Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi Resigns From Aurora's Board of Directors

Dara Khosrowshahi Resigns from Aurora Innovation Board

By Rebecca Bellan, Senior Reporter, Transportation

In a recent regulatory filing, Dara Khosrowshahi, the CEO of Uber, announced his resignation from the board of autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation. This move comes as no surprise, given Khosrowshahi’s increasing responsibilities at Uber and his desire to reduce external commitments.

Background on the Relationship between Uber and Aurora

The relationship between Uber and Aurora dates back to 2020, when Uber offloaded its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora. As part of this deal, Uber handed over its equity in ATG and invested $400 million into Aurora, giving it a 26% stake in the combined company. Khosrowshahi joined Aurora’s board as part of the agreement.

Despite the significant investment, Uber maintained its connection with Aurora through its freight brokerage platform, Uber Freight. In June, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Aurora’s technology on the Uber Freight network. However, it’s 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 had previously served as chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.

Khosrowshahi’s Decision to Leave the Board

Khosrowshahi’s decision to leave the board comes on the heels of another executive departure from Aurora. Nolan Shenai, the company’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.

Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis, has been appointed to join Aurora’s board in Khosrowshahi’s place. Bhatt brings a background in working for the Federal Highway Administration, which could be beneficial for Aurora as it navigates the complex regulatory landscape surrounding autonomous vehicles.

Implications of Khosrowshahi’s Resignation

Khosrowshahi’s resignation from the board may not have significant implications for Aurora’s day-to-day operations. However, his departure does highlight the increasing demands on executive leadership at companies like Uber and Aurora. As these companies continue to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles, they must ensure that their boards are comprised of individuals with the necessary expertise and experience.

Aurora’s Future Plans

Despite the recent departures, Aurora appears to be moving forward with its plans for autonomous trucking. The company has been working towards deploying its Level 4 autonomous trucks on public roads, a goal that will require significant investment and regulatory approval. With Khosrowshahi’s resignation, it remains to be seen how Aurora will address the challenges ahead.

What’s Next?

As the autonomous vehicle industry continues to evolve, companies like Uber and Aurora must adapt quickly to changing circumstances. The departure of key executives may signal a shift in strategy or a re-evaluation of priorities. One thing is certain: the future of transportation will be shaped by innovation and technological advancements.

Table of Contents

Aurora Innovation’s History and Timeline

2020: Uber offloads its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora.
2022: Uber and Aurora announce a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Aurora’s technology on the Uber Freight network.
June 2024: Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, shares his intention to step down effective January 6, 2025.

Key Players in the Autonomous Vehicle Industry

Dara Khosrowshahi: CEO of Uber and former member of Aurora’s board
Raquel Urtasun: Founder of Waabi and former chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG
Ossa Fisher: President of Aurora
Shailen Bhatt: Senior vice president and chief operating officer for AtkinsRéalis and new member of Aurora’s board

Timeline of Events Leading Up to Khosrowshahi’s Resignation

2020: Uber offloads its self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora.
2022: Uber and Aurora announce a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Aurora’s technology on the Uber Freight network.
June 2024: Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, shares his intention to step down effective January 6, 2025.
[Date]: Dara Khosrowshahi resigns from the board of Aurora Innovation.

Aurora Innovation and Its Partnerships

Uber Freight: a freight brokerage platform that connects shippers and carriers
Waabi: a self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun
AtkinsRéalis: a consulting firm with experience in transportation infrastructure development