Self-driving startup leader departs after DMV permit suspension and layoffs, apologizing for “situation Cruise is in today” as board focuses on rebuilding public trust.
Kyle Vogt has resigned as CEO of self-driving startup Cruise after recent turmoil including permit suspension and layoffs, apologizing for “the situation Cruise is in today” as the board now focuses on rebuilding public trust under new leadership following the loss of its longtime leader who co-founded Cruise in 2013 and led its growth and acquisition by GM.
Cruise in Transition
According to an email sent to employees on Sunday, Kyle Vogt, co-founder and CEO of self-driving company Cruise, has resigned. Vogt led Cruise from its early days as a startup to its acquisition and ownership by General Motors.
Vogt’s departure comes amid recent turmoil for Cruise. Last month, California’s DMV suspended Cruise’s permits to test driverless vehicles after an incident where a Cruise AV hit and dragged a pedestrian.
From the Helm to New Horizons
In his resignation email, Vogt expressed pride in Cruise’s progress but said he is “deeply saddened” to no longer work with the team. No new permanent CEO has been named yet.
Cruise board chair and GM CEO Mary Barra thanked Vogt for his “tremendous vision and dedication.” But she emphasized rebuilding public trust and safety as top priorities moving forward.
End of an Era
Morale at Cruise has suffered since the October incident and subsequent fallout like layoffs. Vogt apologized to the staff for “the situation Cruise is in today.”
Vogt co-founded Cruise in 2013, initially focusing on self-driving kits before pivoting and attracting GM’s acquisition. He previously co-founded live streaming companies Justin. tv and Twitch.
While a blow, Vogt’s exit clears the way for Cruise to reshape its culture and rebuild confidence under new leadership during this challenging transitional period.
