Bankruptcy Hits Two More Companies in the Transportation Industry
However, the year in transportation started with a couple of bankruptcies — Canoo and Nikola — and now it’s ending with two more. Rad Power Bikes is coming to an end — or at least a bankruptcy. The electric bike company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, weeks after it warned employees that it could shut down without new funding.
Luminar Also Files for Bankruptcy
Moreover, troubled lidar maker Luminar, which also filed for bankruptcy this week, does not seem like a let’s-help-it-live-another-day type of situation. The Luminar bankruptcy notes the company plans to sell off the business. It has already reached a deal to sell its semiconductor subsidiary.
EVs and Robotaxis Continue to Innovate
Meanwhile, EVs have had their struggles this year and automakers have struggled to adjust. However, the emerging robotaxi industry has indeed emerged. With that, new kinds of autonomous vehicle-adjacent companies are popping up, and it’s expected to become a trend in 2026.
Other News and Deals
Consequently, Ford is pivoting yet again. The company said this week it is ending production of the fully-electric F-150 Lightning as part of a broader companywide shake-up that will put more emphasis on hybrids and gas-powered vehicles. As part of its shift, Ford is turning to the increasingly popular “extended range electric vehicle” version of the truck.
Upcoming Events and Trends
In addition, the EV is not dead. And the promise of smaller, more affordable ones are looming in the near distance with the imminent launch of Rivian’s R2 and Slate Auto’s electric truck. Techcrunch event Join the Disrupt 2026 Waitlist Add yourself to the Disrupt 2026 waitlist to be first in line when Early Bird tickets drop.
Other Notable Reads and Tidbits
However, Redwood launched a newly patented Battery Collection Bin designed to encourage consumers to recycle batteries. The system, which will launch in San Francisco, safely stores, packages, and monitors hundreds of batteries and battery-containing devices.
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