The autonomous trucking industry in the US primarily focuses on the development and deployment of self-driving trucks that enhance logistics efficiency. Companies range from technology startups creating advanced driver-assistance systems to larger manufacturers integrating automation into traditional trucking. This industry signifies a shift towards safer, more sustainable transportation solutions, with significant investments directed at improving road safety, optimizing delivery speeds, and reducing operational costs. As regulatory frameworks evolve, the future indicates a burgeoning market ripe for innovation. Indeed, by 2030, the US could see a substantial increase in the adoption of fully autonomous freight services, reshaping the supply chain.

The following investors represent a blend of venture capital firms drawn to the autonomous trucking space. Based in cities across the US, from New York to San Francisco, these firms range significantly in size and experience. Some, like Intel Capital founded in 1991, possess decade-spanning expertise, while newer entrants like Deep Tech Fund have emerged since 2023. In 2024, these investors were notably active, executing deals numbering up to 802, showcasing an increasing belief in the future of autonomous transportation.

Top 16 Autonomous Trucking Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, having successfully launched over 4,000 startups. Among its notable investments in the autonomous trucking sector is Embark Trucks, where Y Combinator participated in several funding rounds, including a $2.1 million seed round in 2016, a $15 million Series A in 2017, a $30 million Series B in 2018, and a $70 million Series C in 2019. These investments highlight Y Combinator's commitment to fostering innovation in the autonomous trucking industry, alongside its broader portfolio of technology startups.

2. Plug and Play Tech Center

• Website: plugandplaytechcenter.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 253
• LinkedIn: plug-and-play-tech-center

Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2024, they have made 253 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, Plug and Play has invested in companies like Einride, which is developing autonomous trucks, participating in multiple funding rounds including a Series B round that raised $110 million in 2021. They also invested in AutoX, a self-driving vehicle company, which closed a $100 million Series A funding round with their participation. These transactions highlight Plug and Play's engagement in the autonomous trucking and self-driving vehicle sectors, reinforcing their position as a relevant investor in this field.

3. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. The fund is part of Alumni Ventures, which connects accredited investors and institutions with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. With a network of over 10,000 investors, Deep Tech Fund focuses on diversified venture portfolios. Notably, they have invested in companies relevant to the autonomous trucking industry, including Gatik, which raised $25 million in a Series A funding round to expand its operations in autonomous middle-mile logistics, and Phantom Auto, which raised $42 million in a Series B round for its remote vehicle operation technology. These transactions highlight the fund's commitment to investing in innovative technologies that support the future of transportation.

4. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing not only funding but also mentorship and resources to help founders scale their businesses. In recent years, 500 Global has participated in several funding rounds for companies in the autonomous technology space, including Drover AI, which focuses on AI-driven solutions for transportation. They also invested in MightyFly, a company developing eVTOL aircraft, which, while not directly related to trucking, indicates their interest in innovative transportation solutions. Their active involvement in these sectors showcases their commitment to supporting advancements in technology that could intersect with autonomous trucking.

5. Qualcomm Ventures

• Website: qualcommventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn: qualcomm-ventures

Qualcomm Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Diego, California, founded in 2000. They specialize in investing in early to growth stage technology companies, particularly within the wireless ecosystem. Qualcomm Ventures provides capital and strategic support to startups across various sectors, including automotive, digital health, and IoT. Notably, they have made significant investments in the autonomous driving sector, including a $157 million investment in Haomo.AI, a Chinese autonomous driving startup, and a convertible note investment in Cruise, a prominent player in the autonomous vehicle market. Additionally, they have invested in Zongmu Technology, which develops advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous parking solutions. Most recently, they participated in a $27 million Series C funding round for Third Wave Automation, a company focused on automation technologies that could be relevant to the trucking industry. These transactions highlight Qualcomm Ventures' commitment to supporting innovation in the autonomous driving space.

6. Tiger Global

• Website: tigerglobal.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology. Tiger Global's investment strategy includes backing companies that are pioneering advancements in various sectors, including autonomous vehicles. Notably, they have invested in Nuro, which specializes in autonomous delivery vehicles, and Waymo, a leader in self-driving technology. Additionally, they have supported Embark Trucks, a company focused on autonomous trucking solutions. These transactions highlight Tiger Global's commitment to investing in the future of transportation and technology.

7. Intel Capital

• Website: intelcapital.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 23
• LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has invested in several companies relevant to the autonomous trucking industry, including Peloton Technology, which is developing a commercial two-truck driver-assistive platooning system, and ZMP, a Tokyo-based company focused on autonomous driving technologies. Additionally, their investment in Perrone Robotics highlights their commitment to advancing robotics software that can be applied in autonomous vehicle systems. These transactions illustrate Intel Capital's strategic interest in the autonomous trucking space, making them a significant player in this sector.

8. FJ Labs

• Website: fjlabs.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 169
• LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has made over 1,000 investments, many of which have achieved unicorn status. FJ Labs focuses on providing capital and strategic guidance to startups across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Notably, they have invested in companies relevant to the autonomous trucking sector, such as Haul, which raised $10 million to connect commercial truck drivers with gigs, and Lori Systems, which raised $6.2 million to enhance logistics operations. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for Cargomatic, a logistics platform, further demonstrating their engagement in the transportation industry.

