Lior Ron, the co-founder and CEO of Uber Freight, is set to join Toronto-based Waabi as COO, guiding the company in deploying its AI-driven self-driving trucks without human drivers by year-end. Ron will shape Waabi’s market strategy and enhance industry partnerships. “Waabi is ready for prime time,” Ron stated. Waabi aims for fully autonomous trucks in Texas by year-end, a project Ron will lead. Ron will remain as chairman at Uber Freight while working from Waabi’s San Francisco office and frequently visiting Toronto.
Previously, Ron founded self-driving tech company Otto, later acquired by Uber, where he oversaw Uber Freight. Despite leaving in 2018 due to legal issues, Ron returned in the same year. Waabi’s executive team now includes two ex-Uber leaders. CEO Raquel Urtasun, a former Uber chief scientist, launched Waabi post-Uber ATG’s sale. The startup has attracted significant funding, including a $275-million Series B co-led by Uber and Khosla Ventures. Waabi has partnered with Uber Freight, integrating Waabi Driver with Uber’s logistics solutions. Waabi’s trucks currently operate between Dallas and Houston, and further expansion is planned.
Waabi develops an AI system to power autonomous trucks, boasting a high safety standard. The company released a mixed reality testing platform, enabling its AI to navigate varied traffic scenarios. With Volvo, Waabi aims to scale its self-driving truck solutions. Urtasun notes US regulatory support contrasts with Canada’s, advocating for Canadian regulatory advancements at Toronto Tech Week.