Dara Khosrowshahi Leaves Aurora’s Board Amid Ongoing Responsibilities as Uber CEO
In a regulatory filing made public on Friday, it was announced that Dara Khosrowshahi has resigned from the board of autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation. The move comes as Khosrowshahi seeks to focus on his ongoing responsibilities as the CEO of ride-hailing giant Uber and reduce external board commitments.
Effective Date of Resignation
Khosrowshahi’s resignation was effective as of Tuesday, according to the filing. Despite his departure from the board, Aurora asserts that Khosrowshahi’s decision was not driven by any disagreements with the company.
Background on Aurora-Uber Relationship
The relationship between Uber and Aurora dates back to 2020, when Uber offloaded its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora in a deal worth $400 million. As part of the agreement, Uber invested in Aurora and acquired a 26% stake in the combined company. Khosrowshahi joined Aurora’s board as a result of this deal.
Through Uber Freight, Uber’s freight brokerage platform that connects shippers and carriers, the ride-hailing giant has maintained its connection with Aurora. In June, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to integrate trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network. However, it is worth noting that Uber’s relationship with Aurora is not exclusive; the company also has a deal with Waabi, a self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, who previously served as chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.
Shailen Bhatt to Join Aurora’s Board
In place of Khosrowshahi, Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis, will join Aurora’s board. Bhatt has a background working for the Federal Highway Administration, which is likely to be an asset in his new role.
Recent Executive Departures at Aurora
Khosrowshahi’s decision to leave the board comes on the heels of another executive departure at Aurora. Nolan Shenai, the company’s general counsel, announced 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.
Related Developments
- In June, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to integrate trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network.
- Waabi, a self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, is another partner of Uber in the autonomous vehicle space.
Takeaways
Dara Khosrowshahi’s resignation from the board of Aurora Innovation marks a significant development in the company’s history. While his decision to leave was not driven by any disagreements with Aurora, it highlights the ongoing responsibilities he faces as CEO of Uber. As the transportation industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more developments in the relationship between Uber and Aurora.
Additional Reading
- Transportation: Tesla to split $100M award for electric truck charging corridor in Illinois
- Aurora Innovation: Accel doubles down on Sarla Aviation’s ambition to develop electric air taxis in India
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Topics Covered
Aurora Innovation Startups Transportation Uber uber freight