9. Liquid 2 Ventures

• Website: liquid2.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 91
• LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has invested in several companies relevant to the autonomous trucking industry, including Applied Intuition, which focuses on simulation and software tools for autonomous vehicles, and Polymath Robotics, which develops robotics solutions that can be applied in various transportation contexts. Other relevant investments include Natilus, which is working on autonomous cargo aircraft, and Zendar, which develops radar technology for autonomous systems. These transactions highlight Liquid 2 Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative technologies that are crucial for the advancement of autonomous transportation.

10. Sosv

• Website: sosv.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 170
• LinkedIn: sosv

Sosv is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, based in the United States, that specializes in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a focus on sectors such as health and climate technology, Sosv operates globally, connecting innovative companies with investors. Notably, Sosv has participated in funding rounds for Youibot, a Chinese producer of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), which raised significant amounts in various funding rounds, including a Series B round where they raised over $47 million. This involvement highlights Sosv's engagement in the autonomous technology space, particularly in robotics, which is closely related to autonomous trucking.

11. Gaingels

• Website: gaingels.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 60
• LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. Gaingels has been involved in various transactions, including significant investments in Spartan Radar, which raised $17 million in Series B funding and $10 million in a Seed Round, both of which are relevant to the autonomous trucking industry due to their focus on radar technology essential for autonomous vehicles. Additionally, Gaingels invested in NEXT Trucking, a company that operates within the logistics and transportation sector, further demonstrating their engagement in areas related to autonomous trucking. Their commitment to enhancing board diversity through scholarship programs and advisory services complements their investment strategy, making them a unique player in the venture capital landscape.

12. Silicon Valley Bank

• Website: svb.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 31
• LinkedIn: silicon-valley-bank

Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) is a commercial bank founded in 1983, specializing in providing financial services to the innovation economy, particularly tech startups and venture capital firms. With a focus on helping clients navigate financial challenges and support their growth, SVB offers a range of products including business banking, global payments, and asset management. In the context of autonomous trucking, SVB has made significant investments in relevant companies. For instance, they participated in a $30 million Series B funding round for OTTO Motors, a company focused on autonomous vehicle technology. Additionally, SVB provided $65 million in financing to Netradyne, a startup that enhances driver and fleet safety, which is crucial for the successful integration of autonomous vehicles. They also supported Trucker Path with $30 million in debt financing, a platform that aids trucking logistics. Furthermore, SVB's investment in Coco, a teleoperated robot delivery service, highlights their interest in innovative transportation solutions. These transactions demonstrate SVB's active role in the autonomous trucking sector and its commitment to fostering advancements in this field.

13. Trucks Venture Capital

• Website: trucks.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: trucks-vc

Trucks Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in funding innovative startups within the transportation sector, with a mission to create safer, more accessible, and decarbonized transportation solutions. They have been involved in several significant transactions in the autonomous trucking context, including a Series B investment of $85 million in Gatik, a company focused on autonomous delivery vehicles, and a seed funding round for Faction, which is developing driverless technology for delivery. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting early-stage companies that are pioneering advancements in autonomous transportation, making them a key player in this evolving industry.

14. Fontinalis Partners

• Website: fontinalis.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: fontinalis-partners-llc

Fontinalis Partners is a venture capital firm based in Detroit, Michigan, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage investments focused on mobility, industrial innovation, and sustainability. Fontinalis provides not only financial support but also strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of launching and scaling their businesses. Notably, Fontinalis has invested in several key players in the autonomous trucking space, including Gatik, which focuses on autonomous delivery vehicles, and Ike, a self-driving trucking company. Their involvement in these companies' funding rounds, such as Gatik's Series A and Ike's Series A, highlights their commitment to advancing technology in the mobility sector, particularly in autonomous trucking.

15. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in technology and healthcare. NEA partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. In the context of autonomous trucking, NEA has made significant investments in Outrider, a U.S. self-driving truck firm. They participated in several funding rounds for Outrider, including a Seed Round, Series A, Series B, Series C, and most recently, a Series D round, totaling over $191 million raised by Outrider. This consistent investment in a company dedicated to developing autonomous yard trucks highlights NEA's active role in the autonomous trucking industry.

16. Soma Capital

• Website: somacap.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 41
• LinkedIn: soma-capital

Soma Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across diverse sectors, including technology and finance, and is dedicated to supporting innovative entrepreneurs and teams. With a portfolio that boasts over 20 unicorns, Soma Capital provides not only capital but also resources to help startups scale and succeed. Notably, they have made significant investments in the autonomous trucking sector, including a seed round investment in Embark Trucks, which raised $2.1 million in 2016, and a seed funding round for Faction Technology, which focuses on deploying driverless delivery solutions with 3-wheeled EVs. These transactions highlight Soma Capital's commitment to advancing technology in the autonomous trucking space.

Autonomous Trucking Insights: Key Investors in the US

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Y Combinator	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2005	802
Plug and Play Tech Center	Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2006	253
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)	Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	2023	258
500 Global	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2010	98
Qualcomm Ventures	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	10001+	2000	18
Tiger Global	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2001	25
Intel Capital	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1991	23
FJ Labs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	169
Liquid 2 Ventures	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2015	91
Sosv	United States (USA)	51-200	1995	170
Gaingels	Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	60
Silicon Valley Bank	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1983	31
Trucks Venture Capital	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2015	7
Fontinalis Partners	Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)	1-10	2009	7
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1977	57
Soma Capital	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	41

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