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California

Tesla Drops “Autopilot” Marketing in California to Avoid Sales Ban

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 18, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

Tesla will no longer utilize the term “Autopilot” in its marketing materials within California, averting a potential 30-day suspension of its sales and manufacturing licenses in the state. The decision follows a ruling in December 2025 by a California administrative law judge who found the electric vehicle manufacturer had misled consumers regarding the capabilities of its “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” features. This resolution marks a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of advanced driver-assistance systems and their branding, particularly as automakers push the boundaries of autonomous technology.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) initially accused Tesla of deceptive marketing practices back in 2022, alleging that the company’s advertising, beginning in May 2021, misrepresented the functionality of both “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving Capability.” Specifically, the DMV argued that Tesla claimed these systems could operate vehicles “with no action required by the person in the driver’s seat,” a claim the agency refuted, stating that the vehicles “could not at the time of those advertisements and cannot now, operate as autonomous vehicles.” Fox Business reported on the DMV’s decision Tuesday.

Although Tesla had already begun clarifying that driver supervision is required when using “Full Self-Driving,” the continued use of the “Autopilot” moniker prompted the DMV to escalate the case to an administrative law judge. The judge sided with the DMV, recommending a 30-day suspension. However, the DMV offered Tesla a 60-day window to address the concerns, which the company has now satisfied by removing the contested term from its California marketing efforts. TechCrunch details the timeline of events leading to this outcome.

The potential suspension posed a substantial risk to Tesla, as California represents a significant portion of its U.S. Sales – nearly a third, according to reports. Avoiding this disruption allows Tesla to continue operating without interruption in its largest market. The move comes as Tesla is also shifting its manufacturing focus at its Fremont, California factory. The company is halting production of its Model S and X vehicles to retool the facility for the production of its Optimus humanoid robot, signaling a major investment in its robotics program. Tesla aims to begin selling the Optimus robot to the public by the complete of 2027.

The Evolution of Tesla’s Driver-Assistance System Naming

Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance systems have been a source of both innovation, and controversy. The initial branding of “Autopilot” suggested a level of automation that regulators and safety advocates argued was misleading. The DMV’s complaint centered on the disconnect between the marketing language and the actual capabilities of the system. By clarifying the need for driver supervision with “Full Self-Driving (Supervised)” and now removing “Autopilot” from its California marketing, Tesla is responding to regulatory pressure and aiming for greater transparency.

The situation highlights the challenges automakers face in naming and marketing advanced driver-assistance systems. Finding a balance between conveying the technology’s capabilities and avoiding consumer misunderstanding is crucial, especially as these systems become more sophisticated. The debate extends beyond Tesla, with other manufacturers also facing scrutiny over their automated driving features.

Recent discussions on the r/teslamotors subreddit suggest some users were anticipating this outcome, linking it to Tesla’s broader strategy regarding its driver-assistance offerings. Some speculate that the changes may pave the way for future advancements, such as fully unsupervised Full Self-Driving, potentially offered as a free upgrade to existing customers.

Looking ahead, the focus will be on how Tesla continues to refine and market its driver-assistance technologies. The company’s commitment to transparency and accurate representation of its systems will be critical in maintaining consumer trust and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. The development and rollout of the Optimus robot also represent a significant strategic shift for Tesla, potentially opening up new revenue streams and solidifying its position as a technology leader.

What are your thoughts on Tesla’s decision? Share your comments below and let us recognize what you suppose about the future of autonomous driving technology.

February 18, 2026 0 comments

world

Avalanche in California: 6 Found Alive, 10 Still Missing Near Lake Tahoe

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor February 18, 2026

written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

A massive search operation is underway near Castle Peak, California, after an avalanche struck on Tuesday, leaving six backcountry skiers rescued and ten others unaccounted for. The incident occurred amidst a powerful winter storm that has blanketed the Lake Tahoe region with heavy snowfall and triggered avalanche warnings.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call around 11:30 a.m. Reporting individuals buried in the snow near Castle Peak, a popular destination for backcountry skiing northwest of Lake Tahoe. Search and rescue teams, including personnel from the Sheriff’s Office, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), immediately mobilized to the area, according to Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Ashley Quadros.

