Software, AI, and automation are rapidly reshaping mobility across vehicles, infrastructure, and manufacturing. From robotics and autonomous driving to software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and connected electric vehicles (EVs), both global and Indian players are accelerating innovation cycles. Recent developments underscore the convergence of capital, partnerships, and platforms that are defining the next phase of automotive technology evolution.
Hyundai Motor Group is set to unveil its AI robotics strategy along with the next-generation Atlas robot at CES 2026. This initiative underscores automakers’ expanding role beyond traditional vehicle manufacturing into AI-driven automation ecosystems. As automotive companies explore new technological frontiers, their focus is shifting towards integrating AI into broader operational frameworks, which is expected to redefine industry standards.
At the upcoming ETAuto EV Conclave 2025, the discussion will revolve around the transition from electric to intelligent vehicles, emphasizing the critical role of software-defined vehicles. SDVs are becoming central to automotive competitiveness, shifting value away from hardware toward software and services. This shift not only enhances vehicle capabilities but also improves customer experiences.
In a notable advancement for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), Genesys has rolled out high-definition (HD) road maps aimed at improving highway safety. These HD maps serve as a foundational layer for ADAS and autonomous driving, enhancing localization and lane-level accuracy while contributing to overall safety outcomes on the roads. This technological innovation is essential as the industry moves towards greater automation.
Waymo is reportedly in talks to raise billions of dollars at a valuation exceeding $100 billion. These funding discussions highlight renewed investor confidence in autonomous mobility as commercial deployments expand. The prospect of significant capital inflow reflects a growing belief in the viability of self-driving technologies and their potential to disrupt traditional transportation models.
In India, HIVE has partnered with KPIT Technologies to establish a light electric vehicle (LEV) engineering center in Delhi-NCR. This collaboration aims to bolster India’s EV engineering capabilities and support faster innovation, particularly for two- and three-wheelers. Such initiatives are crucial for enhancing the domestic EV ecosystem, which is vital for meeting increasing demand and sustainability goals.
Furthermore, Kinetic Watts & Volts has teamed up with Jio Things to develop connected EV technologies. This partnership highlights the significance of connected technologies as key differentiators in EV adoption, enhancing usability, diagnostics, and customer engagement. Such advancements are essential not only for improving vehicle performance but also for fostering consumer trust and interest in EVs.
In a significant international collaboration, Uber and Lyft are set to test Baidu’s robotaxis in the UK. These pilots reflect a growing global collaboration in autonomous mobility and intensifying competition in robotaxi services. As companies explore cross-border partnerships, the dynamics of robotaxi deployment are expected to evolve, further driving the adoption of automated transport solutions.
In summary, software-defined vehicles and AI are becoming core elements of future automotive competitiveness, while HD mapping and ADAS are essential enablers for safer, automated mobility. The rise of autonomous driving is attracting fresh capital and forging global partnerships, contributing to India’s strengthening EV ecosystem through engineering centers and connected technologies. As automakers expand their focus into robotics, AI, and platform-led mobility solutions, the automotive industry stands on the cusp of a transformative era.
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