Top 22 automotive startups leading the way in 2025

Top automotive startups

Complete list of automotive startups that are worth knowing:

TrueMotion

Founded in 2012, TrueMotion is a leading platform that uses smartphone data to provide insights into driving behavior. The company has the world’s largest driving data set based solely on smartphones. The TrueMotion app runs quietly in the background to collect sensor information and other driving data.

TrueMotion’s proprietary software and machine learning algorithms analyze this data to generate safety and insurance insights for fleets and individual drivers. Features include customized scoring and coaching for risky driving maneuvers, accident detection and response, insights based on weather and road conditions, and individualized insurance pricing models. TrueMotion aims to make roads safer while making insurance fairer by using only the power of the smartphone.

Lucid Motors

Lucid Motors is an electric vehicle company advancing sustainable transportation through innovative design and engineering. Unlike traditional automakers, Lucid is solely focused on manufacturing premium all-electric cars that deliver new standards in efficiency, luxury, and performance. Leveraging in-house technological advancements in battery packs, power trains, and software, Lucid vehicles achieve previously unattainable ultra-long ranges while providing an elevated driving experience.

By concentrating its expertise exclusively on electric powertrains and high-end EV manufacturing, the company creates luxury sustainable mobility products fitting for the contemporary era. From their cutting-edge electric sedan to future vehicle lines, Lucid Motors aims to shape the future landscape of green automotive excellence through advanced proprietary technologies.

ChargePoint

Founded in 2007, ChargePoint built an EV charging network empowering driver adoption. Their stations provide convenient charging for public, fleet and residential settings.

ChargePoint serves businesses, utilities and drivers globally. Customers rely on their leading network and innovations to expand EV infrastructure. The technology aims to deliver seamless, scalable charging access.

Pony.ai

Founded in 2016, Pony.ai focuses on developing safe, accessible self-driving technology. Their software platform integrates AI, sensors and operational capabilities.

Pony.ai collaborates with automakers, shippers and governments globally. Partners rely on their technology to enable driverless mobility and delivery. The solutions aim to make autonomous transportation widely accessible.

Cruise

Founded in 2013, Cruise aims to deliver autonomous technology that expands access and safety. Their software platform integrates AI, sensors and operational capabilities.

Cruise partners with automakers and services globally. Collaborators leverage their leading technology to launch self-driving offerings at scale. The solutions aim to make driverless transportation mainstream.

Embark

Founded in 2016, Embark develops autonomous trucks to make road freight safer and more efficient. Their software platform integrates sensors, AI and logistics integrations.

Embark partners with shippers, carriers and fleet owners globally. Collaborators utilize their technology to enable hands-free highway driving and optimize operations. The solutions aim to transform trucking services.

Sonatus

Founded in 2018, Sonatus provides an agile software platform unifying in-vehicle and cloud systems. Their software integrates ADAS, telematics, diagnostics and more.

Sonatus partners with automakers globally. Partners utilize their unified approach to deploy smart, upgradeable architectures and systems. The solutions aim to enable continuous innovation.

Tekion

Founded in 2016, Tekion is focused on bringing advanced digital capabilities to automotive dealerships. Their software integrates sales, F&I, service and marketing on one platform.

Tekion partners with dealer groups globally. Partners utilize the cloud technology to optimize operations, gain insights and enhance consumer experiences. The platform aims to digitally transform automotive retail.

Cepton

Founded in 2016, Cepton Technologies makes high-performance, mass-market lidar sensors. Their lidars integrate proprietary imaging and AI software.

Cepton Technologies partners with automotive OEMs, AV developers and smart infrastructure firms globally. Collaborators utilize their lidars for advanced perception and 3D mapping. The solutions aim to enable safe autonomy and smarter spaces.

Ridecell

Founded in 2009, Ridecell provides cloud-based platforms automating and optimizing shared mobility services. Their software manages fleets, drivers, and end-user apps.

Ridecell serves car rental firms, OEMs, dealers and automotive startups globally. Customers rely on their expertise to launch and scale innovative mobility services. The platforms aim to power the future of transportation.

Nauto

Founded in 2015, Nauto developed AI that understands driver behavior and vehicle context. Their software analyzes in-cabin and contextual data to reduce collisions.

