Uber's CEO Resigns from Self-Driving Truck Startup Aurora's Board

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CEO of Uber Steps Down from Autonomous Vehicle Technology Company

On Friday, a regulatory filing revealed that Dara Khosrowshahi is resigning from the board of autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation. According to the filing, Khosrowshahi’s decision to leave was due to his desire to focus on his ongoing responsibilities as CEO of Uber and reduce external board commitments.

Background of Resignation

Khosrowshahi’s resignation was effective as of Tuesday. In a statement, Aurora Innovation stated that Khosrowshahi’s departure from the board was not the result of any disagreement with the company. This news comes just a couple of weeks after Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, shared his intention to step down effective January 6, 2025.

History between Uber and Aurora

The relationship between Uber and Aurora dates back to 2020 when Uber offloaded its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora. The deal at the time involved Uber handing over its equity in ATG and investing $400 million into Aurora, giving it a 26% stake in the combined company. As part of the deal, Khosrowshahi joined Aurora’s board.

Through Uber Freight, Uber’s freight brokerage platform that connects shippers and carriers, the ride-hail and delivery giant maintained its connection with Aurora. In June, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Aurora’s technology on the Uber Freight network. However, it is worth noting that Uber’s relationship with Aurora is not exclusive. The company also has a deal with Waabi, the self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, who had previously served as chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.

New Board Member

Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis, will join Aurora’s board in Khosrowshahi’s place. Bhatt has a background working for the Federal Highway Administration. This appointment comes as the company is looking to expand its expertise in autonomous vehicle technology.

Implications of Resignation

Khosrowshahi’s decision to leave the board may have implications for the future of Uber and Aurora’s partnership. The collaboration between the two companies has been significant, with plans to integrate trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network. However, it remains to be seen how Khosrowshahi’s departure will affect this partnership.

Recent Developments at Aurora

The resignation of Khosrowshahi comes amidst other recent developments at Aurora. In addition to Shenai’s announcement to step down as general counsel, Ossa Fisher, Aurora’s president, will take over Shenai’s responsibilities while the company considers his replacement.

Conclusion

Dara Khosrowshahi’s resignation from the board of Aurora Innovation marks a significant change for both companies. As Uber continues to navigate its relationship with Aurora and other autonomous vehicle technology startups, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of their partnership. With Shailen Bhatt joining the board, Aurora is looking to expand its expertise in autonomous vehicle technology.

About the Author

Rebecca Bellan is a Senior Reporter covering transportation for TechCrunch. She has a background in journalism and history from Boston University and has previously covered social media for Forbes.com.

Founding: 2017
CEO: Chris Urmson
Headquarters: Palo Alto, California
Focus: Autonomous vehicle technology
Notable Partnerships: Uber, Waabi

Recent Developments in the Transportation Industry

The transportation industry is undergoing significant changes with the rise of autonomous vehicle technology. Companies like Aurora Innovation and Uber are at the forefront of this innovation, working together to integrate self-driving trucks into their networks.