TechCrunch Mobility: Uber everywhere, all at once

In a significant move within the autonomous vehicle sector, Uber has announced its latest partnership with Rivian, marking a bold step towards the company's future in self-driving technology. With the ride-hailing giant having previously divested its in-house autonomous vehicle development unit, Uber ATG, in 2020, it has since shifted its focus towards enhancing its core services in delivery and ride-hailing. Despite this strategic pivot, Uber has not completely abandoned the pursuit of autonomous vehicles. Over the last two years, the company has actively secured partnerships with numerous technology firms specializing in autonomous vehicles, drones, trucking, and robotaxis. This expansive approach has even led to collaborations with Chinese companies aiming to introduce robotaxis in Europe and the Middle East. The partnership with Rivian is particularly noteworthy: Uber is set to invest an initial $300 million in Rivian, with plans to purchase 10,000 fully autonomous R2 robotaxis, slated for deployment in San Francisco and Miami by 2028. Additionally, Uber retains the option to acquire up to 40,000 more of these vehicles beginning in 2030, with the fleet made available exclusively on its platform. While the overall deal may reach a staggering $1.25 billion, the initial financial commitment is modest compared to the potential risks involved, which appear to favor Rivian. Notably, this venture is distinct as it positions Uber as both the developer of the self-driving technology and the vehicle manufacturer. Rivian, however, faces its own challenges. The company has yet to begin production of the R2 SUV or test the self-driving systems intended for these robotaxis. Moreover, the manufacturing of the R2 is to take place at Rivian's Georgia factory, which is still under construction, and the company has adjusted its profitability expectations, now aiming for 2028 instead of 2027 due to heavy investments in autonomous technology. Insider sources suggest that discussions between Uber and Rivian regarding this deal have been ongoing for some time, indicating a strategic foresight from both companies. Meanwhile, Uber continues to explore its own expansion in the tech landscape, paralleling efforts from companies like Nvidia, which is also establishing partnerships in the automotive sector to promote its autonomous vehicle development platform. In addition to these developments, other notable events include Advanced Navigation's successful $110 million funding for its navigation systems, and Amazon's acquisition of the autonomous robotics startup Rivr. Furthermore, a cyberattack has disrupted operations for U.S. vehicle breathalyzer company Intoxalock, stranding drivers nationwide. As the automotive industry navigates through these innovations and challenges, the future of transportation remains a dynamic landscape.