Authorities initially reported 16 people were involved – four ski guides and 12 clients – but have since revised that number to 15. Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company leading the skiing trip, stated the group was returning from a three-day excursion at Frog Lake when the avalanche occurred. Two of the rescued skiers were hospitalized for treatment, though their conditions have not been released.

Dangerous Conditions Prompted Avalanche Warning

The avalanche occurred as a major winter storm continues to batter California, bringing dangerous conditions including thunderstorms, strong winds and significant snowfall to mountainous areas. The Sierra Avalanche Center, based in Truckee, had issued an Avalanche Warning for the Central Sierra Nevada, including the Lake Tahoe region, citing high avalanche danger in backcountry areas. Large avalanches were expected Tuesday and into Wednesday, according to the center’s forecast.

Castle Peak, rising to 9,103 feet in the Donner Summit area of the Sierra Nevada, is a well-known spot for backcountry skiing. The area had received at least 76 centimeters (approximately 30 inches) of snow in the 24 hours leading up to the avalanche, as reported by the Soda Springs mountain resort. The rapid accumulation of snow, combined with weakened layers in the snowpack and strong winds, created the hazardous conditions. The Sierra Avalanche Center noted that areas with avalanche mitigation programs were not expected to be at such high risk, but backcountry areas remained extremely dangerous.

Several ski resorts around Lake Tahoe were either fully or partially closed due to the extreme weather conditions. The storm has also disrupted travel, with traffic temporarily halted on Interstate 80 near the Nevada border due to spinouts and accidents, as reported by the California Department of Transportation.

Recent Avalanche History and Risks

This incident follows a similar tragedy in January, when an avalanche in the region claimed the life of a snowmobiler, authorities said. Avalanches pose a significant risk in the United States each winter, with the American Avalanche Association reporting that 25 to 30 people die in avalanche incidents annually.

The ongoing search efforts are being supported by specialized rescue ski teams from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and Tahoe Donner’s Alder Creek Adventure Center. A SnoCat team from Alder Creek is also assisting, along with a leadership team from Blackbird Mountain Guides. The California Office of Emergency Services is coordinating to provide additional resources to aid in the search for the missing skiers.

The Interstate 80 corridor has been significantly impacted by the storm, remaining closed since Tuesday morning from Colfax to the Nevada state line. This closure further complicates rescue efforts and highlights the severity of the weather conditions.

As of Wednesday morning, the search continues for the ten remaining skiers. Authorities are urging anyone planning backcountry activities in the Sierra Nevada to heed avalanche warnings and exercise extreme caution. The Avalanche Warning remains in effect through 5 a.m. Wednesday, with danger rated as “high” below the treeline and above.

The focus now remains on locating the missing skiers and providing support to those affected by this tragic event. Further updates will be provided as the search progresses and more information becomes available.

Please share this information with anyone planning winter activities in the Sierra Nevada region. If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional impact of this event, resources are available at SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline.

February 18, 2026 0 comments

News

CA Gas Prices Surge: Why California Pays More at the Pump (2025)

by February 17, 2026

written by

California drivers are facing significantly higher gasoline prices, with the statewide average reaching $4.589 per gallon as of Monday morning – nearly $1.67 more than the national average of $2.929, according to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA).

The surge in prices represents an increase of approximately 40 cents per gallon over the past month, a rate four times faster than the national average, which rose by less than 10 cents during the same period. The average price a month earlier was $4.205.

Several factors contribute to California’s consistently higher gas prices, including the state’s stringent environmental regulations, taxes and fees, and limited refinery capacity. California’s unique gasoline blend, designed to reduce pollution, as well adds to production costs. As of March 2025, California drivers pay the highest taxes at the pump in the country, totaling $0.90 per gallon, broken down as $0.18 federal, $0.60 state excise, $0.10 state sales tax, and $0.02 for an underground storage tank fee.

According to an analysis of a $4.59 per gallon price, approximately $0.54 is attributed to compliance with environmental programs, $0.32 to distribution and marketing, $0.98 to refining, and $1.84 to the cost of crude oil.

The impending closure of Valero’s Benicia Refinery, serving Northern California, is expected to exacerbate the situation. The 145,000-barrel-per-day refinery is slated to cease operations in April. Governor Gavin Newsom has stated that Valero will continue importing gasoline into Northern California even after fully exiting the market.

