shipping to dealers by March 2025. Learn more about the 2025 lineup at or follow Slingshot on social media: @Slingshot on X and @PolarisSlingshot on Instagram. For information on Slingshot rental locations, visit About Polaris SlingshotPolaris Slingshot, a brand of Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII), continues to define the category through style, ride experience and community with our three-wheeled autocycle. With AutoDrive and manual transmission options, an open cockpit, side-by-side seating, 5" ride height and a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Pro Star engine, Slingshot comes in a variety of models that are sure to make a statement. Step into a Slingshot for an adventurous and unrivaled ride experience. Learn more, visit † Slingshot is a three-wheeled motorcycle. It is not an automobile. It does not have airbags and it does not meet automotive safety standards. Three wheel vehicles may handle differently than other vehicles, especially in wet conditions. Always wear a DOT-approved full-face helmet and fasten seatbelts. The Driver may need a valid motorcycle endorsement. Drive within the limits of the law and your own abilities. Read, understand, and follow your owner's manual. Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Unless otherwise noted, trademarks are the property of Polaris Industries Inc. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth Sig, Inc. Rockford Fosgate® is a registered trademark of Rockford Corporation XKGlow® is a registered trademark of danial e. julian DBA XKGLOW View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Polaris Inc.
