Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Sep 6
Atoms Targets Robotaxis After $1.7 Billion Raise as Uber Invests $100 Million
Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Sep 6

Atoms Targets Robotaxis After $1.7 Billion Raise as Uber Invests $100 Million

2 articles · Updated · TechCrunch · Sep 6

Summary

  • Atoms is preparing a hiring spree and acquisitions to build a major robotaxi technology business, according to a Financial Times report that clarifies Travis Kalanick’s plans after the startup’s recent fundraising.
  • The push follows Atoms’ $1.7 billion round led by Andreessen Horowitz and aligns with Kalanick’s description of the company’s mission as “unfinished business.”
  • Uber has discussed using Atoms’ robotaxi technology and has already invested $100 million in the startup, adding a potential commercial link to the financial backing.
  • Atoms’ direction also fits its earlier acquisition of Pronto, the autonomous mining startup led by former Uber self-driving chief Anthony Levandowski, though sources said robotaxis are not the company’s only focus.

Insights

Why is Uber quietly pouring millions into the autonomous ambitions of the very founder it ousted nearly a decade ago?
Can a controversial duo's vision-first tech truly disrupt the self-driving market, or is this billion-dollar pivot destined to crash?