Wayve Secures $1.2 Billion as AI Driving Tech Lures Industry Giants

In a major vote of confidence for its unique approach, British self-driving startup Wayve has raised $1.2 billion from a powerful consortium. Investors include tech heavyweights Microsoft, Nvidia, and Uber, alongside automakers Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, and Stellantis. The funding could grow by another $300 million from Uber as robotaxi deployments begin, starting in London. The deal values the seven-year-old company at $8.6 billion.

Wayve’s strategy stands apart in a crowded field. Instead of relying on pre-mapped routes or specific hardware, its software uses a deep learning system that learns to drive from data alone. This ‘embodied AI’ can adapt to different vehicle sensors and chips, a flexibility CEO Alex Kendall calls their ‘contrarian’ edge. “We were the first with end-to-end deep learning for autonomous driving,” Kendall told TechCrunch. “Now, we’re taking a contrarian business model approach, too.”

Unlike Tesla, which builds integrated cars and software, or Waymo, which operates its own robotaxi fleet, Wayve sells its AI as a product to other companies. Its technology powers two systems: an assisted-driving feature and a fully automated ‘eyes-off’ system for robotaxis or consumer cars.

The commercial partnerships are already concrete. Nissan will use the software to enhance driver-assistance systems in its vehicles from 2027. Uber plans commercial trials later this year, with CEO Dara Khosrowshahi noting plans for joint deployment in over ten global markets. Nvidia, a backer since 2018, supplies key computing hardware for Wayve’s latest platform.

The funding round was led by Eclipse, Balderton, and SoftBank Vision Fund 2, with new institutional investors also joining. The substantial capital infusion signals a pivotal moment as the industry shifts from technological experimentation to the complex game of commercial rollout.