TechCrunch Mobility: Overcoming Hurdles in Robotaxi Development

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After a short hiatus, I’m back—what’s happening in the world of mobility? There’s a lot to explore, especially following the recent end of the Uber-Waymo collaboration in Phoenix. As both companies push their robotaxi plans in cities like Atlanta and Austin, the question has changed from whether this partnership would conclude to when it would. I’m excited to see how they manage this next chapter.

Tensions are rising as some Uber executives have quietly voiced their concerns about Waymo. We can expect these worries to grow as the partnership comes to a close. Monitoring regulatory shifts will be essential as robotaxi services strive to capture market share.

This week, federal authorities unveiled crucial updates regarding autonomous vehicles. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Administrator Jonathan Morrison emphasized that it is unacceptable for autonomous vehicle developers to impede emergency services or law enforcement.

He stated, “Inadequate responses during emergencies is a major flaw. Emergencies are not merely ‘edge cases.’ The NHTSA insists that all autonomous vehicle developers and operators prioritize this issue.”

While Morrison did not single out any specific robotaxi companies, his statements apply broadly to all AV developers under the DOT’s Standing General Order, with Waymo seeming to be a particular point of concern.

Previous reports from TechCrunch have highlighted the difficulties Waymo faces while operating the largest robotaxi fleet in the U.S. across cities such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco, especially regarding emergency services. Recently, San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood launched an inquiry into the effects of autonomous vehicles on public transportation and emergency services during Independence Day celebrations, which led to significant traffic disruptions. Reports indicated that several Waymo robotaxis had to be towed after losing power amidst the festivities.

Morrison’s remarks carry weight. But will they result in real changes for AV developers? Only time will reveal the outcome. The NHTSA has requested companies to submit their “solutions” by the end of the month.

Additionally, check out the updated 2026 Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda. This document outlines potential changes to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), which govern vehicle design and equipment requirements. These adjustments could benefit autonomous vehicle manufacturers like Tesla and Zoox, who are creating vehicles that forgo traditional steering wheels, pedals, and standard features.

A little bird

For comments or inquiries, feel free to reach out to Kirsten Korosec at kirsten.korosec@techcrunch.com, connect with me via Signal at kkorosec.07, or contact Sean O’Kane at sean.okane@techcrunch.com.

Deals!

This week, we turn our attention from traditional venture capital updates to spotlight Rivian, which has announced the issuance of 86.25 million Class A shares at $15.50 each, including an extra 11.25 million shares designated for underwriters.

In total, Rivian aims to raise $1.32 billion through this funding round, essential for the electric vehicle company that just commenced deliveries of its new R2 SUV last month, while revising sales expectations for 2026. The company now anticipates delivering between 65,000 and 70,000 vehicles, exceeding previous estimates thanks to robust demand for both the EDV and R1 models, in addition to the start of R2 deliveries.

The rationale for this fundraising remains unclear. Notably, Rivian has yet to achieve profitability, and increasing R2—or any vehicle—production involves considerable costs!

Additional notable deals …

Bidbus, a vehicle auction startup based in Los Angeles, has secured $15 million in a Series A funding round led by Ibex Investors, with support from Mucker Capital, FJ Labs, Motley Fool Ventures, Data Point Capital, Walter Ventures, and Yossi Levi, known as the Car Dealership Guy.

Lyft is gearing up to acquire the bike-sharing division of Spain’s Serveo. Although transaction details remain under wraps, Lyft aims to finalize the deal by year’s end.

TaiSan, a battery startup located in the UK, has successfully raised £4.65 million in a seed funding round co-led by Eos Advisory and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, with further backing from InnoEnergy, AFI Ventures, EverQuest Capital Partners, Exergon, Heartfelt Ventures, Adeline Arts & Science, Techmind, angel investor François Badelon, and matched funding from Innovate UK.

Notable reads and other tidbits

AssuranceAmerica, a U.S. insurance provider, has reported a data breach affecting 6.9 million individuals, compromising personal information and driver’s license numbers, marking it as the largest breach of driver’s license data in the U.S. this year.

Beta Technologies, recognized for its innovative electric aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, has successfully conducted flights under the new eVTOL Integration Pilot Program launched by the U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA, covering nearly 275 nautical miles across Virginia and Maryland.

Tesla enthusiasts might remember Elon Musk facing considerable challenges from various short-sellers regarding the company’s stock. Musk continues to elicit mixed reactions, and a new ETF creator has taken advantage of this sentiment by launching two anti-Elon exchange-traded funds.

GM’s Chevrolet has introduced a new electric truck made in the U.S. However, senior reporter Tim De Chant raises concerns about its disappointing sales figures.

Manna Aero, an Irish startup focused on autonomous drone deliveries, is broadening its U.S. presence with a new manufacturing facility and operations hub in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with plans to create 1,000 jobs in the upcoming years.

Slate Auto has teamed up with Crayola to offer vehicle wraps in five crayon-inspired colors for its electric truck and SUV models. (Note: The base Slate EV is constructed from gray composite material, allowing for customizable wraps with various options available.)

One more thing …

The TechCrunch podcast Build Mode has launched its third season, generating excitement! Hosted by Isabelle Johannessen, who leads TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield program, Build Mode is designed to support early-stage founders. Unlike the Equity podcast, co-hosted by Anthony Ha and Sean O’Kane, Build Mode focuses specifically on early-stage fundraising.

The new season begins with essential insights from Precursor Ventures founder and managing partner Charles Hudson, who offers critical advice for early-stage founders preparing for their initial institutional funding round.

Don’t miss it: New fundraising strategies featuring insights from Charles Hudson.