Uber is strategically investing in Wayve, an extension of the U.K.-based startup’s previously announced $1.05 billion Series C funding round. This partnership will involve collaboration with automakers to integrate Wayve’s AI technology into consumer vehicles that will eventually operate on Uber’s platform.
The announcement comes shortly after Uber revealed that Cruise’s robotaxis would be part of the Uber app by 2025. This is part of Uber’s ongoing efforts to secure partnerships in autonomous driving technology.
Wayve, founded in Cambridge in 2017, has attracted over $1.3 billion in funding from notable backers like SoftBank Group, Nvidia, and Microsoft. The startup focuses on developing a self-learning autonomous driving system, similar to Tesla’s AI approach, that does not rely on lidar sensors but instead uses cameras and radar for perception.
The partnership between Uber and Wayve envisions enabling future self-driving vehicles powered by Wayve on Uber’s network. The specifics of the deal, timeline, and investment amount were not disclosed by either Wayve or Uber.
Wayve’s CEO Alex Kendall expressed enthusiasm about expanding the company’s AI fleet learning through the partnership with Uber. They aim to ensure the safety and global deployment readiness of their AV technology.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi sees promise in Wayve’s AI approach as they work towards a future of shared, electric, and autonomous vehicles. This partnership aims to collaborate with automotive OEMs to accelerate the adoption of autonomous driving technologies.
Uber has been actively positioning itself as a key partner for self-driving startups. They have integrated Waymo’s robotaxis in Phoenix and partnered with autonomous delivery and freight companies to bring self-driving capabilities to Uber Eats and Uber Freight.
