New AI models are helping autonomous-vehicle startups get started with less than $1 million in funding, while established players pursue much larger bets.
Trucks VC received pitches from 81 startups in 2026; Bedrock Robotics raised $600 million, and Waymo and Toyota announced a bZ4X partnership.
The story maps the changing landscape around autonomous-vehicle development and investment.
Major investments and collaborations
The industry is recording significant financial moves and partnerships between big names:
- Bedrock Robotics: The company raised $600 million, reaching a stock market valuation of $4,1 billion.
- Waymo and Toyota: The two companies announced a partnership to produce autonomous vehicles based on the bZ4X model. These vehicles are set to serve markets in Japan, the United Kingdom and other countries.
- Kodiak AI: The company will supply 75 autonomous trucks to DTL Transport, with deliveries starting in 2028.
- Rivian and Volkswagen: The two groups are expanding their collaboration to integrate artificial intelligence assistants into their vehicles.
- Other investments: Re:Build raised $2,1 billion to expand its manufacturing operations, while PreScalar raised $7 million to develop factory software. Additionally, DoorDash agreed to acquire Instacart for $17 billion.
Privacy issues for General Motors
In court, General Motors reached a $220 million settlement with 36 U.S. states. The company was accused of illegally selling data about its customers' location and driving habits to third parties.
>Stay connected with Hacks.gr
Set us as a preferred source on Google and find us on social media.
Preferred source
↗
end of article
Top comments (0)