DoorDash is doubling down on the future of last-mile logistics with a major strategic investment and partnership in Also, the electric micromobility startup spun out of Rivian. The delivery giant participated in Also’s $200 million Series C funding round, which values the Palo Alto-based company at over $1 billion and brings its total funding to more than $500 million.
The round was led by Greenoaks Capital with additional participation from Prysm Capital. Beyond the financial backing, the two companies signed a multi-year commercial agreement to jointly develop and deploy purpose-built autonomous small electric vehicles designed specifically for urban delivery routes. DoorDash co-founder and Head of DoorDash Labs, Stanley Tang, will join Also’s board as an observer, signaling deep collaboration.
Also, originally developed inside Rivian and spun out in 2025, specializes in compact, capable electric vehicles for goods and passenger transport. Its lineup includes electric cargo bikes and quadricycles optimized for logistics, featuring weather protection, generous cargo capacity, and designs suited for dense city environments. The partnership focuses on evolving these platforms into fully autonomous delivery solutions that can operate efficiently without human drivers, addressing rising labor costs and scaling challenges in the gig economy.
This move marks a significant step for DoorDash as it seeks to reduce reliance on human dashers for routine deliveries while improving speed, reliability, and cost efficiency. Autonomous vehicles could handle high-volume, short-distance orders in congested urban areas where traditional cars or bikes face limitations. The collaboration aims to accelerate real-world deployment, starting with pilot programs and scaling to broader integration across DoorDash’s network.
For Also, the deal provides not only capital but also a major commercial partner and validation of its technology. The startup has already attracted attention from other big players, including Amazon, which previously committed to purchasing thousands of its pedal-assist cargo vehicles. Reaching unicorn status at $1 billion valuation underscores growing investor confidence in small-form electric vehicles as a practical solution for sustainable last-mile delivery.
The timing aligns with broader industry trends toward electrification and automation in logistics. Rising operational costs, driver shortages, and environmental regulations are pushing companies to explore innovative alternatives to traditional delivery models. Small EVs offer advantages in maneuverability, lower energy consumption, and reduced emissions compared to larger vans or gas-powered options.
Analysts view the partnership as a win-win that could reshape urban delivery dynamics. DoorDash gains access to tailored autonomous technology developed with its specific needs in mind, while Also benefits from DoorDash’s vast operational data, market reach, and expertise in scaling delivery services. Early focus areas likely include safety systems, navigation in complex city environments, integration with DoorDash’s app and dispatch platforms, and regulatory compliance for autonomous operations.
As cities worldwide grapple with traffic congestion and sustainability goals, compact autonomous delivery vehicles could play a key role in reducing road clutter and carbon footprints. Also’s designs emphasize practicality for narrow streets, bike lanes, and pedestrian-heavy zones where larger autonomous robots or drones might struggle.
This announcement comes amid DoorDash’s ongoing expansion beyond food into groceries, retail, and other categories, where efficient logistics become even more critical. By investing directly in the underlying technology, the company positions itself to lead rather than follow in the shift toward automated delivery.
For consumers, the long-term vision includes faster, more consistent service with fewer delays caused by traffic or driver availability. For restaurants and merchants partnered with DoorDash, it could mean lower fees and broader reach as operational efficiencies improve.
While full-scale autonomous deployment will require time for testing, regulatory approvals, and technological refinement, the DoorDash-Also partnership represents a concrete commitment to making that future a reality. With substantial funding secured and a clear roadmap for collaboration, the initiative could accelerate the adoption of small autonomous EVs across the delivery sector.
As the companies begin joint development work, the industry will watch closely to see how quickly these purpose-built vehicles transition from concept to widespread use on city streets. This deal highlights how strategic investments in emerging mobility startups are becoming essential for established platforms looking to innovate and stay competitive in an increasingly automated world.
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