AV Startup Pronto.ai Acquires Off-Road Autonomous Vehicle Rival SafeAI

Kirsten Korosec | July 15, 2025

Introduction

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), self-driving technology, and specialized industries like mining and construction is a niche but rapidly growing field. Pronto.ai, a San Francisco-based startup focused on developing AI-powered autonomous systems for haulage trucks and other off-road vehicles, has acquired its competitor SafeAI. This strategic move aims to consolidate talent and technology, accelerating the development and deployment of autonomous solutions in these demanding environments.

Pronto.ai's Vision and Technology

Pronto.ai, co-founded by Anthony Levandowski and Ognen Stojanovski in 2018, specializes in creating autonomous driving systems for heavy-duty, off-road vehicles. Their approach leverages advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to enable autonomous operation in challenging conditions. A key component of Pronto's infrastructure is Pollen Mobile, a peer-to-peer open-source mobile data network launched in 2022. Pollen Mobile allows Pronto to exchange data anonymously and at high speeds, even in areas with limited or no traditional connectivity, which is crucial for remote mining and construction sites. Pronto has maintained a lean team of approximately 40 people. The company has established significant partnerships, including an extended collaboration with Heidelberg Materials North America, a major player in the building materials and cement industry. Following a successful pilot program at Heidelberg's Bridgeport Quarry in Texas, Pronto's technology is integrated into Komatsu haulage trucks, enabling autonomous operations. Earlier in 2025, Pronto announced a global agreement with Heidelberg to deploy over 100 autonomous trucks and expand its operations into Brazil.

The Acquisition of SafeAI

SafeAI, founded in 2017, was a direct competitor to Pronto.ai in the autonomous haulage system (AHS) space. The company had raised $38 million in a Series B funding round three years prior. Pronto's acquisition of SafeAI is described as a "talent and technology play." The deal brings SafeAI's engineering team, comprising about 12 individuals, and its intellectual property (IP) over to Pronto. A source familiar with the deal indicated the acquisition price was in the "millions." Levandowski stated that the acquisition was driven by the need to consolidate resources and accelerate growth. He explained, "In the autonomous haulage system space, there’s really kind of two players — it’s SafeAI and us." He added that while both companies approached the market differently, acquiring SafeAI would allow Pronto to "have more wood behind fewer arrows so that we could grow faster."

Technological Synergies and Future Offerings

The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Pronto.ai's technological capabilities and market offerings. Pronto is known for its camera-only approach to autonomous driving. In contrast, SafeAI utilized a multi-sensor approach, incorporating cameras, radar, and lidar. This acquisition allows Pronto to integrate SafeAI's multi-sensor technology and, crucially, its ASIL D-certified safety framework. ASIL D represents the highest Automotive Safety Integrity Level, signifying the most stringent safety standards in the industry. This technological integration will enable Pronto to offer customers a tiered portfolio of solutions: * Camera-Only Approach: Pronto's established system, known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in certain environments. * Multi-Sensor Approach: Leveraging SafeAI's technology, offering enhanced perception and redundancy through the integration of lidar and radar alongside cameras. This approach is generally considered more robust in diverse and challenging conditions. The acquisition also positions Pronto to meet a wider range of customer needs, from smaller quarries to larger, more complex mining operations, both domestically and internationally.

Market Context and Strategic Importance

The autonomous vehicle market, particularly in specialized sectors like mining and construction, is characterized by high capital investment, stringent safety requirements, and the need for robust, reliable technology. Companies like Pronto.ai and SafeAI operate in a segment where precision, safety, and operational efficiency are paramount. The consolidation through this acquisition reflects a broader trend in the technology sector, where companies merge to gain competitive advantages, acquire critical talent, and achieve economies of scale. By integrating SafeAI's assets, Pronto.ai strengthens its position as a leading player in the autonomous haulage system market. The focus on ASIL D certification underscores the commitment to safety, a non-negotiable aspect for heavy machinery operating in potentially hazardous environments.

Conclusion

The acquisition of SafeAI by Pronto.ai marks a significant milestone for both companies and the broader autonomous vehicle industry. It signifies a strategic consolidation aimed at accelerating technological development, expanding market reach, and enhancing safety standards in off-road autonomous operations. With the combined expertise and technology, Pronto.ai is poised to further solidify its leadership in the autonomous haulage system sector, driving innovation and efficiency in the mining and construction industries. --- Image: ![Construction vehicles](https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pronto-safe-acquisition.jpg?w=1024) Image Credits: Pronto.ai --- Topics: * [Anthony Levandowski](https://techcrunch.com/tag/anthony-levandowski/) * [Exclusive](https://techcrunch.com/tag/exclusive/) * [pronto.ai](https://techcrunch.com/tag/pronto-ai/) * [Transportation](https://techcrunch.com/category/transportation/)