Trucks VC, a San Francisco-based VC firm specializing in transportation innovation, has launched its third and largest fund to date—$70 million USD.
The firm aims to support early-stage startups redefining the future of mobility, from autonomous vehicles to aviation and sustainable logistics.
Strategic Investment Approach
Trucks VC plans to deploy the fund across 30 seed and pre-seed investments, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million USD. The firm typically seeks 10% ownership stakes in portfolio companies.
Reilly Brennan, Co-Founder of Trucks VC, emphasized the firm’s focus on collaborating with exceptional founders:
“Our goal is to engage with the best entrepreneurs early, without rigidly adhering to predefined sectors. Instead of filling quotas for specific technologies, we prioritize innovative ideas brought by visionary founders.”
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Key Investments from Fund III
Trucks VC has already invested in several groundbreaking companies, including:
- Treehouse: Offering charger installation as a service.
- JetZero: A zero-emissions jet aircraft startup.
- Auriga Space: Focused on high-frequency kinetic launches.
- Carvis: Developing an AI-driven tool to support mechanics.
A Refined Investment Strategy
Since its founding in 2014, Trucks VC has evolved its approach. Initially focused on generating ideas and finding founders to execute them, the firm now emphasizes identifying great founders who bring new and disruptive concepts to the table.
This pivot has allowed Trucks VC to explore sectors like aviation and aerospace, expanding beyond its original mobility-focused mission.
Previous Successes
Trucks VC has a proven track record with investments in companies such as:
- Bear Flag Robotics: Acquired by John Deere.
- Zendrive: Purchased by Intuit.
- Joby Aviation, Gatik, and Skyryse: Leaders in autonomous and aviation technologies.
Backed by Strategic Investors
The $70 million fund includes contributions from seven strategic limited partners, including an automotive supplier, tire manufacturer, insurance company, and airline carrier, further emphasizing the fund’s industry relevance.
With this new fund, Trucks VC is positioned to discover and support the next wave of transformative startups in the global transportation and mobility sectors.
