TechCrunch Mobility: Uber Freight’s AI bet, Tesla’s robotaxi caveat, and Nikola’s trucks hit the auction block | TechCrunch
May 23, 2025 - techcrunch.com
The TechCrunch Mobility newsletter covers various updates in the transportation sector, highlighting significant developments and deals. Luminar, a lidar startup, is seeking capital through a deal with Yorkville Advisors Global, potentially raising $200 million via convertible preferred stock. SparkCharge raised $15.5 million in a Series A-1 round for its "charging-as-a-service" model, while Sylndr, an online used car sales startup, secured $15.7 million in funding. Nikola's hydrogen trucks, valued at $114 million, are up for auction following the company's bankruptcy filing. The newsletter also discusses notable changes in autonomous vehicle companies, such as Aurora's use of human "observers" in self-driving trucks and leadership changes at Einride and Reliable Robotics.
In other updates, Waymo is expanding its robotaxi service in California and Atlanta, while Tesla plans to geofence its robotaxi operations in Austin, Texas. The electric vehicle sector sees Arc unveiling a new electric boat, and Senate Republicans voting to overturn California's stricter air pollution standards. Uber is launching a B2B logistics service in India and expanding AI features in its Uber Freight division. The newsletter concludes with a review of the Heybike Alpha, an all-terrain e-bike praised for its motor and battery but critiqued for assembly challenges and app functionality.
Key takeaways:
AAA projects 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day holiday period, with 39.4 million using a car.
Luminar is seeking capital through a deal with Yorkville Advisors Global, potentially bringing in $200 million via convertible preferred stock.
Waymo and Uber plan to offer robotaxi rides in Atlanta, while Tesla plans to limit its robotaxi operations in Austin to specific areas deemed "the safest."
Uber Freight launched a suite of AI features for shippers, expanding its Insights AI and introducing over 30 AI agents for logistics tasks.
