Atoms, the technology company founded by former Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick, is reportedly preparing to expand into the autonomous vehicle industry, including the development of robotaxi technology. The company recently secured $1.7 billion in funding led by Andreessen Horowitz, although Kalanick has remained relatively quiet about the startup’s long term ambitions.

According to reports, Atoms is preparing for an aggressive hiring campaign and potential acquisitions as it seeks to establish itself as a major player in autonomous transportation. The company has reportedly held discussions with Uber about how its robotaxi technology could potentially be integrated into the ride hailing company’s operations. Uber has already established partnerships with several autonomous vehicle companies as it explores the future of driverless transportation.

Uber has also invested approximately $100 million in Atoms, adding to the growing connection between the two companies. However, sources familiar with Atoms’ plans reportedly emphasized that robotaxis represent only one part of the startup’s broader strategy. Kalanick has previously described the company’s ambitions as unfinished business, suggesting that Atoms could pursue several opportunities across autonomous technology.

Atoms has strengthened its autonomous vehicle capabilities through the acquisition of Pronto, an autonomous mining technology company previously led by Anthony Levandowski, who formerly headed Uber’s self driving programme. The acquisition, combined with its substantial new funding, could give Atoms significant resources to expand its operations and compete in the rapidly developing autonomous vehicle market.

Source: Techcrunch