Kalanick’s Atoms Prepares Robotaxi Push With Uber in Talks

Atoms, the startup founded by Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick, is preparing for a major expansion in autonomous driving, including a hiring spree and acquisitions that would position it as a significant player in the robotaxi industry. The company has also held discussions with Uber about integrating its self-driving technology into the ride-hailing platform.

The moves follow a $1.7 billion funding round announced earlier this summer, led by Andreessen Horowitz. Kalanick has said Atoms represents a chance to complete “unfinished business,” while offering few details about the venture’s specific focus.

Uber has already invested $100 million in Atoms. The ride-hailing company maintains partnerships with a long list of autonomous vehicle developers, and adding Atoms to that group would extend its access to robotaxi technology.

Atoms’ expansion plans line up with its acquisition of Pronto, an autonomous mining startup led by Anthony Levandowski, the former head of Uber’s self-driving unit. Levandowski was convicted of stealing trade secrets and sentenced to 18 months in prison before being pardoned by President Donald Trump.

Robotaxis are not expected to be Atoms’ sole business, but the push into autonomous mobility aligns with Kalanick’s description of the venture as a way to complete unfinished business.