Amazon plans air cargo hub

Get off my lawn

Hi there,

The world’s oldest automaker has become a frequent sight in tech blog headlines of late, as Daimler turns to startups to stay abreast of rapid developments in mobility and auto tech.

This week’s tie-up with Uber, an agreement to deploy autonomous Mercedes vehicles on Uber’s network, was just the latest in a flurry of moves from Stuttgart. We analyzed Daimler’s activity since 2013 using CB Insights data:

The partnership is the first opening of a TNC’s platform to a major third-party OEM who will own and operate its autonomous vehicles (excluding GM and Lyft, whose relationship also involves a $500M investment).

The move is also yet another hedge in Daimler’s diverse mobility strategy, involving the company’s own moovel subsidiary, acquisitions and majority stakes (myTaxi, Hailo, Taxibeat), asset buys (FlightCar), and investments (Blacklane). Also covered is Daimler’s exploration of autonomous delivery drones, which we’ve touched on in the past.

Like Ford, Daimler’s investments thus have been accomplished without a distinct corporate venture unit, although this week’s news prove that establishing CVC arms is still top of mind for many OEMs (see below).

The official press releases solely referenced “cars”, but Uber’s buildout of its Freight service and Daimler’s development of autonomous trucks may pave the way for an expanded partnership down the road.

Have a great rest of the week.

Kerry
@kerrygwu