Volkswagen ends partnership with Aurora

The German automaker has turned its sights to a new collaboration with Ford to develop autonomous tech.

Volkswagen has confirmed that it has ended its partnership with autonomous technology startup Aurora.

With more than $500 million in funding, Aurora is developing software and hardware for self-driving cars. The company still maintains collaboration with several other major automakers including Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Hyundai.

The breakup with Ford, first reported by Financial Times, coincides with reports pointing to an autonomous-vehicle collaboration between Ford and Volkswagen. The Blue Oval in 2017 invested $1 billion for a controlling stake in Aurora rival Argo AI.

"As the Driver matures and our platform grows in strength, we continue to work with a growing array of partners who complement our expertise and expand the reach of our product," Aurora said in a statement, aligning with Ford's confirmation that the relationship had concluded.