Roy Uhlmann (MOTOR Ai)

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Overview

Roy Uhlmann is a notable entrepreneur and the CEO and co-founder of MOTOR Ai, a company based in Berlin, Germany. MOTOR Ai is a pioneering firm in the field of autonomous driving technology, focusing on developing AI systems that are explainable, safe, and comply with stringent European regulations. Uhlmann, recognized for his expertise in neural networks and artificial intelligence, has been instrumental in advancing MOTOR Ai's mission to develop the first certified autonomous vehicle fleet for Europe. His approach emphasizes transparency and compliance with regulations, distinguishing MOTOR Ai from other global competitors.

Recent Developments

In 2025, MOTOR Ai, under the leadership of Roy Uhlmann, secured a significant milestone in its growth:

  • July 2025: MOTOR Ai announced a $20 million seed funding round, aimed at accelerating the deployment of its Level 4 autonomous driving technology, which is set to be rolled out on European roads by 2026. The funding round was led by Segenia Capital and eCAPITAL, with participation from high-net-worth individuals focused on mobility and technology sectors. This capital injection is designated for the final steps towards obtaining type approval for public roads under Europe's rigorous regulatory framework.
  • The company's approach centers on a neuroscience-based active inference model that allows vehicles to make structured, transparent decisions. This focus on explainability is particularly crucial in Europe, where the EU AI Act and other regulatory frameworks demand clear and documentable decision-making processes for autonomous systems.
  • Throughout 2025, MOTOR Ai has been preparing for the initial deployment of its technology on German public roads, with safety drivers initially on board, aiming for full autonomy by 2026.
  • The company's strategy includes retrofitting its software to existing vehicles, particularly a Mercedes minivan, to provide on-demand public transport services in both urban and rural settings.
  • MOTOR Ai's development over the years has included substantial collaboration with German federal certifiers to ensure compliance with numerous international safety standards, including ISO 26262, UNECE regulations, and the EU AI Act.

Personal Information

AttributeInformation
Full NameRoy Uhlmann
BornNot publicly available
NationalityGerman
OccupationCEO and Co-founder of MOTOR Ai
Known ForDevelopment of AI systems for autonomous driving
Net WorthNot publicly available
EducationStudied law before pursuing a career in artificial intelligence

Early Life and Education

Roy Uhlmann began his career with an educational background in law before transitioning into the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence. His interest in technology and data-driven business models led him to establish his first AI company in 2007. Over the years, Uhlmann has become a prominent figure in the field, particularly for his work in neural networks and AI-based solutions for the automotive industry. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future endeavors, culminating in the establishment of MOTOR Ai in 2017. His ability to merge legal knowledge with technological innovation has been a significant asset in navigating regulatory landscapes, especially within the EU.

Career and Notable Achievements

Roy Uhlmann's professional journey is marked by several significant accomplishments:

  • 2007-2017: Uhlmann founded and led multiple startups focused on AI and data-driven technologies, gaining experience and establishing a reputation as a successful serial entrepreneur.
  • 2017: Co-founded MOTOR Ai alongside Adam Bahlke, with the aim of revolutionizing the autonomous driving sector in Europe by focusing on transparency and regulatory compliance.
  • Present (2025): Under Uhlmann's leadership, MOTOR Ai has become a front-runner in the development of Level 4 autonomous vehicles, meeting the most stringent safety and compliance standards in Europe.
  • Key Milestones:
    • Established MOTOR Ai’s full-stack autonomy platform, rooted in neuroscience-based cognitive intelligence.
    • Secured significant funding rounds to propel the company's technological and regulatory advancements.
    • Pioneered the development of autonomous vehicles tailored for European markets, aligning with strict regulatory requirements for transparency and safety.

Current Work and Impact

Currently, Roy Uhlmann, through MOTOR Ai, is driving the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles that meet Europe's demanding regulatory standards. The company's technology is noted for its ability to explain decision-making processes, which is critical in gaining the trust of regulators and the public. Uhlmann's work is set to have a substantial impact on the way autonomous vehicles are integrated into European infrastructure, potentially setting new standards for safety and accountability in the industry. His strategic vision for MOTOR Ai underscores a commitment to innovation, public trust, and technological sovereignty, positioning the company to lead in the autonomous driving space.

Conclusion

Roy Uhlmann has carved a significant niche within the realm of autonomous driving technology, particularly in Europe. By emphasizing transparency and regulatory compliance, he and MOTOR Ai are set to transform how autonomous systems are adopted and utilized. As the company gears up for significant deployments in Germany and potentially other European markets, Uhlmann's vision for a transparent and explainable AI platform could redefine the industry's future standards. His contributions are likely to drive progress in both technological development and regulatory policy, setting a precedent for future advancements in autonomous vehicle technologies.

References

  1. MOTOR Ai Raises $20M in Funding
  2. MOTOR Ai Bets €20m On Transparent Autonomy
  3. Berlin-Based MOTOR Ai Secures $20 Million
  4. Inside The Race To Put Fully Autonomous Vehicles On EU Roads
  5. Driverless Cars Planned for European Roads in 2026