Latest Updates in Autonomous and Self-Driving Vehicles: Boston Dynamics, Toyota, Tesla, WeRide, HL Robotics, TIER IV, Mapless AI, and Waymo Are at the Forefront of Innovation
In a significant move for the future of robotics, Boston Dynamics and Toyota Research Institute (TRI) have joined forces to accelerate the development of general-purpose humanoid robots. This partnership, initiated in October 2024, has already yielded impressive results, with a major milestone achieved in August 2025.
The collaboration has successfully demonstrated a Large Behavior Model (LBM) powering the Atlas humanoid robot. This LBM enables Atlas to autonomously perform whole-body manipulation and locomotion tasks, combining complex object handling and movement without the need for hand-coded programming. The robot can adapt and self-adjust to unexpected physical challenges during operation, marking a significant advancement in general-purpose humanoid robotics.
Scott Kuindersma and Russ Tedrake will co-lead the Boston-based research partnership. The LBM allows the Atlas robot to execute continuous sequences such as packing, sorting, and organizing, while using coordinated whole-body movements like walking, crouching, and lifting. Unlike prior humanoid systems, where control of walking and manipulation was separated, this system uses a single LBM controlling both arms and legs with near-equal authority, demonstrating unprecedented integration and flexibility.
This breakthrough signals the partnership's success in leveraging AI to rapidly add new robot capabilities and represents a key step toward practical general-purpose humanoid robots for diverse tasks. The partners aim to deliver innovative solutions for mass production vehicle models by 2030.
Meanwhile, in the world of autonomous vehicles, WeRide has unveiled its latest generation of Robotaxi, GXR. Known for its soft-edged design for baby-level safety care, emergency exit signage, and a safety hammer for emergency needs, GXR is equipped with a comprehensive redundancy system for passenger safety. The vehicle offers an impressive vehicle length, interior cabin height, and wheelbase, eliminating the front passenger seat for increased space efficiency. Passengers can load luggage and board the vehicle with a single door opening. GXR introduces the world's first hidden B-pillar design, allowing the front door and sliding side door to open simultaneously.
The partnership between WeRide and other entities, such as Mapless AI and Aero Corporation, aims to pilot tele-operations with remote human operators on Aero's rental fleet, initially focusing on its Electric Vehicles (EVs). TIER IV, a pioneer in Autoware, an open-source software for autonomous driving, has partnered with Hitachi Astemo to advance autonomous driving systems and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
As the robotics and autonomous vehicle industries continue to evolve, safety remains a top priority. The NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified several reports of Tesla vehicles experiencing crashes after entering areas of reduced roadway visibility with the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system engaged. The NHTSA has opened a Preliminary Evaluation of Tesla's FSD system to assess its ability to detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions.
In other news, HL Robotics has agreed to acquire Stanley Robotics, a company specializing in outdoor valet parking robots. The acquisition, expected to be finalized by the end of the year, is valued at USD 6.7 billion and is expected to position HL Robotics as a leader in the global parking robot market.
Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics, is excited about the collaboration, believing it will amplify people and improve the quality of life. Gill Pratt, chief scientist for Toyota and CEO of TRI, shares this sentiment, stating that the partnership will contribute to the advancement of robotics and autonomous vehicles, ultimately benefiting society.
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