No surprise that the global oil crisis is leading to more EV sales, the FCC's robot ban also includes vacuums, and OpenAI will provide free AI models to select researchers

-The gain for electrified vehicles comes during a down period for the auto industry. Global car sales dropped five percent in the first half of 2026, largely due to falling shipments in the world's two largest car markets, China and the US. -The FCC defines "advanced robotic devices" as a software-controlled autonomous robot that can perceive its environment, weighs more than 4.4lbs (inclusive of its dock), travels across the ground and offers wireless connectivity. -Researchers from "select academic institutions" included in the program will receive hands-on support from OpenAI, access to the company's latest GPT-5.6 Sol Pro model and be able to invite four collaborators from their institution to participate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices