Atoms sec $100 million from Uber to build autonomous driving tech

Uber has invested $100 million in Atoms, the artificial intelligence startup founded by former chief executive Travis Kalanick. This investment supports Atoms' development of autonomous-driving technology intended for potential use on Uber's ride-hailing network. The funding occurs as part of a larger $1.7 billion equity financing round announced in July, led by Andreessen Horowitz with Ben Horowitz joining the board.

Atoms has discussed deployment strategies with Uber, focusing on supplying technology to partners with existing vehicle fleets rather than operating its own robotaxi service. The startup recently acquired Pronto, an autonomous-haulage company founded by Anthony Levandowski, which now serves as the core technology operation for Atoms Mining. Kalanick describes Atoms as a physical or industrial AI business covering transport, mining, and food sectors.

Separately, The Boring Company secured $3 billion in a Series D funding round led by the United Arab Emirates and affiliated investment entities. This capital lift brings the company's valuation to $23 billion, representing a fourfold increase from its $5.675 billion valuation following a 2022 round.

The new capital will fund an expanded partnership to develop more than 150 kilometres of underground infrastructure across the UAE and hire staff for expansion in the United States and Dubai. Partners included Human Capital, Vy Capital, Sequoia Capital, and others like Temasek and Shamal Holding. Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority signed a strategic partnership agreement with The Boring Company in February to begin implementing the Dubai Loop passenger transport project.