Pronto.ai, a San Francisco-based startup developing self-driving systems for haulage trucks and off-road vehicles, has acquired its competitor SafeAI. This acquisition is set to enhance Pronto’s capabilities in the autonomous vehicle market, particularly in construction and mining applications.
Acquisition Details
Pronto CEO Anthony Levandowski confirmed the acquisition, calling it a move to boost both talent and technology. SafeAI, which was founded in 2017, brings a 12-person engineering team and valuable intellectual property to Pronto. While financial terms were not disclosed, sources indicate the acquisition was valued in the “millions.”
- Strategic Importance: The acquisition allows Pronto to grow its team and resources, enabling the startup to scale more quickly and compete more effectively with SafeAI, which has taken a slightly different approach to autonomous haulage.
Expanding Pronto’s Autonomous Systems
Founded in 2018, Pronto uses advanced sensors and AI to operate haulage trucks autonomously. The company also relies on its Pollen Mobile technology, a peer-to-peer data network that allows high-speed data exchange in areas with limited connectivity.
- International Growth: With the acquisition of SafeAI, Pronto can better serve customers globally, including its partnership with Heidelberg Materials North America. The company is expanding its autonomous truck fleet, including a project in Brazil to deploy over 100 autonomous trucks.
Merging Technologies and Safety Standards
SafeAI is known for its multi-sensor approach, using cameras, radar, and lidar to power its autonomous vehicles. Pronto, which has focused on a camera-only system, plans to integrate SafeAI’s technology into its product offerings. Additionally, Pronto will adopt SafeAI’s safety framework, which has achieved ASIL D certification—the highest safety level in the industry.
- Tech Portfolio Expansion: This integration will allow Pronto to offer a more diverse range of solutions, catering to small quarries and large mines with varying needs for autonomous systems.
