Magic tricks, Wi-Fi updates, an OEM panel, data security, leadership advice, evacuation training in a smoking bus and more! Tony, Ryan and Taylor discuss highlights from STN EXPO West that wrapped up last week in Reno, Nevada.

Read more STN EXPO West coverage.

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As part of the Salvation Army’s annual Stuff the Bus fundraiser, school supplies are being collected to help students in Fort Wayne, Indiana stock up ahead of the new school year, reported 21alive News.

According to the article, the school supply drive will kick off at at local Walmart. A full list of needed school supplies can be found here.

Organizers will at the Walmart until 6 p.m. local time, collecting donations. However, donations will be accepted through Tuesday.

Families in need can sign to receive supplies. The donation distribution is planned for July 30 from 4-7 p.m., at the local Salvation Army.

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Related: Arizona Annual Stuff the Bus Back to School Drive Returns
Related: Arkansas School Bus Driver Donates Shoes to Local Organizations
Related: Massachusetts School District to Host “Stuff-A-Bus” Event for Holiday Toy Drive
Related: Kentucky School Bus Driver Keeps Students Fed During Summer

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After what felt like the end of the road for the Clean School Bus Program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provided an update overview, including the anticipation of additional information regarding the 2024 rebate program.

In an email Monday, the EPA reminded awardees of next steps for the rebate and grant programs, provided program oversight and compliance, and shared resources and news.

For the 2022 CSB Rebate, EPA said it completed review of most school bus projects and Close Out Forms, or COF, submitted by rebate recipients. EPA also said it is actively working with selectees to ensure accuracy and completeness. For those who have not completed their COF, the EPA is working with those selectees to ensure it is submitted in an expedited fashion.

Additionally, EPA said it is performing site visits with all 2022 CSB rebate recipients.

Meanwhile, about 50 percent of the awarded funding under the 2023 CSB rebate program has been disbursed. The EPA is encouraging all selectees to submit their payment request forms (PRF) for those projects. If the PRF has not been submitted, selectees must either submit the form as soon as possible or request an extension via the online portal.

Upon completing the PRF, rebate selectees will receive an official funds disbursement email from the EPA, with the money typically available within seven to 10 days. Once selectees receive the funds they must “email the EPA’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer (EPA-CSB-FinancialReporting@epa.gov) within 10-business days of spending their funds on eligible expenses or passing the rebate funds to a third-party to complete the purchase for eligible expenses,” the EPA stated.

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Related: EPA CSBP Payment Request Deadline This Month
Related: Report Highlights Shift in Federal Policy from EVs to Conventional Fuels
Related: The State of Green School Buses
Related: Big Questions Vexing Student Transporters

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When school buses are deployed and replaced, and infrastructure is installed, the EPA stated that selectees will need to submit their 2023 COF.

EPA also reminded Clean School Bus Program grant recipients of the July 30 deadline for filing semi-annual reports, which cover January through June 2025. The EPA asked that all selectees submit their progress reports to the EPA project officer.

Additional information regarding the 2024 rebate program is forthcoming, EPA said.

The EPA is also hosting various webinars through its Office of Grants and Departments that could be of interest to grant awardees as well as webinars through the Automated Standard Application for Payments.

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The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) reported a reduction in illegal passing incidents that occur around school bus stops during the 2024-2025 school year.

The announcement of the 13th National Stop Arm Violation Count came during the National School Transportation Association Annual Meeting and Convention Tuesday in Boston, Massachusetts. Earlier this year, 36 states and the District of Columbia participated in voluntary one-day counts of motorists passing the federally mandated stop arm and flashing red lights at school bus stops while children are loading or unloading.

The 114,471 school bus drivers, or 31 percent of the nation’s total, reported a total of 69,408 vehicles passed their buses illegally. Adjusting to account for 100 percent all school bus drivers in the U.S., NASDPTS said over 225,000 illegal passing violations could occur on one day. NASDTPS also extrapolated that 40.6 million incidents could occur during a 180-day school year across all 50 states. While still high, the figure represents 10-percent fewer illegal passes than the 45.2 million reported for the 2023-2024 school year.

“We recognize for the first time we have seen reductions in illegal passings, but we also know the problem is far from resolved,” NASDPTS said in a statement.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, school districts nationwide saw the number of illegal passings spike. NASDPTS had previously cited 41.8 million violations occurring using data from the 2019 and 2022 surveys, as the survey was suspended for two years during the height of COVID, when schools nationwide closed their doors and few school buses were on route. The survey returned in 2022.

Meanwhile, the most recent survey indicated 80 percent of the reported illegal passes occurred on the left side of the stopped school bus. More notably, that left almost 20 occurring on the right side of the bus, where the loading doors are located and where students enter and exit.

