Brief

European map provider TomTom has seen a tenfold increase in orders from Chinese automakers looking to expand internationally. The company is focusing on providing essential mapping and intelligent driving data to support Chinese car manufacturers in navigating complex overseas regulations and diverse road conditions. TomTom's platform offers standardized, scalable location data and software solutions, crucial for both in-car infotainment systems and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) used in global markets. AI

Hesai Technology has announced a strategic partnership with Mercedes-Benz to supply L3 autonomous driving lidar systems, with production slated for their Thai factory. This collaboration is part of Hesai's strong financial performance, marked by 680 million RMB in revenue for the first quarter of 2026, continuing an eight-quarter streak of year-over-year growth. The news also touches on Stellantis's potential collaboration with Leapmotor for electric vehicle production in Italy and an unrelated announcement about free ChatGPT Plus access in a specific country. AI

Wayve, an AI company specializing in self-driving technology, has announced a partnership with Stellantis, a major automotive manufacturer. This collaboration will integrate Wayve's AI-powered driving systems into Stellantis vehicles intended for the US market. The deal signifies a significant step for Wayve in bringing its advanced autonomous driving solutions to a broader consumer base. AI

Stellantis is planning a significant investment of approximately 60 billion euros by 2030 to launch over 60 new vehicle models. The company's strategy involves focusing substantial expenditure on core brands like Jeep and Ram, while other brands will concentrate on regional markets. In a separate development, Stellantis is reportedly considering integrating Wayve's self-driving technology into its Jeep, Ram, and Dodge vehicles. AI

Meta has initiated a global layoff of 8,000 employees, representing about 10% of its workforce, with affected employees in Singapore receiving notices as early as 4 AM. The company is also closing approximately 6,000 open positions and plans to reassign 7,000 existing employees to AI-focused projects. Meanwhile, DeepSeek is reportedly forming a new team to develop code intelligence agents, aiming to compete with Anthropic's Claude Code. AI

Stellantis is partnering with Chinese automaker Leapmotor to produce affordable electric vehicles in Italy, with the first model, dubbed 'E-Car,' slated for a 2028 launch. This collaboration aims to address the shrinking European market for compact economy cars by leveraging Leapmotor's competitive technology and reducing costs. The initiative is part of Stellantis's strategy to expand its electric vehicle offerings in the European market. AI

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are actively seeking to acquire or utilize idled production facilities in Europe, signaling a significant shift in the global automotive landscape. Companies like BYD are in discussions with Stellantis regarding the use of its dormant plants, while Stellantis itself has deepened a partnership with Leapmotor to establish EV production in Spain. This expansion is driven by China's manufacturing efficiency and battery technology, allowing them to compete effectively even with EU import tariffs, potentially impacting established European automakers who rely heavily on the Chinese market. AI