The Trump administration is easing regulatory hurdles for self-driving cars, aiming to boost US automakers' competitiveness against China. Carmakers can now seek exemptions from certain safety rules for research and demonstrations. While crash reporting will remain, the federal government plans to streamline the process, addressing concerns raised by Tesla CEO Elon Musk about the current system's burdensomeness.
Related news
Karina Gould announces her candidacy for the Liberal leadership race, emphasizing the need for new leadership to address the concerns of everyday Canadians. At 37, she is the youngest candidate in the contest to replace Justin Trudeau. Other confirmed candidates include Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland. Gould highlights the importance of earning back public trust and rebuilding the Liberal Party.
Nasa employees have been directed to remove all pronouns from emails and other applications following an executive order from the Trump administration. In response, Nasa disabled the ability to add pronouns in user displays and mandated uniform signature blocks. Public materials referencing gender identity were also affected.
A methane gas explosion caused a mine collapse in southwest Pakistan, trapping at least 12 miners. Rescue operations are ongoing in the Balochistan province with no rescues yet. The incident, occurring in Singidi, has prompted an investigation. Poor safety standards in Pakistan's coal mining industry have previously led to fatal accidents.
Hamas confirmed it would release the next group of Israeli hostages to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza. Mediation by Egypt and Qatar helped resolve disputes regarding the truce's conditions. Israel insists on the release of more hostages, threatening to escalate the conflict if demands are not met.
US Vice President JD Vance criticized European leaders at the Munich security conference, accusing them of failing to protect democracy and free speech in their own countries while ignoring citizens' concerns. He condemned the suppression of different viewpoints and the consequences of unchecked mass migration in Europe.
Elon Musk criticized Republican senator Todd Young, calling him a 'deep state puppet' over Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation, but later retracted after a conversation with Young. The senator's stance on Gabbard's nomination for DNI has sparked intense criticism from many Republicans. Senator Yong will be a great ally in restoring power to the people from the vast, unelected bureaucracy," Elon Musk posted hinting that he probably convinced him.
Dubai International Airport set a new record with 92.3 million passengers in 2024, surpassing its previous high in 2018. This growth marks Dubai’s strong recovery post-pandemic, driven by tourism and real estate booms. Authorities plan to shift operations in a decade to Al Maktoum International Airport, following a $35 billion expansion. DXB remains a key hub for global travel, serving 106 airlines across 107 countries.
UK Conservative MP Bob Blackman extended Holi wishes in the House, explaining the festival's lore and advising first-timers to avoid business attire to enjoy the celebration. He highlighted the festival's significance, celebrating the divine love of Radha and Krishna and the triumph of good over evil, wishing everyone a joyful Holi.
Highway 407 drivers in Ontario can travel for free during rush hour in March, thanks to 407 ETR's promotion. The offer, available for personal vehicles with Ontario plates, requires signing up for an account by February 28. Tolls, camera charges, and account fees are waived, but transponder lease fees still apply.
USAID allocated $29 million to a controversial political project in Bangladesh without passing funds through official channels, as confirmed by Bangladesh's NGO affairs bureau. Despite the controversy, support for Rohingya-related projects remains unaffected. The funding issue arises from accusations by President Trump on the nature of the fund's allocation, criticizing a small firm's receipt of the money.