Nvidia Plans $500M Investment in Self-Driving Pioneer Wayve
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang visited the United Kingdom this week, pledging £2 billion ($2.6 billion) to strengthen the country’s AI startup ecosystem. Among the potential beneficiaries is Wayve, a U.K.-based self-driving technology company. Wayve confirmed it has signed a letter of intent with Nvidia to evaluate a $500 million strategic investment during its next funding round. This tentative commitment builds on Nvidia’s earlier participation in Wayve’s $1.05 billion Series C round, which closed in May 2024.
Nvidia stated the broader pledge would include funds from venture-capital firms such as Accel, Air Street Capital, Balderton, Hoxton Ventures, and Phoenix Court. However, the company declined to comment specifically on the Wayve letter of intent. Meanwhile, Wayve’s leadership noted that preparations for the Series D round are moving forward quickly, though no closing date has been disclosed.
Wayve’s Distinctive Approach to Autonomy
Founded in 2017, Wayve has gained recognition for its unique self-driving software. Unlike rule-based systems, Wayve’s end-to-end neural network learns entirely from data, eliminating the need for high-definition maps. This self-learning method powers both “eyes on” assisted driving and “eyes off” fully automated driving.
The company intends to license its “Embodied AI” to automakers and technology firms. Because its system works with existing sensors like cameras and radar, it reduces dependency on costly specialized hardware. As a result, automakers view it as a flexible and scalable solution. Importantly, Wayve’s software has been designed to run on chips already integrated into vehicles, further enhancing compatibility.
Partnership and Future Development
Wayve has maintained a close development relationship with Nvidia since 2018. Its second-generation platform, used in Ford Mach E test vehicles, relies on Nvidia GPUs. This week, Wayve unveiled its third-generation platform, which uses Nvidia’s Drive AGX Thor system. The new platform is expected to enable advanced driver-assistance and Level 4 autonomy across both highways and city streets.
The collaboration highlights Nvidia’s growing interest in Wayve’s future. During a recent test drive in London, Huang experienced the technology firsthand while touring busy city streets. The demonstration underscored the potential of Wayve’s system and Nvidia’s role in supporting its growth. With customer-ready technology and growing financial backing, Wayve is positioning itself as a key player in next-generation autonomous mobility.