Half of the observed illegal passes, 34,748 instances, occurred during afternoon routes. Nearly 46 percent, or 31,878 violations, occurred in the morning and 2,782 violations, 4 percent, occurred during midday routes. Over 63 percent of the violations were committed by motorists in oncoming vehicles as opposed to 23,372 vehicles, over 36 percent, following from the rear.

“The illegal passing of stopped school buses continues to be the greatest safety danger to children,” added Mike Stier, NASPTS president and the transportation program lead at the Illinois Board of Education. “We encourage each state to raise awareness on this important safety issue and to do everything possible to ensure motorists put the safety of school children first.”

Georgia led the way with the most school bus drivers participating in the one-day count at 13,468 followed by Tennessee with 11,811 and North Carolina with 10,597.

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Related: Combatting Illegal Passing with Awareness, Technology
Related: Georgia Gov Signs Law Following Fatal Illegal Passing Incident
Related: Florida Woman Convicted of 2021 Death of Girl at School Bus Stop
Related: Court Overturns Reckless Driving Conviction in Fatal Indiana Illegal Passing Case

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His cellphone notification pierced Jim’s normally quiet 6 a.m. coffee time at home. The alert pertained to school bus 12, prompting the transportation director to pull up the live feed from REI’s ARMOR Software Suite on his mobile device.* Because of the bus’s cellular-connected DVR, Jim saw bus 12 on its side along a rural gravel road.

He immediately contacted the driver to confirm everyone’s safety, then called 911. Shortly after, Jim reviewed the video clip that had uploaded to ARMOR Cloud from the DVR.* The cause was apparent: Washed-out gravel from a recent downpour caused the bus to slide off the road and overturn.

Within minutes, he sent video clips to school administrators, answered questions from parents and law enforcement, and did it remotely without leaving home. Additionally, the event video stored automatically and securely in the cloud for future reference. This streamlined process would facilitate speedy event resolution for your operation as well.

While Jim accessed ARMOR Cloud for safety reasons in this instance, the platform also provides additional benefits for transportation departments like yours:

Improved Efficiency

REI’s experienced cloud administrators manage your ARMOR server, licensing, updates and scalability. This removes technical overhead and allows your transportation staff to focus on managing the fleet instead of managing IT.

Reduced Costs

ARMOR Cloud eliminates the need for on-site servers and additional IT resources. REI handles the hosting, infrastructure and personnel needed to keep the system running smoothly.

Easy Access

Fleet data and video clips are uploaded automatically from cellular-connected DVRs and stored in a secure cloud environment. Your staff may access the system 24/7/365 from anywhere with an internet connection to review footage, check alerts, monitor vehicle activities and locations in real time, access REI equipment reports and more.

Data Security

All data and video are backed up in regional and national locations to reduce the risk of loss during power outages, storms or other disruptions.

Reduced Stress

Knowing that experienced IT professionals maintain system performance and protect your fleet data gives you and your team greater peace of mind.

Many school districts around the U.S. currently realize the benefits of ARMOR and ARMOR Cloud and appreciate their abilities to simplify operations. Contact REI today to learn how these solutions could transform your team’s approach to fleet management.

_{*Requires additional hardware and/or specific cellular service plans. Ask for details.}

The views expressed are those of the content sponsor and do not reflect those of School Transportation News.

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WOODRIDGE, ILL. – Hendrickson announces the official launch of the newest advancements in STEERTEK NXT steer axles on International RH, LT, and MV series trucks and IC Bus CE series buses, expanding the reach of Hendrickson’s next-generation axle technology to even more of the commercial vehicle market. Weight optimization was designed into every component, from axle seat and knuckle castings to axle beam refinements. Proudly fabricated and assembled in the U.S.A., this innovative axle design provides up to 25 pounds of additional weight savings compared to the previous generation, while maintaining its advantages in serviceability, dependability, and maintenance for today’s demanding fleet operations.

With this launch, Hendrickson has expanded its limited warranty coverage for STEERTEK NXT axles with rated capacities of up to 14,600 pounds. The existing 10-year, 1-million-mile limited structural warranty still covers the axle and kingpin assembly, steering arm assembly, and knuckle assemblies. Now, additional warranty coverage on kingpin bushings, kingpin wear, thrust bearings, tie rods, and tie rod ends is included for 5 years or 750,000 miles*.

“The expansion of our STEERTEK NXT advancements to International reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that provide value to fleets,” said Sean Whitfield, Director of Marketing at Hendrickson. “This axle is built to go the distance while making service easier and less frequent, which is a win for both fleets and technicians.”

Key Features and Benefits:

Proudly fabricated and assembled in the U.S.A.
Premium value steer axle at International
Weight savings for improved efficiency and payload capacity
Extended recommended service intervals to help reduce maintenance downtime
Two-piece knuckles for easier, more cost-effective service
Exceptional dependability backed by years of performance in commercial vehicle applications
Superior warranty coverage
*Refer to Hendrickson’s updated STEERTEK NXT/STEERTEK axle warranty statement for complete terms, conditions, and limitations

For more information on the latest STEERTEK NXT axle, visit Hendrickson – STEERTEK NXT / Fabricated Front Steer Axle.

