Uber’s CEO Resigns from Self-Driving Truck Startup Aurora’s Board

Dara Khosrowshahi Resigns from Aurora Innovation Board

Departure from the Board Cites Desire to Focus on Uber Responsibilities and Reduce External Commitments

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, has resigned from the board of autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation. According to a recent regulatory filing, Khosrowshahi’s resignation was effective as of Tuesday. The decision comes after several years of involvement with Aurora.

Background and Relationship with Aurora

Khosrowshahi’s connection with Aurora dates back to 2020 when Uber offloaded its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to the company. As part of the deal, Uber invested $400 million into Aurora and acquired a 26% stake in the combined entity. Khosrowshahi joined Aurora’s board as a result of this partnership.

Through Uber Freight, the ride-hailing giant maintained its connection with Aurora even after the sale of ATG. In June 2022, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to integrate trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network. Notably, this relationship is not exclusive, as Uber also has an agreement with Waabi, another self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun.

New Addition to the Board

Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis, will replace Khosrowshahi on Aurora’s board. Bhatt brings a background in working for the Federal Highway Administration, adding a unique perspective to the company’s decision-making process.

Recent Executive Departure at Aurora

Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, had announced his intention to step down effective January 6, 2025. In response, Ossa Fisher, the president of Aurora, will assume Shenai’s responsibilities while the company considers a replacement for its outgoing general counsel.

Impact and Implications

Khosrowshahi’s resignation from the board comes at a critical time for both Uber and Aurora. The partnership between the two companies has been significant in advancing the development of autonomous vehicles.

As Khosrowshahi focuses on his responsibilities as CEO of Uber, it remains to be seen how this change will affect the future of their collaboration with Aurora. Additionally, the departure of Shenai from the company’s leadership team may have further implications for Aurora’s growth and direction.

Timeline of Events

• 2020: Uber offloads its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora.
• 2022: Uber and Aurora announce a multi-year collaboration for integrating trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network.
• June 2022: Khosrowshahi resigns from Aurora’s board.

Conclusion

Dara Khosrowshahi’s resignation from the board of Aurora Innovation marks a significant change in the company’s leadership and direction. As both companies continue to navigate the complex landscape of autonomous vehicles, it will be interesting to see how their partnership evolves in the coming months and years.