TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Autonomous Transportation Leaders Unite

As the world hurtles towards a future where transportation is increasingly autonomous, electrified, and connected, the stage was set for a thrilling conversation at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. Amidst the buzz of innovation and entrepreneurship, a group of high-profile executives and founders gathered to share their visions for the future of mobility. From the co-CEOs of Waymo to the founder of Wayve, these pioneers of transportation technology are shaping the course of human history. Behind the scenes, a quiet revolution is underway. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on electric vehicles (EVs), the need for innovative accessories and services is growing. Slate Auto, a startup that's making waves in the EV space, is taking a bold approach to addressing this need. By designing, manufacturing, and selling accessories for its EVs, Slate is not only enhancing the user experience but also empowering owners to take control of their vehicles like never before. "We want to give our customers the ability to customize their vehicles in a way that's never been possible before," says Chris Barman, CEO of Slate Auto. "We're not just talking about aesthetic changes; we're talking about functional upgrades that can improve the safety, efficiency, and overall performance of the vehicle." But Slate's vision goes beyond just hardware. The company is also committed to sharing data with its customers, allowing them to make informed decisions about their vehicles and even sell their own custom designs to others. This approach is not only democratizing the EV market but also creating a new economy around vehicle customization. "We're not just a manufacturer; we're a platform," explains Barman. "We're giving our customers the tools and the data they need to take control of their vehicles and create a community around them." This approach has significant implications for the future of transportation. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on EVs, the need for innovative accessories and services will only continue to grow. By empowering owners to take control of their vehicles, Slate is not only enhancing the user experience but also creating a new model for the automotive industry. But Slate is not alone in its vision for the future of mobility. Other companies, like Waymo and Nuro, are also pushing the boundaries of what's possible with autonomous vehicles. Waymo's co-CEO, Tekedra Mawakana, is leading the charge in the development of Level 4 and Level 5 autonomous vehicles, which can operate without human intervention. "We're not just talking about autonomous vehicles; we're talking about a new paradigm for transportation," says Mawakana. "We're creating a system that's safe, efficient, and accessible to everyone." As the world hurtles towards a future where transportation is increasingly autonomous, electrified, and connected, the stage is set for a thrilling conversation. With companies like Slate, Waymo, and Nuro leading the charge, the future of mobility is looking brighter than ever. But as we look to the future, it's clear that the implications of these technologies will be far-reaching. From the impact on employment to the potential for increased accessibility, the future of mobility is a complex and multifaceted issue. As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, it's essential that we consider the human element and the societal implications of these technologies. As Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak AI, notes, "The future of mobility is not just about the technology; it's about the people and the communities that will be impacted by it." As we look to the future, it's clear that the conversation around mobility is only just beginning. With companies like Slate, Waymo, and Nuro leading the charge, the possibilities are endless. But as we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, it's essential that we consider the human element and the societal implications of these technologies. The future of mobility is a complex and multifaceted issue, and it's up to us to shape its course.