Dara Khosrowshahi Steps Down from Aurora’s Board of Directors
Dara Khosrowshi, the CEO of Uber, has resigned from the board of directors at autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation. According to a recent regulatory filing, Khosrowshahi cited his desire to focus on his ongoing responsibilities as CEO of Uber and reduce external board commitments.
Effective Date of Resignation
Khosrowshahi’s resignation was effective as of Tuesday, according to the filing. This move comes after nearly three years of service on Aurora’s board, which he joined in 2020 as part of a significant deal between Uber and Aurora.
Background on Uber and Aurora Partnership
The partnership between Uber and Aurora dates back to 2020 when Uber offloaded its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora. As part of the deal, Uber handed over its equity in ATG and invested $400 million into Aurora, giving it a 26% stake in the combined company.
Collaboration on Trucking Technology
Through Uber Freight, Uber’s freight brokerage platform that connects shippers and carriers, the ride-hail and delivery giant maintained its connection with Aurora. In June of this year, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Aurora’s technology on the Uber Freight network.
Not Exclusivity with Aurora
Uber’s relationship with Aurora is not exclusive. The company also has a deal with Waabi, the self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, who had previously served as chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.
Shailen Bhatt Joins Aurora Board
Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis, will join Aurora’s board in Khosrowshahi’s place. Bhatt has a background working for the Federal Highway Administration.
Recent Executive Departure at Aurora
Khosrowshahi’s decision to leave the board comes a couple of weeks after Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, shared his intention to step down effective January 6, 2025. Ossa Fisher, Aurora’s president, will take over Shenai’s responsibilities while the company considers his replacement.
Update on Board and Executive Changes
This article has been updated to include information about Aurora’s new board member and another recent executive departure.
Topics
- Aurora Innovation
- Startups
- Transportation
- Uber
- Uber Freight
About the Author
Rebecca Bellan is a senior reporter at TechCrunch, covering transportation. She has previously covered social media for Forbes.com and her work has appeared in various publications.
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