Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has stepped down from Aurora Innovation’s board of directors to concentrate on his primary role at Uber Technologies, according to recent regulatory filings. The departure, which took effect earlier this week, comes amid ongoing partnerships between the two technology companies in the autonomous trucking sector.
Aurora Innovation, a leading autonomous vehicle technology company, confirmed that Khosrowshahi’s exit was amicable and unrelated to any disagreements. The move marks a significant shift in the leadership structure that began with Uber’s strategic investment in Aurora back in 2020, when Uber transferred its self-driving division, Uber ATG, to Aurora in a $400 million deal that secured Uber a 26% ownership stake.
Despite this board change, the strategic partnership between Aurora and Uber remains strong, particularly through Uber Freight. The companies recently launched a multi-year collaboration to integrate Aurora-powered autonomous trucks into Uber’s freight network. However, Uber maintains a diverse approach to autonomous technology, also partnering with Waabi, a self-driving truck startup led by former Uber ATG chief scientist Raquel Urtasun.
Taking Khosrowshahi’s place on the board is Shailen Bhatt, who brings valuable transportation expertise from his experience as senior vice president and chief operating officer at AtkinsRéalis and his previous role with the Federal Highway Administration.
The leadership transitions at Aurora continue with the upcoming departure of General Counsel Nolan Shenai in January 2025. Aurora’s President Ossa Fisher will temporarily oversee legal responsibilities while the company searches for Shenai’s successor.