Pony AI Stock Surges Amid Acquisition Talks with Uber and Travis Kalanick

Pony AI (PONY) shares jumped nearly 12% following reports of preliminary acquisition discussions between Uber Technologies (UBER) and its former CEO Travis Kalanick. The potential deal targets Pony.ai's U.S. autonomous driving operations, marking Kalanick's potential re-entry into the self-driving sector since his 2017 departure from Uber.

Market analysts suggest any transaction would likely value below $500 million, given Pony.ai's limited U.S. revenue streams. Uber's stock gained 2% on the news, signaling investor Optimism about the ride-hailing giant's expanded ambitions in AI-powered mobility solutions.

The development highlights ongoing consolidation in autonomous vehicle technology, with legacy transport players increasingly aligning with specialized AI firms. Kalanick's simultaneous leadership of CloudKitchens suggests a strategic rather than operational role in any Pony.ai acquisition.