Hendrickson, a Boler company, is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of medium- and heavy-duty mechanical, elastomeric and air suspensions; integrated and non-integrated axle and brake systems; tire pressure control systems; auxiliary lift axle systems; parabolic and multi-leaf springs; stabilizers; bumpers; and components to the global commercial transportation industry. Hendrickson, based in Woodridge, IL., USA, continues to meet the needs of the transportation industry for more than 110 years. Visit Hendrickson at www.hendrickson-intl.com.

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Small electric performance cars are picking up speed, and in Europe, Stellantis has quietly assembled a diverse lineup across its brands. Among them are the Abarth 600e, the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, the Lancia Ypsilon HF, and the upcoming Peugeot 208 GTI. Now Opel is joining the mix with a sportier take on the Mokka.

This electric variant kicks off Opel’s revamped GSE sub-brand with sharper styling and performance upgrades.

More: Opel’s Rugged SUV Could Rival Dacia’s Budget Off-Roader

The fastest electric Opel (Vauxhall in the UK) model to date looks more aggressive than the regular Mokka, taking inspiration by the GSE Rally prototype that debuted last May. Black inserts in the front and rear bumpers emphasize the air intakes, and GSE badging on the grille and side panels signals its performance focus. The standout, however, is the set of 20-inch alloy wheels with a clean, aerodynamic design and bright yellow brake calipers, which look especially large on a compact SUV.

Inside the cabin, the upgrades continue. The front seats are trimmed in Alcantara and shaped for extra support, matched by similarly finished door inserts. A reshaped steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and white and yellow accents help differentiate the GSE from its tamer siblings. The dual 10-inch screens in the digital cockpit now include performance-focused graphics unique to this model, providing real-time data while driving.

Performance Matches Rivals

Power comes from a single electric motor producing 278 horsepower (207 kW or 280 PS) and 345 Nm (254.5 lb-ft) of torque. These figures are in line with the top-spec versions of the Abarth and Alfa Romeo counterparts, as well as the earlier GSE Rally concept. The front wheels handle all that power with the help of a Torsen limited-slip differential.

Opel claims the Mokka GSE can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 5.9 seconds, while its top speed is capped at 200 km/h (124 mph. This makes the Mokka GSE quicker than the more powerful but heavier Grandland Electric AWD.

More: The Most Powerful Opel Ever Comes With A Shocking Price Tag

Besides having almost double the power of the standard Mokka Electric, the GSE features a unique chassis setup. The suspension has been lowered by 10 mm and includes dual hydraulic shock absorbers for better damping. The rear axle is stiffer, the steering has been retuned, and stopping power comes from Alcon brakes with 380 mm discs and four-piston calipers.

The Mokka GSE uses the same 54 kWh lithium-ion battery pack found in the regular Mokka Electric. However, due to the performance enhancements and extra hardware, the WLTP range is expected to fall short of the standard model’s 406 km (252 miles). Even so, the GSE keeps its weight under 1,600 kg (3,527 pounds), which is not bad for a fully electric crossover with this level of performance.

Details about the market launch and the pricing of the Opel Mokka GSE in Europe will be announced in the coming months. The model will also be available in the UK, albeit with Vauxhall emblems.

Opel

The Lucid Gravity is the brand’s white knight, but the Air is rolling into 2026 with a handful of updates. The biggest is access to the Tesla Supercharger network, although you’d have to be dumb or desperate to use it.

While that sounds odd, let us explain. Starting on July 31, Air owners can use a $220 NACS adapter to gain access to more than 23,500 Tesla Superchargers. That seems fantastic, but the Air is only capable of charging at speeds up to 50 kW. This means it could take up to an hour to gain 200 miles (322 km) of range.

More: Lucid Air Drivers Will Soon Be Passengers In Their Own Cars

That’s ridiculous for a ‘fast charger’ and you’d be far better off using a traditional CCS charging station. Depending on the trim, the Air supports a DC CCS fast charging capability of up to 300 kW and that’s six times higher than at a Tesla Supercharger.

Despite being terrible, Lucid’s Emad Dlala claimed “Access to the Tesla Supercharging network … is yet another major milestone.” However, if there are other alternatives, you should avoid Superchargers like the plague.

Besides Supercharger access, the 2026 Air Pure comes with an improved air conditioning compressor from the Gravity. It promises improved cooling as well as quieter operation.

Buyers will also find a newly standard Lucid Mobile Charging Cable Kit and optional 19-inch Aeronaut wheels, which are available in Platinum or Stealth. The Comfort and Convenience Package has also been updated to include a rear center console display and storage bin.

The $79,900 Air Touring builds on that and features higher density battery cells. They help to increase the EPA-estimated range over 6% to 431 miles (694 km).

