Italy's Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) confirmed that the new Codice della Strada does not halt autonomous driving, introducing specific rules for automated driving with an initial onboard controller requirement and progressive openness to remote control. The code immediately liberalizes partial automation. The clarification matters because Italy is defining a regulatory path for AV testing and commercialization amid parliamentary debate.
Tesla displayed a mass-production Cybercab robotaxi with no steering wheel or pedals at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, its first exhibition in Asia. Tesla's robotaxi fleet began operations in Austin on September 3, scaling past 300 vehicles within 30 days and accumulating roughly 5 million kilometers by October 18 with no safety monitors and zero airbag deployments. The expo debut signals Tesla's push toward China market entry.
The 02 series of amendments to UN Regulation 171, governing supervised driver-assistance systems like Tesla Assisted Driving, takes effect 24 December 2026 per UK Department for Transport calculations. The update adds provisions for system-initiated manoeuvres outside motorways and hands-off phases plus speed-limit assistance, areas where Dutch approval of Tesla's system required exemptions. No authority has confirmed whether Tesla's software meets the new text.
Chinese automaker XPENG received authorization to conduct Level 4 autonomous robotaxi demonstration operations across Guangzhou, moving its project from technical validation to real-world operation. The approval lets XPENG evaluate an actual robotaxi service rather than just vehicle capability, and the company frames it as a step toward future international expansion of its autonomous driving technology.
Tesla answered NHTSA's Special Order under oath regarding how the Cybercab can operate without a steering wheel, pedals or mirrors, then requested the entire file be kept confidential, leaving only one sentence and a firefighter guide in the public docket. Commercial paid Cybercab rides continue in Austin while the certification case for the control-less vehicle stays sealed.
Waymo's published Las Vegas service map now includes downtown, extending north of the original Strip corridor that ran to Sahara Avenue at the September launch. The Help Center does not state new square mileage or a date for full rider access. The expansion follows October additions of Harry Reid International Airport trips for eligible riders.
Ansan City in South Korea implemented an ordinance allowing autonomous vehicles to use designated public parking spaces free of charge within its pilot operation zone, effective September 30. The ordinance also enables financial support for AV transport operators and a city-run reservation and payment platform. The move supports Ansan's status as a Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport-designated autonomous driving pilot zone.
Kodiak AI signed its first binding commercial contract to deliver 75 autonomous trucks to California freight carrier DTL Transport starting in 2028. The deal precedes Kodiak's planned December launch of fully driverless highway operations hauling Ikea merchandise on Interstate 45 between Dallas and Houston. The agreement signals growing carrier commitment to driverless Class 8 trucking on public highways.
Singapore regulators are reviewing autonomous driving standards after an incident involving a Grab robotaxi. The review follows scrutiny of Grab's AV operations in the city-state. The case tests how quickly Singapore, one of Asia's most permissive AV testbeds, tightens oversight of commercial autonomous ride services.