Atoms, the startup founded by former Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick, is reportedly moving toward the autonomous vehicle sector, with plans that could position it as a significant player in the emerging robotaxi industry.
The company drew attention earlier this year when it closed a EUR 1 billion funding round led by venture firm Andreessen Horowitz. At the time, Kalanick offered few specifics about what the company intended to build, describing the effort only as “unfinished business.” New reporting now sheds light on those ambitions.
A Push Into Autonomous Vehicles
According to the Financial Times, Atoms is preparing for a major hiring push alongside a series of acquisitions aimed at establishing a strong foothold in self-driving technology. While the strategy points clearly toward robotaxis, sources cautioned that autonomous ride-hailing does not account for the full scope of the company’s plans.
The direction aligns with Kalanick’s characterization of the fundraising round as unfinished business, suggesting a return to the transportation space he helped reshape during his years leading Uber.
Ties to Uber and Existing Partnerships
The reporting indicates that Atoms has held discussions with Uber about how the ride-hailing platform might integrate the startup’s robotaxi technology. Uber already works with a wide range of autonomous vehicle developers, adding Atoms to a growing roster of potential partners.
Uber’s interest also extends beyond conversation. The company has invested EUR 86 million in Atoms, a figure that has been independently confirmed. That financial commitment underscores the connection between the two firms as the autonomous vehicle market continues to expand.
Acquisition Signals Strategic Intent
Atoms has already made moves that support its focus on autonomy. The startup acquired Pronto, a company specializing in self-driving technology for mining operations. Pronto is led by Anthony Levandowski, who previously headed Uber’s self-driving efforts.
Levandowski was convicted of stealing trade secrets and sentenced to 18 months in prison. He was later pardoned by President Donald Trump. His involvement adds an experienced, if controversial, figure to the Atoms operation as it builds out its technical capabilities.
The combination of a substantial war chest, planned acquisitions, an aggressive hiring strategy, and an established relationship with Uber positions Atoms to compete in one of the most closely watched segments of the technology industry. Uber’s EUR 86 million investment in the startup remains confirmed.
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Image: techcrunch.com