Last but not least, the Air Grand Touring now comes standard with 20-way power front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Lucid said they “make road trips in the industry’s longest range electric vehicle, at up to 512 miles (824 km) of EPA-estimated range, even more comfortable and relaxing.”

2026 Lucid Air Pricing

Come September 30, not a single electric vehicle in the United States will qualify for a federal tax credit. As that deadline approaches, Tesla appears increasingly motivated to clear out as much inventory as possible.

The company has rolled out a number of incentives across its lineup, with a particular focus on the slow-selling Cybertruck. Even so, it’s unclear whether these perks will be enough to boost demand.

Review: GWM Ora GT Proves The Chinese Mean Business

There are dozens of Cybertrucks in Tesla’s current inventory, some of which are eligible for the federal EV tax credit, and some of which aren’t. Regardless, almost all of them are being sold with generous price cuts, with some valued at upwards of $3,000. Eligible vehicles can get the tax credit regardless of whether they purchase the electric pickup or lease it.

In case discounts and credits aren’t enough to convince people to get behind the wheel of a Cybertruck, there’s another incentive on offer. All Cybertrucks that are leased from Tesla’s current inventory now come standard with a 20-inch Cyber Wheel upgrade as standard, complete with all-terrain tires.

0 Percent Financing, With Conditions

In addition, the Cybertruck is available with 0 percent APR financing. However, this is only available for “well-qualified buyers with excellent credit” who order a new Cybertruck with Full-Self Driving and provide a minimum down payment of 4 percent on terms of up to 60 months.

Tesla has also started advertising several offers that apply across its range, including for the Cybertruck. For example, all military members, first responders, teachers, and students can receive a $1,000 discount for being ‘American Heroes,’ and every new Tesla includes a free one-month trial of Full Self-Driving.

Free FSD Transfers

Perhaps the most intriguing offer currently available is that Full Self-Driving can now be transferred to a new vehicle free of charge. Usually, FSD is locked to the vehicle, rather than the owners who have paid for it. During promotional periods like this, Tesla often offers free transfers of FSD for brief periods, but this appears to be the first time the Cybertruck has been included. While that’s a step in the right direction, Tesla should make FSD free to transfer for all owners, all the time.

President Trump’s trade war continues to cause self-inflicted injuries as American companies are getting slammed by higher fees. This includes General Motors, which revealed tariffs cost them $1.1 billion in the second quarter.

All told, the automaker is expecting tariffs to cost them between $4 and $5 billion this year alone. That’s a staggering figure and one that will likely result in price increases.

More: GM Needs A Corvette Turnaround As Sales Crash In First Half

Tariffs aside, the company earned $47.1 billion in revenue in the second quarter and had an adjusted EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes) of $3 billion. GM went on to note the latter figure decreased primarily due to tariffs.

In North America, the company reported net revenues of $39.5 billion. This was aided by record crossover sales as well as strong demand for trucks. U.S. dealer inventories were also down in Q2, while EV sales were up significantly.

Other notable takeaways include lower than average incentive spending and average transaction prices in excess of $51,000. The automaker said this shows “robust demand across our portfolio.”

While the elimination of the clean vehicle credit will likely cause chaos, GM noted second quarter EV sales were up 111% from a year ago and they controlled 16% of the U.S. EV market.

Chevrolet became the second best-selling EV brand as sales jumped 146% in Q2. This is largely due to the affordable Equinox EV, which is the third best-selling electric vehicle in America so far this year. The company went on to note Cadillac is the best-selling electric luxury brand and the 5^th largest EV brand in America – including both luxury and mainstream brands.

In a letter to shareholders, CEO Mary Barra acknowledged slower EV growth. However, she said “We believe the long-term future is profitable electric vehicle production, and this continues to be our north star. As we adjust to changing demand, we will prioritize our customers, brands, and a flexible manufacturing footprint, and leverage our domestic battery investments and other profit-improvement plans.” Speaking of flexibility, Barra noted ICE models have a “longer runway” than initially expected.

Lead image credit: White House photo

With the release of its all-electric M3, BMW’s M division will embark on a brave new future and try to convince gearheads it’s possible to have a fun and engaging EV. While it’ll be some time before anyone gets behind the wheel of this promising new model, recent spy photos offer a surprisingly detailed glimpse at what’s to come. So far, things are looking encouraging.

Read: This BMW M3 May Be The Heaviest Yet But Also The Quickest Ever

Visually, the electric M3 will mark one of the first entries in BMW’s Neue Klasse lineup, bringing with it a noticeably different design language compared to today’s M3. One of the biggest changes is at the front. The oversized and much criticized kidney grilles from the six-cylinder version appear to be on the way out.

A New Take on the Front End

Based on prototype sightings, these renderings from Kolesa suggest the electric M3, possibly named the iM3, will feature sharp headlights integrated cleanly into slim, illuminated kidney grilles. It looks excellent, which isn’t a word we’re used to using when it comes to modern BMW designs. The publication has also imagined the new sports sedan with a large secondary lower grille finished in black, adding to the aggressive looks.

