Perplexity AI Waabi Raises $1B from Uber and VCs
Jan 28, 2026
A deep dive into a $1B autonomous driving raise and a major partnership with a ride platform. Discussion of moving from trucking to robo-taxis and what that expansion means. Exploration of an AI-first, simulation-based training system that creates digital twins and edge cases. Conversation about generalizing across vehicle types, capital efficiency, and OEM integration plans.
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$1B Round Signals Rapid Expansion
- Waabi raised $1B including $250M from Uber to deploy robo-taxis and expand beyond trucking.
- The Uber deal targets deployment of 25,000+ Waabi-powered robo-taxis exclusively on Uber's platform.
One Stack For Multiple Vehicle Types
- Waabi claims a single generalized AI stack can operate across vehicle types, avoiding separate stacks for trucks and cars.
- The approach aims to scale autonomy vertically with less duplication and overhead than legacy players.
Founder’s Full-Circle Journey With Uber
- Raquel Ertsson previously served as chief scientist at Uber's autonomous vehicle division before founding Waabi.
- Uber later sold ATG and now invested $250M back into Ertsson's startup, closing a full-circle moment.