Michigan-based AV startup May Mobility reduces workforce by 13%

Ann Arbor-based autonomous vehicle company May Mobility reduced its workforce by about 13%, the company confirmed Thursday.

"As we strive to achieve our mission, we’re taking proactive and strategic steps to increase our focus on the company’s highest business priorities," the company said in a statement to The Detroit News. "We are grateful to everyone who has worked to make May Mobility a leader in autonomous vehicle technology. We’re providing compensation, health insurance and tools to support those affected to help them find new career opportunities."

The layoffs come after the AV company in November said it closed a $105 million Series D round, bringing its total funding to about $300 million.

More:Meet the Ann Arbor autonomous vehicle company looking to shake things up

The funding supported growth in its technology and services in the United States, Canada and Japan beyond its current 12 cities on the way toward profitability. Japanese telecommunications company NTT Group led the round.

The job reductions at May Mobility come amid troubles at other autonomous vehicle companies.

General Motors Co.'s Cruise LLC unit embattled autonomous vehicle unit this week named "experienced automotive safety leader" Steve Kenner chief safety officer as it works to regain public and government trust after an October pedestrian crash that triggered the suspension of Cruise services and inquiries by the U.S. Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Waymo LLC is running into resistance in California to its bid to expand its robotaxi service to areas outside San Francisco. A Waymo vehicle struck a cyclist last week in the a San Francisco neighborhood, resulting in minor injuries, the Verge reported.

khall@detroitnews.com

@bykaleahall