The same testers also hint that the side profile of the new model will differ significantly from the G80 M3, drawing more from the design of the latest 5-Series. This will include door handles that sit flush with the bodywork and simpler lines. Then there’s the rear.

The taillights of the new model should be similar to those from the recent Vision Driving Experience demonstrator, but if these renders prove accurate, they’ll be slightly smaller and slimmer. A sculpted bumper with a pronounced diffuser gives the rear a more commanding and purposeful appearance.

Powertrain Possibilities

BMW hasn’t shared official specs for the iM3 just yet, but all signs point to a quad-motor layout. While the theoretical output of this setup could reach a staggering 1,341 horsepower, equivalent to one Megawatt, the Germans are expected to dial it back to somewhere in the range of 700 to 800 horsepower for production. Even at those numbers, it would make this the most powerful M3 to date, and possibly the quickest as well.

Cadillac has expanded its electric lineup more than ever, but shifting consumer interest in the States could complicate its all-EV ambitions. As demand for electric vehicles tapers off, the company may need to revisit its goal of becoming an EV-only brand by 2030.

The final quarter of this year could be especially challenging, since the federal EVs tax credit is scheduled to end, likely making both new and used electric models less accessible to many buyers.

Read: Cadillac Is About To Lose $7,500 Per EV And Still Isn’t Backing Down

GM’s flagship brand has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past couple of years. It first launched the all-electric Lyriq SUV and more recently, it’s been followed up by the electric Optiq and the three-row Vistiq. Additionally, Cadillac wants to once again become the ‘Standard of the World’ with the Celestiq. It has also launched two electric versions of the Escalade, known as the IQ and IQL.

Flexibility in a Shifting Market

Even with these investments, Cadillac is approaching the market with cautious adaptability. According to global Cadillac vice president John Roth, the brand is staying open to adjusting its powertrain strategy as needed.

“It’s really important in this continuously evolving marketplace to make sure that you’re meeting customers where they are,” he said. “The auto industry is never a straight line, and so to put absolutes in the marketplace, you’ve got to have some flexibility to pivot when it makes sense to do so.”

As Auto News pointed out, more manufacturers are acknowledging that both gasoline and electric models need to be available side by side, with consumers ultimately setting the pace for the transition. Roth confirmed that GM is actively working on plans for the fourth quarter to prepare for the end of the tax credit.

A Shrinking Gas-Powered Lineup

While Cadillac has grown its fleet of EVs, its range of ICE models has shrunk dramatically. The company recently halted production of the XT4, and the XT6 is set to follow later this year.

The XT5 is expected to remain in the lineup only through 2027. Meanwhile, the factory that currently produces the CT4 and CT5 sedans is being converted to focus exclusively on EVs. This shift could eventually leave the Escalade as the last gas-powered Cadillac standing.

It’s not unusual for dealers and early owners of in-demand cars to take delivery, and then quickly try to sell them for a tidy profit. However, the vehicles in question are usually limited-run performance models or cars that’ll only be built for a short time. The Xiaomi YU7 doesn’t fit into either one of those categories, and yet, people are already trying to flip them.

Read: Xiaomi SUV’s Tesla-Beating Pricing Sparks Frenzy With 289,000 Orders In An Hour

Shortly after it was revealed that Xiaomi had received 289,000 orders for the YU7 an hour after the order books opened, several of the first cars have already found themselves listed for sale. There are currently about 80 YU7s listed for resale in China, and some have hefty markups. Evidently, it’s not just Americans who have to deal with eye-watering dealer premiums.

Early Listings, Fast Markups

As reported by CarNewsChina, prices for YU7s on the used market range from roughly 350,000 yuan to 390,000 yuan (about $48,300 – $53,800 at current exchange rates). While Xiaomi’s all-electric SUV still sounds like an excellent deal for those prices, prices for a new YU7 start at 279,900 yuan ($38,600) and top out at 329,900 yuan ($45,600).

Although the YU7 is positioned as a mass-market EV, the extraordinary demand means shoppers will be waiting a long time to take delivery. In fact, wait times for the entry-level model currently stand at 57-60 weeks, while buyers for the Pro have to wait 49-52 weeks. The flagship Max has wait times between 41-44 weeks.

Resale Value Could Stay Strong

Once more YU7 models start to land in the driveways of buyers, prices of used examples will inevitably start to fall. But, given how fond Chinese consumers are of the Xiaomi brand, depreciation could be minimal. Local data reveals that the Xiaomi SU7 sedan has ranked the highest of all Chinese cars for resale, retaining 88.91 percent of its value after the first year.

Tesla is facing mounting regulatory pressure in California as it prepares to defend how it markets its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features. The hearing, set for next week, stems from earlier claims by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that the company misled consumers about the true capabilities of its driver-assistance systems.

