From TechCrunch · Kirsten Korosec · · 1m 30s
Waymo's ex-CFO joins self-driving startup Wayve
Elisa de Martel brings deep tech finance experience as the startup prepares to deploy its automated driving technology.
In brief
Elisa de Martel brings deep tech finance experience as the startup prepares to deploy its automated driving technology. Wayve hired Waymo's former CFO as it transitions from testing to commercial deployment of its self-learning automated driving software. Originally reported by TechCrunch.
Waymo's CFO moves to Wayve
Elisa de Martel, who was CFO at Alphabet's Waymo, has been hired to the same position at self-driving startup Wayve.
From testing to deployment
The CFO appointment comes as Wayve moves from development to deploying its automated driving tech in robotaxis and passenger vehicles.
Deep tech finance background
De Martel was CFO at Carbon and spent 11 years at Apple. She led Waymo's finances from 2022 to January 2026 during its commercial expansion.
Self-learning software approach
Wayve's tech uses an end-to-end neural network that doesn't rely on high-definition maps or custom hardware, only data to teach driving.
Two product lines
The company offers an "eyes on" assisted-driving system and an "eyes off" fully automated system for robotaxis or consumer vehicles.
Major funding and partnerships
Wayve has raised $3.2 billion and partnered with Nissan, Stellantis, and Uber. It's valued at about $8.5 billion.
Public rides already launched
Wayve recently launched public rides in London with a safety operator on board. Tokyo deployment is expected to follow soon.
The challenge ahead
The company must now push past limited early deployment and become a high-volume supplier to the automotive industry.
The key point
Wayve hired Waymo's former CFO as it transitions from testing to commercial deployment of its self-learning automated driving software.
