The Financial Times reports that Travis Kalanick’s startup, Atoms, is preparing for a significant hiring spree and potential acquisitions, positioning the company to become a major player in the autonomous vehicle industry. The article suggests that Atoms has been in discussions with Uber regarding the potential use of its robotaxi technology by the ride-hailing company, which has a history of partnering with autonomous vehicle firms. The Financial Times also confirms a previously reported $100 million investment from Uber into Atoms.
While sources clarify that robotaxis do not encompass the entirety of Atoms’ plans, this strategic direction aligns with Kalanick’s characterization of the company’s recent $1.7 billion funding round as “unfinished business.” This focus on autonomous vehicles is further supported by Atoms’ acquisition of Pronto, an autonomous mining startup led by Anthony Levandowski, Uber’s former self-driving chief who was convicted of stealing trade secrets and later pardoned by former President Donald Trump.