The outcome could have significant consequences for Tesla’s business in California, as regulators are weighing whether to suspend or revoke the company’s dealer license, which authorizes it to sell vehicles in the state.

More: Tesla Penalized Over A Word In Driver Assistance Tests And It Could Cost Them More Than A Score

The case dates back to July 2022, when the California DMV alleged that Tesla overstated what its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems could do. According to the complaint, marketing materials gave the impression that Tesla vehicles were “able to conduct short and long-distance trips with no action required in the driver’s seat.”

Hearing Could Affect Tesla’s Operations in California

In June 2025, a California judge declined to dismiss the claims, ordering Tesla to appear before an administrative law judge in Oakland. The five-day hearing is set to begin Monday. As reported by Bloomberg, the regulator is seeking to suspend or revoke Tesla’s dealer license in California, putting the company’s ability to sell vehicles in the state at risk.

Tesla’s legal team argues that the contested marketing language is protected under free speech, and that statements about the company’s autonomous driving capabilities were taken out of context – omitting the disclaimers and warnings that the Autopilot requires “active driver supervision.”

Robotaxi Ambitions Add to the Stakes

At the same time, Tesla is seeking regulatory approval to expand its robotaxi program in San Francisco. If granted, a fleet of Tesla Model Y vehicles would operate autonomously, albeit with human supervision and within a geo-fenced area, The move would place Tesla in direct competition with Waymo, which already provides similar services in the city.

Separate Trial in Florida Raises Broader Safety Questions

Meanwhile, Tesla is embroiled in a jury trial in Miami over a 2019 crash involving a Tesla Model S that struck and killed a pedestrian. The jury must decide whether Tesla’s Autopilot system shares blame with the vehicle’s distracted driver. Similar fatal crashes involving Autopilot are under regulatory investigation, with more trials expected in the coming years.

In the Miami trial, the plaintiffs called engineering professor and former Navy pilot Mary “Missy” Cummings as an expert witness. She criticized the Autopilot branding, saying it creates unrealistic expectations based on its aviation counterpart.

More: This City Could Be Tesla’s Toughest Robotaxi Challenge Yet

“It engenders a lot more inappropriate confidence in the car, because autopilot is such a good technology in aviation,” Cummings said. “Somehow, we feel like that is going to translate to a really effective tech in the car.” She added that the term leads to “a mismatch in the consumer’s head.”

Tesla maintains that remarks about autonomous driving without human involvement are “future-facing” and “don’t reflect the current technology”. The Tesla Autopilot is currently classified as a Level 2 ADAS, as it requires continuous driver supervision. Elon Musk has repeatedly predicted that Tesla would reach full autonomy (Level 5), but these goals have not materiliazed

Tesla

A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in California earlier this week when a Tesla Cybertruck had to be hauled out of a ravine after veering off the road in Cajon Pass. The futuristic pickup, already known for its unconventional design, looked far worse for wear by the time it was recovered, and likely won’t be returning to the road.

Read: Cybertruck Allegedly Racing Lambo Smashes Into At Least Nine Cars

It’s understood that the driver of the Tesla lost control of the electric pickup on I-15 at roughly 3:15 a.m. on July 20. There’s no word on how the driver managed to lose control of the Tesla so horribly, but it ended up roughly 600 feet away from where it appears to have entered an area of shrubbery off to the side of the road.

A Tough Morning for Towing Crews

Rather than attempting an immediate recovery in the dark, officers from the California Highway Patrol left the Cybertruck in place until reopening the scene at approximately 7:31 a.m., reports VVNG. A local towing company, Armada Towing, was called to retrieve the Cybertruck.

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A clip shared to social media by Armada Towing shows that pulling the Cybertruck away from its grave was no easy feat. Heavy straps had to be wrapped around the bodywork before a crane arm attached to the tow truck slowly winched it out of position. It was then lifted over the guardrail.

While the strong stainless steel bodywork of the Cybertruck appears to have withstood the crash quite well, two of its wheels have been ripped off, and it appears all of the airbags have been deployed. There are no details regarding the condition of the driver, but they were reportedly able to escape through the left rear passenger door, which was left ajar in the crash.

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Honda and Acura electric vehicle drivers now have a significantly broader charging network at their disposal. The Prologue and ZDX crossovers can officially plug into Tesla’s Supercharger network across North America, thanks to a newly approved adapter.

Both models continue to use the CCS (Combined Charging System) port but are now compatible with Tesla’s NACS (North American Charging Standard) through this accessory, which is available for $225.

More: Sales Of Honda’s Only American EV Soar 963%

The company says that the approved adapter has been “tested for performance and compatibility” with the Prologue and ZDX, ensuring a “reliable charging experience”. While aftermarket solutions are available, Honda says that “damage caused to a vehicle resulting from the use of an unapproved adapter may not be covered under vehicles’ limited warranties”.