Nauto partners with insurers, fleets and automakers globally. Collaborators leverage their technology for real-time driver coaching and risk assessment. The solutions aim to curb accidents and bolster safety.

TrueCar

Founded in 2005, TrueCar brings more transparency and efficiency to car buying through data and technology. Their platform provides pricing insights and an online marketplace.

TrueCar partners with dealers and OEMs across the US. Partners benefit from exposure to informed, empowered car buyers on the TrueCar platform. The technology aims to build trust in the car buying process.

Phantom Auto

Founded in 2017, Phantom Auto develops teleoperation technology to advance driverless capabilities. Their software allows remote drivers to steer vehicles from afar.

Phantom Auto partners with autonomous trucking, logistics and EV companies globally. Partners employ their teleoperation to enhance remote monitoring, operation and assistance. The platform aims to expand autonomy’s potential.

Canoo

Founded in 2017, Canoo reimagines EV design through their customizable skateboard platform. Their technology integrates motors, batteries and electronics in a flat chassis.

Canoo is partnering with automakers and suppliers globally. Partners utilize their skateboard platform to electrify vehicles cost-effectively. The modular design enables rapid customization.

Aperia

Founded in 2012, Aperia focueses on developing technology that optimizes tire pressure in real time. Their devices continually maintain proper inflation while driving.

Aperia partners with fleets, trucks and trailers globally. Partners install their tire inflation technology to reduce blowouts, increase fuel economy and prevent breakdowns. The devices aim to maximize uptime and lower costs.

Sight Machine

Founded in 2011, Sight Machine transforms manufacturing with AI-driven insights. Their software analyzes production line data to optimize processes.

Sight Machine serves manufacturers globally across industries. Customers leverage the platform to improve quality, reduce downtime and boost efficiency. The insights aim to maximize productivity and quality control.

AutoFi

Founded in 2015, AutoFi provides digital F&I capabilities enabling online vehicle purchases. Their software streamlines credit, financing, insurance and other car-buying requirements.

AutoFi partners with dealers and lenders across the US. Partners utilize the platform to incorporate financing solutions into online sales. The software aims to deliver seamless, end-to-end car buying functionality.

HyreCar

Founded in 2014, HyreCar leverages unused vehicles to facilitate rideshare driving. Their platform matches owners with Uber, Lyft and delivery drivers needing vehicles.

HyreCar serves rideshare drivers across the US. Drivers access vehicles from a wider selection of models and locations. Owners earn income from idle assets. The platform aims to provide reliable, mutually beneficial car access.

HONK

Founded in 2013, HONK delivers rapid, reliable roadside help through their digital platform and network of tow truck partners. Their app summons assistance using location-based driver matching.

HONK serves stranded drivers across the US and Canada. Users secure fast, tracked assistance with minimal hassle. The platform aims to make roadside help seamless while offering revenue opportunities to towing partners.

Edmunds

Founded in 1966 as a car information provider, Edmunds is focused on bringing comprehensive automotive data and reviews to consumers. Their platform offers pricing, comparisons, articles and more.

Edmunds serves online car shoppers across the US. Users access unbiased insights, inventory and price guidance to inform purchase decisions. The platform aims to make car buying efficient, empowered and hassle-free.

Ample

Founded in 2014, Ample developed an automated, rapidly scalable EV charging solution. Their system uses robot battery swapping to enable quick charging.

Ample partners with fleets, taxis, and rideshare companies globally. Partners employ the robotic charging to maximize uptime and utilization. The solution aims to make EVs as fast and convenient as gas vehicles.

Driveway

Founded in 2019, Driveway brings telematics insights to everyday auto insurance. Their mobile app analyzes individual driving to provide feedback and savings.

Driveway partners with insurers across the US. Partners integrate the app to motivate and verify safe driving for discounted, usage-based policies. The technology aims to make roads safer while rewarding prudent drivers.

Conclusion

It’s too early to tell whether startups will realize their full potential or if traditional giants will hold onto pole position. But one thing is certain – with these new players accelerating innovation, the roads ahead promise to take us into exciting, uncharted territory.