Tech News March 22, 2026: Self-Driving Buses, OpenAI Acquires Astral, & Quantum Computing Leaps
France to Launch Self-Driving Bus Service in Châteauroux by September 2026 The first regular service of self-driving buses in France is scheduled to launch in September 2026 in the city of Châteauroux. These autonomous vehicles will operate on a 2.5km route in the city center with a capacity for eight passengers. The project is a collaboration with transport operator Kéolis, featuring buses manufactured by Renault and WeRide, with each vehicle costing between €250,000 and €300,000. This initiative aims to address the shortage of bus drivers, offer more flexible service in less populated areas, and improve economies of scale. ...