LA Auto Show 2023: EV Innovations, Amazon’s Car Sales, and Cruise’s Turmoil

Event Overview: Shifting Gears in Automotive Trends

The 2023 LA Auto Show may not have matched its pre-pandemic prominence, but it still delivered noteworthy announcements and emerging transportation trends. TechCrunch’s on-the-ground coverage captured the most significant developments, from groundbreaking EV debuts to surprising retail partnerships.

Major Announcements

Amazon Enters Online Car Sales

• Partnership: Amazon will begin selling vehicles online, starting with Hyundai
• Strategic Shift: Marks a major expansion beyond traditional e-commerce into automotive retail

Standout Vehicle Reveals

• Lucid Gravity SUV: The highly anticipated electric SUV made its debut
• EV Focus: Multiple automakers showcased next-generation electric vehicles

Micromobility Spotlight: Upway’s $30M Funding

Key Details:

• Business Model: French startup refurbishes and resells premium e-bikes
• Expansion: Recently entered the U.S. market after European success
• Market Potential: Growing demand for certified pre-owned e-bikes addresses safety and affordability concerns

Transportation Industry Deals

Notable Investments:

• Divergent Technologies: $230M Series D for digital manufacturing systems
• Gravity: $13M seed round for EV infrastructure development
• GM Acquisition: Purchased key Tesla supplier Tooling & Equipment International
• InDrive: Launched $100M venture arm for emerging market startups

Autonomous Vehicle Sector Updates

Cruise Leadership Crisis

• Executive Shakeup: GM installed new leadership amid safety concerns
• Employee Morale: Suspension of stock program created internal turmoil
• CEO Resignation: Kyle Vogt stepped down following public apology to staff

Regulatory Landscape

• Texas Potential: Could become next major AV testing ground with minimal regulation
• Safety Concerns: Increasing robotaxi incidents may prompt policy changes

EV Market Developments

Industry Moves:

• Arrival: Secured $50M bridge loan to facilitate potential sale
• Cadillac: Unveiled Optiq compact EV crossover
• Exxon: Announced major lithium extraction project in Arkansas
• Redwood Materials: Partnered with Toyota for battery component supply

Charging Infrastructure

• Mercedes-Buc-ee’s: Plan for 30 fast-charging hubs at popular travel centers
• Technology: Advances in charging speed and accessibility continue

Future of Flight Innovations

eVTOL Progress:

• Archer Aviation: $500M MOU for 100 Midnight eVTOLs in UAE
• Public Demonstrations: Joby and Volocopter showcased aircraft in NYC
• Regulatory Milestone: Zipline received FAA approval for beyond visual line of sight operations

In-Car Technology Updates

Safety & Software:

• Federal Proposal: NTSB recommends speed reduction tech in all new vehicles
• Rivian Glitch: Software update temporarily affected 3% of infotainment systems

Ride-Hailing Sector

Policy Changes:

• Uber Reforms: Implementing new protections against unfair driver deactivations

For ongoing coverage of transportation innovation, subscribe to TechCrunch’s mobility newsletter.

📚 Featured Products & Recommendations

Discover our carefully selected products that complement this article’s topics:

🛍️ Featured Product 1: Box One ³⁄₃₂″ CNC AL 7075 Cog Black – 18t

Image: Premium product showcase

Premium quality box one ³⁄₃₂″ cnc al 7075 cog black – 18t designed for professional use with excellent performance and reliability.

Key Features:

• Premium materials and construction
• User-friendly design and operation
• Reliable performance in various conditions
• Comprehensive quality assurance

🔗 View Product Details & Purchase

💡 Need Help Choosing? Contact our expert team for personalized product recommendations!