Autonomy – Q1 2026 highlights

The report covers latest advancements in automated and autonomous driving for Q1 2026, including breakthrough innovations in end-to-end software, evolving OEM strategies, regulatory shifts, and market trends shaping the global mobility landscape.

The following key points are highlighted: 

• Rapid innovation in automated driving (Physical AI, VLA, E2E).
• Software and E2E systems now key for scalability.
• NVIDIA Alpamayo’s open-source VLA lowers AV development costs.
• E2E required for advanced L2+/L3/L4; major OEMs deploying.
• In-house SoCs are costly; hybrid ASIC approaches emerging.
• L2+ generates US revenue; in China, L2+ is standard, not paid.
• EU regulations evolving for hands-free driving; L2++ focus as L3 adoption slows.
• L2+ sales grow globally; L4 robotaxi volumes limited by region/regulation.
• China prioritizes ADC/SoC, global markets focus on sensors/software.