The official NACS adapter is currently on sale through authorized Honda and Acura dealerships, as well as via the Honda DreamShop website, all priced at $225.

Initially, Honda and Acura EV owners will have to log into the Tesla app to use a Tesla Supercharger, but the automaker has promised future integration with the HondaLink and Acura EV applications. Furthermore, the standard Google built-in Maps on the infotainment allows owners to locate Tesla Superchargers.

Honda

As of June 2025, the company has sold 49,334 units of the Honda Prologue and 17,726 units of the Acura ZDX in the US market, meaning that the news affects a pool of 67,060 EV owners. Both electric crossovers were developed in collaboration with GM.

More: Honda Pulls Plug On Key Electric SUV For US Market

The first Honda models equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NCAS) port will be the production versions of the 0 Series sedan and SUV, scheduled to reach dealers in 2026.

The deal between Honda and Tesla was first announced in 2023, following a similar move by several other automakers. The Tesla Supercharger network now includes more than 23,500 locations across the United States. By 2030, Honda and Acura EV owners are expected to have access to roughly 100,000 DC fast chargers throughout North America, spanning multiple charging networks.

Honda

As scooters and motorcycles weave through Hanoi’s crowded streets, they reflect a way of life as much as a mode of transport. But starting in mid-2026, the Vietnamese capital will begin phasing out a familiar sight: combustion-engine two-wheelers. In a country where affordable motorbikes are deeply ingrained in daily life, this marks a dramatic transition, one that may set a precedent for other cities and countries in the region.

Read: Vietnam Paying Citizens Up To $200 To Snitch On Bad Drivers

A new directive announced by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh says that gas-powered scooters and motorcycles will be banned from most of the capital’s downtown areas, starting July 1, 2026. The ban will then extend to a larger part of Hanoi from January 1, 2028, and then encompass the entire city by 2030.

A City Built on Motorbikes

It’s believed that Hanoi is home to approximately 7 million motorbikes and scooters, the vast majority of which are gas-powered. There are approximately 72 million motorbikes and scooters across the entire country. The ban aims to reduce toxic emissions and pollution levels in the city.

According to VNExpress, approximately 5.6 million of the motorbikes registered in Hanoi run on gasoline, and roughly 1.3 million are electric. There are also about 1 million cars on the city’s roads. While several companies sell electric motorbikes in Vietnam, including Selex Motors and VinFast, there’s reportedly a “woeful lack of infrastructure for charging.”

Is The Switch To Electric Achievable?

Many of the electric bikes currently available come with swappable batteries, similar to those found in abundance in Taiwan. One of the main issues of the electric transition is that there are no government incentives for purchasing electric motorcycles. However, registration fees are waived for electric cars.

The economics paint a challenging picture. Last year, the average Hanoi resident earned the equivalent of just under $6,250. A new electric scooter typically costs between $1,150 and $1,900, placing it out of reach for many. The former chairman of the Vietnam Automobile Transport Association has suggested the city offer financial support in the form of subsidies, grants, or low-interest loans to make the transition more accessible.

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School Transportation News sat down with Patrick Duan, Co-CEO at RIDE to learn more about how the electric school bus manufacturer is approaching the North American school bus market and the future of funding.

Duan started his career with parent company BYD in 2004, serving as a design engineer. He continued up the ranks, ultimately serving as the senior vice president of operations. After 20 years with BYD, Duan became the co-chief executive officer of the new RIDE division. He’s held the position for the past two years.

RIDE, which offers purpose built electric school buses, launched its Achiever Type A followed by its Dreamer Type D in 2021. Its Creator Type C officially entered the market last summer, at which point STN EXPO West trade show attendees voted it the Best Green Technology.

Duan discusses the guiding principles of RIDE, the remaining challenges and emerging opportunities of electric school buses, and more.

STN: What inspires RIDE when creating new school buses and technology?

Duan: At RIDE, we develop and deliver innovative transportation technologies designed to positively impact people’s lives, especially those of children, our most important passengers. Inspired by a deep commitment to safety and health, we strive to create solutions that ensure a secure and nurturing journey for the next generation.

STN: What is your long-term vision for the future of school transportation in the U.S., and how does RIDE fit into that picture?

Duan: School transportation will not only be safer, cleaner and more efficient, but it will also contribute to energy resiliency. Battery-electric school buses serve as mobile energy storage units, integrating with local microgrids to support the community’s energy needs.
RIDE emphasizes the innovation of battery technology and integration with charging infrastructure and utility platforms, while maintaining a strong focus on customer support.

STN: What do you see as the advantages of electric school buses, beyond the environmental benefits?

Duan: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). Bi-directional capability allows electric school buses to both draw power from and supply power to the grid. This enables ESBs to act as distributed energy resources, supporting grid stability, peek shaving, and energy storage, making them active participants in modern, flexible grid systems. V2G capability makes ESBs not only cleaner but also more cost-efficient for school transportation by allowing electric school buses to store energy when demand and prices are low and feed that energy back to the grid when demand is high.

