Waabi has raised $282 million to date and aims to remain independent, with plans to expand beyond trucking into areas like robotaxis and warehouse robotics. The company contrasts its approach with competitors like Kodiak Robotics, which is not tied to a single manufacturer, and Aurora, which plans a driverless launch by April. Urtasun believes 2025 will be pivotal for the trucking industry, with potential for further consolidation as other players like Embark and TuSimple have exited the market. Waabi's strategy focuses on integrating its technology at the factory level without disrupting OEM assembly lines, aiming for a safe and reliable product.
Key takeaways:
- Waabi is partnering with Volvo Autonomous Solutions to develop and deploy autonomous trucks, with plans for commercial pilots in Texas and a driverless demonstration by the end of 2025.
- Waabi's approach focuses on integrating its technology at the factory level, aiming for a more efficient and capital-efficient path to market compared to competitors.
- Volvo has invested in Waabi and will build trucks for the startup at its Virginia facility, with the first units expected in 2025 and volume scaling in two to three years.
- Waabi has raised $282 million and plans to remain independent, with ambitions beyond trucking, including robotaxis and warehouse robotics.