However, some observers attribute the rising prices to California’s regulatory environment. Critics point to the state’s cap-and-trade programs, blending requirements, lack of inbound pipelines, and the Jones Act as contributing factors. David Tangipa, a Republican member of the California Assembly, stated that the closure of the Benicia Refinery is a direct result of policy decisions by the state’s Democratic leadership, and warned that California has lost nearly 20 percent of its refining capacity in the last six months.

Nationally, gas prices are also on the rise, though at a slower pace. The national average has increased by 4.9 cents over the past month, reaching $2.84 per gallon as of Monday, according to GasBuddy data. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that upward momentum could accelerate as refinery maintenance intensifies and the transition to summer gasoline begins. He also highlighted the potential impact of OPEC+ production decisions and geopolitical tensions, particularly between the U.S. And Iran, on price volatility.

California alone refines more than 90 percent of the gasoline it consumes, according to the California Energy Commission, making it vulnerable to disruptions from refinery maintenance or closures. When local refineries cannot meet demand, the state is forced to import gasoline from other countries, often at a higher cost. Recent reports indicate increasing gasoline imports from the Bahamas.

February 17, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Robert Duvall Dies: Oscar Winner & ‘Godfather’ Star Was 95

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 16, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, renowned for his roles in classic films including the first two “Godfather” movies and “Tender Mercies,” passed away at the age of 95. Duvall died peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on February 15, 2026, surrounded by family, including his wife, Luciana Duvall, who shared heartfelt tributes to her husband through social media.

In a statement, Luciana reflected on Duvall’s legacy, stating, “To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything.” She emphasized his passion for acting, his love for storytelling, and the depth he brought to each character throughout his illustrious career.

Known for his versatility, Duvall’s career spanned nearly seven decades. He became a household name following his breakout role as Tom Hagen in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather” in 1972. Critics recognized him for his nuanced performances, where he often portrayed complex characters with subtlety and depth, such as the philosophical cattle-drive boss in the 1989 miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” a role he frequently cited as his favorite.

A Legacy of Iconic Roles

Robert Selden Duvall was born on January 5, 1931, in San Diego, California. He made his film debut as Boo Radley in “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962). Over the years, he accumulated a remarkable array of accolades, including seven Academy Award nominations, with a win for Best Actor in 1984 for his role in “Tender Mercies,” where he played an alcoholic country singer.

In addition to his Oscar, Duvall earned four Golden Globe Awards and two Primetime Emmy Awards. His work in “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now” solidified his status as one of the finest character actors of his generation. Duvall’s portrayal of Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in “Apocalypse Now” remains memorable, particularly for the line, “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.”

Impact on Film and Television

Throughout his career, Duvall’s performances were characterized by a commitment to authenticity and thorough preparation. He often immersed himself in his roles, conducting extensive research to portray characters accurately. Fellow actors, including Michael Caine, praised his intense focus and dedication, noting that Duvall often preferred solitude before filming significant scenes.

Despite his success, Duvall was also known for his strong opinions about the industry. He famously declined to participate in “The Godfather Part III” due to a salary dispute, a decision that resonated deeply with both fans and colleagues. His choices highlighted his desire for respect and fairness in an industry often dominated by financial negotiations.

Personal Life and Later Years

Duvall’s personal life was as colorful as his film roles. He was married four times, with his last marriage to Luciana Pedraza in 2005. His earlier marriages, to Barbara Benjamin, Gail Youngs, and Sharon Brophy, ended in divorce. Throughout his life, Duvall maintained a passion for various hobbies, including tango dancing, which he incorporated into the film “Assassination Tango,” where he also took on directing and producing roles.

In addition to his Oscar win, Duvall received a National Medal of Arts in 2005, recognizing his contributions to American culture through the arts. He remained active in the film industry, with recent appearances in “Widows” and “12 Mighty Orphans,” showcasing his enduring talent and relevance in Hollywood.

Remembering Robert Duvall

As the film community mourns the loss of Robert Duvall, his contributions to cinema will not be forgotten. Fans are encouraged to honor his memory by revisiting his films, sharing stories, and appreciating the artistry he brought to the screen. His legacy as a storyteller and actor will continue to inspire future generations.

In the wake of his passing, tributes from fans and fellow actors alike are pouring in, celebrating the life of a man who dedicated himself to the craft of acting and storytelling. Robert Duvall leaves behind a rich legacy, forever etched in the annals of film history.

February 16, 2026 0 comments

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