STN: What are some of the challenges school districts face when transitioning to electric school buses? How is RIDE helping them overcome those barriers?

Duan: Transitioning to ESBs requires extensive project coordination among key stakeholders, including OEMs, contractors and utility companies. While ESBs offer significant long-term cost savings over traditional powertrains, the initial investment for vehicles, chargers and infrastructure can be substantial. RIDE Eco, a dedicated team supported by a nationwide network of partners, was formed three years ago to deliver turnkey solutions that cover charging infrastructure, technology integration and project financing, simplifying the transition for school districts.

STN: What has customer feedback been on the Type C Creator that STN EXPO West attendees awarded Best Green Technology last year?

Duan: Thank you for the recognition. We’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback on the quiet, smooth operation of the Creator, as well as its versatile range of vehicle sizes and battery capacities. What truly sets the Creator apart is its commitment to safety—featuring the “Blade Battery” design—and our industry-leading, 12-year, 800 MWh throughput battery warranty, providing unmatched long-term value and peace of mind.

STN: Why is the Blade an important long-term technological advancement for RIDE’s electric school buses?

Duan: The new Blade Battery offers exceptional safety and longevity. Built with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, it has passed demanding safety tests—including the nail penetration test—without emitting smoke or fire, showcasing outstanding thermal stability. Its innovative blade-shaped, cell-to-pack architecture eliminates traditional modules, significantly boosting space efficiency and enabling higher volumetric energy density for extended driving range.

STN: Can you share any details of pilot programs or partnerships that you see as proving the business case for electric school buses?

Duan: Since 2024, we have delivered over 160 electric school buses in the U.S. A flagship deployment in Northern California features 75 RIDE Achiever buses equipped with V2G technology. On average, this fleet collectively returns 4.5 MWh of energy to the grid each day—enough to power approximately 150 homes for a full day.

STN: How do you see policy and funding (EPA Clean School Bus Program, state funding, mandates, regulations) playing a role in accelerating the adoption of electric school buses?

Duan: Federal and state-level funding and mandates are essential for accelerating the adoption of ESBs. Programs such as the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program provide substantial grants and rebates that help offset the upfront costs of the vehicles and associated charging infrastructure. In addition, state-level incentives increase affordability and often align with broader climate and transportation goals. States like California have
implemented mandates with clear timelines, creating market certainty for school districts, manufacturers and utility providers.

These funding mechanisms often go beyond vehicle procurement, including support for planning and infrastructure development. This ensures that districts are equipped not only with buses, but also with the necessary charging equipment, workforce training and grid upgrades. Such support is especially critical for enabling advanced technologies like V2G, which require robust infrastructure and coordination across multiple sectors.

STN: How do you see tariffs impacting the industry?

Duan: Tariffs could significantly impact the entire school bus industry and its supply chain. This is particularly true for the rapidly growing ESB sector, where tariffs can create short-term cost pressures and disrupt supply chains. These added costs may slow down deployment and strain school district budgets.

STN: Why did RIDE choose to build up its school bus inventory instead of 100-percent, made-to-order like other OEMs?

Duan: RIDE brings extensive experience in designing and manufacturing a wide range of commercial electric vehicles, including transit buses and coaches—segments that typically operate within a made-to-order, highly customized market. However, when we began developing our school bus platforms several years ago, we recognized a unique opportunity: To standardize the platform design.

This strategic shift has enabled significant improvements in our manufacturing processes, enhancing overall production efficiency, consistency and scalability. By moving away from a fully customized model and adopting a standardized approach for school buses, RIDE is better positioned to meet growing demand, streamline operations and deliver high-quality electric school buses at scale.

STN: What other innovations or trends are you most excited about in the next five years for school bus fleet electrification?

Duan: Two major innovations are poised to redefine the future of electric school bus fleets. First is the mass-market implementation of V2G technology, which positions ESBs as critical assets in energy resilience. By enabling bidirectional charging, school buses can store and return electricity to the grid, supporting peak load management, emergency back up, and greater grid stability.

Second is the integration of advanced driver assistance technologies, a game changer for both safety and operational performance. These technologies enhance driver and passenger safety, improve the overall driving experience, help address the ongoing driver shortage by easing workload, and boost fleet efficiency through features such as automated braking, lane-keeping and collision avoidance.

STN: Thank you.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the June 2025 issue of School Transportation News.

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Related: (STN Podcast E265) Onsite at STN EXPO West: Innovations & Partnerships for School Transportation Success
Related: Funding, Data and Resiliency Needed for Electric School Bus Success
Related: V2G Legislation Looks to School Buses to Help Power Electric Grid
Related: Gallery: Green Buses, Bus Technology Highlighted on STN EXPO West Day 3

The post Going On an Electric RIDE With Patrick Duan appeared first on School Transportation News.